Hello! This wonderful 1806 Draped Bust Half Dollar Stem variety, is in the raw, and I am trying to decide on a grade for this. I think it’s a great specimen, with good luster, but not sure on the grade. Perhaps high XF to low AU? Any comments? Thanks!
If the surfaces are not hairlined from cleaning, I would say it will grade AU-55, maybe 58. The strike and resulting sharpness are superior for an 1806 half dollar. Most pieces are softly struck, which was perhaps a way to prolong the life of the dies.
A very nice coin you have there. That coin grades higher than XF in my opinion. I weigh in at certainly AU-53/55. I'd be delighted to have that half in my collection.
This 1806 half dollar is graded AU-58. It has the luster, but not the detail that your piece has. If you coin has as much luster as this piece, it will get a high grade. If doesn't, it will grade a bit lower.
Thats also such a wonderful coin! Thanks for sharing. Just love the Draped Bust design. is it possible to embed videos on Coin Talk? Would be easier to show the luster.
What do you think if it, especially its luster (0:24-0:26), after seeing the video, @ksparrow , @johnmilton ?