Well this is where I will end this post.....as Justin nailed it. His reply is 100 % correct . Now true others gave it a 65 also but didn't elaborate on the reason. To those of you who gave it a 66 or higher how I wish you all were correct....due to value. I didnt loose on this coin as the purchase price was no where near the profits made. This again was another educational piece. The reverse is a luster bomb,as well hammered, 'New die' the obverse not being struck with a fresh die, the luster looks mute not bright, the strike is soft ,and the die has been worked on several times to extend its life. I was still happy with the 65 grade....and the specimen in general. Buffalos are sometimes difficult to grade... knowing the series helps determine if youll be able to pick a gem. There's nothing wrong with a coin struck as such,im sure many would be happy with a 65 grade. But just imagine this coin where the obv.and rev. Were hammered like this ones reverse. I hope you learned something new from this post....I have...we had some very knowlegeable members post to this thread . It is difficult at times to judge a specimen by a photo..... but it helps when others add their knowlege to the thread so all benefit.
I was about to say 65 not having seen the reveal. Only because of the spread between 65 and 66. It appears to be a true 66 coin, but (as the voice of experience) I know how reluctant the TPG are to bump it when the spread is great. Do I agree with that thinking? Of course not. But I'm a realist. A very nice 65.
MS-66+ because of the reverse, is just so crisp. the rim thats showing on the obverse and reverse doesn't show any dings. if the obverse showed as crisp as the reverse then i would have gave it a MS-68
MS-65 and you can take it to the bank! Sorry for my late reply, I was in the air on my way to the United Arab Emirates where I have a client who is wanting me to help them select $2.5M in classic early American gold. And it get's the EdWood bean!