So I bid/won a PCGS PRF69DCAM silver 197-S Ike on Heritage. I didn't notice the "this is a file photo" disclaimer at the bottom, and the coin I received had some ugly spotting on the obverse that was conveniently NOT on the file photo coin. I'm sure it was just a coincidence. Questions: 1. Does this seem to happen often - a file photo that's way off the mark? 2. Would a coin with spotting still qualify as PRF69? I would think it would be hard for the spotting to have occured after the coin was graded... 3. My understanding of PRF69 is that only the tiniest of imperfections are allowed. Am I incorrect or is spotting like toning - allowed? Thanks
It happens way to often in my estimation, more so with online auctions and less with dealer sites and vendors. It would still be a 69, it just will be some with spots. I've even seen some 70 with some residual toning, usually some outside influence gets trapped in those slabs and creates spots or rim toning long after the TPG's seal them. This is why some bullion pieces get milk spots and still grade out 69 and 70. It's kind of the nature of the beast unfortunately.
1. I believe heritage just started using stock photos in the past month or two 2. You can always send it in to PCGS for a spot check/grade review, or even consider returning it to heritage 3. Coins can still tone while in the holder, especially "milk spots", they could have not been there while be graded 4. A picture would be great!
They apparently started using stock photos at least 10/11 (http://coins.ha.com/c/item.zx?saleNo=131142&lotNo=26869). They do accept returns. If the spots are really that noticeable, I would call them up and make sure you get them to pay for the return. That should never happen.
Their return period is 7 days which is over, unfortunately. Not that it would be worth the time, still it's a bit disappointing. I also peeled off all their stupid stickers without destroying the PCGS hologram - about the only plus side on this one. I'll post a picture when I get my camera out, but I'm no photographer for sure. What does a "grade review" do for me/cost? Thanks folks.
File photos are always way off mark. Thats why sellers use them, they have something else that doesn't look quite right and want to get rid of that instead.
I won't buy nor bid on any coin illustrated with a stock photo. It almost invariably leads to getting a problem coin. I learned my lesson the hard way and now I pass on my wisdom to you free of charge.
It certainly has been a 'lessons learned'. 1 - read the damn description fully. 2 - if they're file photos, be prepared to return them if: 3 - make sure there's a return period. Here's a link to the coin. I'm not seeing the eye appeal to make this a 69, but the experts comments are welcome! Thanks for all the replies.
