A "few years" ago (actually in the early 70's), I was in the Navy and had a passing interest in coin collecting. One of my areas of particular interest was Indian Head cents. I managed to get a 1909S back then...and it's been "stored" in the closet for quite a few years. Ran across it the other day while cleaning and sorting. No idea what the "official" condition/grade is...nor how much it might be worth these days. So, I figure THIS might be the right forum to pose those two questions (what is it's "official" condition/grade and how much it might be worth). Feedback/comments certainly welcomed. If you'd like to have the original scans, please feel free to edited to remove email address PM Many thanks in advance! View attachment 172942
Let's see the front of the coin. Usually the telling devices on the obverse will generate a better estimate for grade. The reverse looks good though, I'm going to give it a preliminary grade of Fine.
Not sure why the other coin scan doesn't show up (actually, it does if you click on the "attachment 172942"). But, here it is:
Ah, very nice. Now I can comfortably say that this looks like a VF now. Full liberty in the headband and a couple diamonds on the ribbon.
I'm no expert by far, but for coins, I believe pictures work better than scans in helping to determine grade. Nice coin though.
Welcome to the forum! I removed your email address for your security. Members can communicate by Personal Message system.Click on their USER ID and see "private message". Yours will begin to work after 10 posts, again to discourage spambots and trolls. Jim
I'd say EF35 or 40 . My BlueBook (which I use for buying) lists that grade as $400. nice one. I'm bidding on one right now in worse shape
Also,you can check out WWW.numismedia.com I'm sure the prices there are a little inflated,but it should give you an idea of value. Your coin is definitely a key date!
Probably around XF40 but hard to tell from the photo, but it does look like the ribbon is separated from the lower hair curl which is traditionally the difference between VF and XF. Either way, it's worth between $500-$600.
I'm sure you are using a low res scan? If you go ontl the scanning settings, you should be able to make the resolution of the scan higher. But that might not be necessary because some others have gave their opinions. Illini is the main man with the IHCs (In my opinion) and I agree with his grade. Congrats on the re-discovery!
And lighten the contrast a little so it's not too dark as well. But I agree, if you're going to unearth any coin, an 09-S Indian is the cream 'o' the crop!
