Nice coin, Lance!!! That's the first 77 I have ever seen with an "almost complete" reverse. I can finally see what they looked like before they degraded!!! The only ones I have ever seen before were fake... this is way cool! thanks for posting it!!!
I ran across this old thread searching for an 1877. Most of you seem to really like dealing with Angel Dee's. I have run across their coins many times in the past, but I have always been reluctant to buy any because they always say "we are unable to provide pictures". Do you all buy coins from them sight unseen, or do you just trust them that much? I know they take returns like most dealers, but I have found returning coins a hassle and would rather see a detailed image up front. I am asking because I have always found many IHC I wanted to buy from them, but I never have because they don't post images..thanks
It is too bad Andy doesn't have photos. I have talked with him many times about this. I have come to simply trust his opinion. He is very straight about his coins and he'll give you the pro's and con's. Of the dozens he has sent me I only returned two, and both times he said he had reservations about them and he was right. I see Andy and his coins at a show every year and I am always reminded of his high standards. They may seem more expensive but I will always pay more for quality. Last night he threw a dinner party for 16 of his customers at a great restaurant in Santa Clara. Very generous. And we did a fun show and tell. Today I'm off to the show and I'm sure I'll come back with a new addition. I'll share it here. Lance.
I’m not an expert on the 1877, but I did a little research before I bought mine. I believe I read the tell tail weak N (in ONE) is found on all genuine business strikes, yet there are a few proof examples that exhibit a strong N. Your 1877 may be a proof - although there is the slightest weakness, which may be an early business strike.
I've got all the holes filled, but they are mostly g4's through vf20's. I don't have the 1856 (I use the Dansco album).