What would you grade this half cent. I'm thinking around extra fine, but I know nothing about half cents. It has a purple blueish toning to it in hand which I really like.
Looks xf-40 to me. Pics are a little blurry to be more accurate. The reverse appears to be smaller than the obverse. Error!
It means I think the coin has been cleaned and/or the surfaces otherwise messed with. The look of the coin posted by the OP is not a natural look, IMO.
I think you are absolutely correct. It appears to have been recolored. Here is an example I have where it is very obvious.
I also think it cleaned in the past (which may or may not affect grading should you submit it). At least regarding details, I would say 45-50.
Just so nobody gets the wrong idea -- there's nothing wrong about owning a recolored large cent. The VAST majority of old copper has had something done to it, and I own many myself. But as the cliche goes, it is what it is, and the half cent posted by the OP is still a very cool coin. Take care....Mike