It appears to be MS64 FB. I don't think you have enough luster to get to MS65 and there is some chatter on the cheek which would also hold it back. Price is $50-$60 range for an uncertified piece.
I like the luster but it does seem to be slightly impaired, and enough to hold it back from a 65. I agree with FB, and would go 64.
That is a very nice 1916. I was feeling pretty proud of myself for pulling a 1917S I grade as VF18 out of a roll of Mercury dimes last night (most in the roll were G4 or lower), then I see yours and I get all depressed again.
Here are the Numismedia Retail jumps in price from MS63 to MS65 FB. MS63 FB: $53 MS64 FB: $78 MS65 FB: $150 If you were LCS and had a raw near gem, what grade would you call it? If you are going to pay basically full retail, you might as well buy one that already resides in an MS65 FB holder. They are pretty common and Heritage offers several each month (usually). I sold a 1916 NGC MS64 FB last month for $80. I did the same thing as LCS and listed it raw on E-Bay for several months without a bite, then I broke down and submitted it to NGC. While disappointed with the grade, it sold quickly and for a decent price. My advice is not to pay above MS64 money for that raw coin.
It was a nice looking coin but yea I don't know if I'd pay 65 prices for a raw coin. How much added value does the FB designation add to the value? seen a 1916-D MS65 FB- almost clicked buy it now. Until I seen it was a cool $57,000!!!
Roll searching is fun. After you fill in the dates you'll probably start to upgrade(like i did). Nothing wrong with circulated coins. 99% of my total coins are circulated.
Since over 90% of 1916 Mercury Dimes have full bands, they don't drive a huge premium. Here are the Numismedia Retail prices for MS63 to MS65 without full bands. MS63: $42 MS64: $60 MS65: $110 Having said that, I would never buy a non full band 1916 Mercury Dime. Who would want to buy it when it comes time to sell it?
I worry about any seller that doesn't have the time or skill to take a quality photograph. They are either trying to hide something or they are not trying hard enough and don't deserve to be rewarded with your money.
I think Paul hit the proverbial nail with his first post when he valued this Merc between $50-$60. Anything more than that you're paying certified price for a raw coin. I think the most I would go on this one would be no higher than $55.
