This is a great coin. It is totally original with strong strikes on both sides. No carbon spots or any other problems. Is the grade really that important for a coin of this value? I think most collectors would be happy to have this cent in their collection. That's just an opinion of an old collector.
IMO, I would say AU58++ RB The cheek has an ever so slight wear (and maybe the jaw) and the left wheat stalk has a bit of a roll at the top. And I don't think that tone would get a MS grade. The slightest bit of too much brown. And that unfortunate bag mark/nick on the last 9. I'm not sure if that would change the grade or not but its definitely in a bad spot. Silent, that coin is gorgeous. A knock out first coin for the series.
If I'm seeing that cheek wrong and it actually has no flatness to it, I would split the pack and say MS61 RB.
I am thinking a very nice AU-58. I do see the slightest bit of wear of the cheek. But still a great coin!
