Going by what I see (angle/toning & square 2) I'd venture a AU-53 grade and a value of around $300-$350. A very nice/pretty coin. I would like to see a regular (head on) picture if you've got one though. Thanks for posting the pictures Ben
I'd say XF45 based on details. But those marks on the obverse are bad enough I'm afraid they would be considered as damage and if submitted for grading the coin would be body bagged.
Ok, stupid question because I think I know the answer. Do you think this coins was cleaned. With the ware and then the black around some letters on the reverse and stars on the obverse it looks cleaned. Everyone including n_sandler4 probably knows the answer except for me. I always wonder what all of you base your grade on - that understanding will only come with more reading and experience. BTW - Very nice coin!
Well, I'm not sure if it was cleaned, although I did notice the same thing you did. Oh, and by the way everyone, This is not my coin....I was bidding on it on Ebay, and it's gotten up to $222.50, and I'm just not willing to go any higher I don't think=/
Why would they do what - body bag it ? They would do it because they don't slab damaged coins. Look at the marks I indicated - those aren't bag marks from other coins. That is damage where some sharp object has gouged into the surface of the coin.