This is a P-mint coin and they are generally struck better than other mints. I would grade it along the lines of Choice VF, but the TPGs appear to be more concerned with the lower band of LIBERTY and, as such, it has a good chance to go EF40. However, I have no idea what the surfaces really look like in-hand (especially what might be cuts on the face of Ms. Liberty) and this could sway the grade, too.
I'm at VF-35 as well; just a little too much wear on the eagles wings for it to go XF IMO. Though I wouldn't be shocked if it does.
Tom has it. It's certainly very close on the details, I could see it in a 40 holder. But the surfaces are a question. If the scratches are mild, it will probably end up in a 35 holder. My 00P 35 has slightly more wing detail yet slightly less headband from what I remember.
I think it will get the 40 based on the headband as it pretty solid , but I would grade her a 35 based on the reverse and we have to grade it by the weakest side . Also those cuts on Liberty's face bother me so I wonder if she would grade straight .
35. The top two rows of feathers in the eagle's left wing (viewer's right) need to be fully separated for 40, and while very close, they're not quite there on your coin.
My opinion, VF Details. The 3 large cuts/scratches (2 on the face 1 thru the cap), combined with several smaller ones, make it ungradeable.
IMO the scratches on the obverse, three on the face, one through the cap all the way to the rim past the G in GOD will put it in a details holder....VF details.
She looks a lot better in the new pics . So either the last pics accented the scratches or PCGS blew it . I think it was the 1st set of pics that were too big and made the scratches look worse than they really were .
Thanks for the followup. I always welcome chances to improve my grade-from-pics skills on Barber halves. In your experience, how does the market value a VF35 Barber half like this compared to an XF40 or a VF20? Numismedia lists $96 at 20, $210 at 40. I'm not sure my judgement on eye appeal is very well calibrated yet; I don't especially like the color pattern on Liberty's face here, but it's certainly not uncommon on this series.
If you're trying to sell one, VF20 bid. If you're trying to buy one, it's "PQ+++++++++ LOCK UPGRADE!!!!!!!11111" and you'll be asked XF money. (Disclaimer: That was cynical sarcasm, not a market analysis.)
The Barber half market is strong. It's a true collector's coin. I went on an adventure with my uncirculated 1905-P and finally spent the money to have it graded. Even with a details grade - I got a strong price for it - and I dare say that I believe the buyer worked for HA. You will do well with it - just don't be in a rush.
Lol, if you want to sell, common problem coin I'll give you melt. If you are looking to buy XF++++ ultra rare! Key date!
I'll bet it could go EF40 if it had periwinkle. When you market it, say it has subtle, elusive shades of periwinkle. They'll never know, trust me.