MS 63 or 64 for a Saint Gauden?

Note that I didn't even factor seller's fees into my calculation, only buyer's premium -- and while I understand that big sellers can negotiate to get part of the BP, my impression is that it's almost never at a level that would've brought these coins back above water.

Of course, as you were careful to point out, my "knowledge" is limited here.

 

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Lots of good advice.

Determine your max. budget, then find coins that meet it. Then compare them and pick out the best one. Don't be afraid to look for AU58's either. In many cases, you can find an AU58 that looks much nicer than a 63 for a lot less money.

 

I spent a long time at the Philadelphia ANA show a couple years ago looking for a nice 1907 for my collection, either in 63 or 64, knowing that there are nice coins and ratty coins in both holders. After about a day of looking, I found a really nice 64 for less than I was quoted for many in 63 (and 63+). Be patient and you'll get a nice coin while developing an eye for them.

 

Saints are common enough that you can wait untill you see one that makes you say "Wow, that one sure looks nice!". Then, buy that coin.

 

Besides, to me at least, Saint grading is kinda all over the place. Some 65s sure don't look very gemmy, while some some 63s and 64s can look very nice.

 

Signed up with Heritage, will keep my eye on the site.