The question you should ask yourself and the question I ask myself everytime I buy or look to buy a toned coin is, taking the toning off the coin.... What does it truly look like, or what is the coin worth in that grade and condition... once you figure that out, then the question is how valuable is the toning to you.... It's all subjective and depends on the person. Let's take that coins asking price as an example. Their asking $95, let's say the coin in that grade is worth $75.... Do you value the unique toning adds $20 in value.... Only a question you can answer.
Well, from what I can extrapolate from the best of the images provided. I don't think the toning is too dark. The problem is mostly from the lighting. They used an incandescent main source really close to the coin and a much cooler source further away. I made an attempt to adjust white balance and exposure based on the holder. I would ask your friend if you decided that you didn't like it, once you examined it in hand, if he would accept a return. Personally, I don't think the dime would grade MS-67 if crossed, it might get a 66. The toning looks like it could be decent, but it's really tough to tell from the provided images. I think I would do as @Insider said, pass but offer a possible future price if he decides to part with it. For me the tops that I would be willing to spend on this coin would be around $50.00.
Thanks for the comments eveyone. I think I'd be a buyer at 75 but I think 95 is a little high for the coin. I'm passing for now
It is a very nice and original coin, but I agree with others that 95 is a bit steep. (and this is coming from someone that frequently overpays for nicely toned mercs). 65 would be a reasonable price.
I like that toning. It's your buddy and is your friendship worth such a small amount? Pay him if you like it or haggle with him. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Whoa, I just noticed something, that coin has the most pronounced, clashed die letter transfer I've ever seen on a merc. The toning is making it hard to see but those dies clashed together severely and the mint worker did a terrible job of polishing it out..
Look to the leaves on the reverse (left side) The profile is located there, then, right in front of the axe blade, you will see a D from GOD on the obverse, I'm sure there is more, but the toning is hiding it. I have a feeling there will be more clashed letters there, if u get the coin in-hand Edit-I think I see an O next to the D, which is why I say this is the most pronounced I've seen thus far.... Way cool coin!!!
The letter he's talking about is touching the axe blade right above the topmost leaf. I had to reorient my brain ( ) to see it, but it's there.
Neat! Still, without seeing that toning in hand I'm afraid it's a hair too dark. It is a cool coin though
My experience with war year common date Mercury Dimes is that even if they have dramatic rainbow toning, they are very difficult to sell without full bands. And while the toning on this coin might be considered attractive, it is nothing that I would pay a significant premium for. There are just too many of these coins with real rainbow toning and full bands to consider paying premiums for coins like this one. I know that others are recommending a lower price than $95. My recommendation is to pass completely and find a better coin.