How Would You Grade This 1808 Half Dollar - Bought Raw.

I bought this coin a couple of weeks ago - it came in a large lot of U.S coins.

The photos were taken in direct sunlight, so this probably accentuates every minor surface detail/fault. Still, how would you grade her?


If somebody can throw in an attribution I'd be more than thankful.

 

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About VF-30 to 35, I'd hazard. Maybe an old cleaning and I'm suspicious of what appear to be hairlines on both sides but primarily the obverse.

 

I concur with the gentlemen above.

 

Sunlight tends to be very harsh on coins - every little scratch shows up. My interpretation of the scratches are consistent with normal wear, I don't see cleaning/polish lines.

I'm more suspicious of the dark spots which might just be normal toning, but might be some sort of environmental effect.

And, I concur with the VF-30 grade.

 

These very early Large Bust Halves are almost a stand alone type of coin. I see a prettty nice clasp and significant detail on both Liberty's hair curls and the reverse eagle's feathers. I would guess a grade of VF-30 but will admit many others will have more experience than me. I could be off by a full step in grade. Very nice coin though and i think you are lucky to have her. I find these Lg. Busts very impressive in hand. james

 

I just read the other replies. I feel better knowing I'm in the same ballpark. I don't know what to say about hairlines or chances of straight grading. James