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

 

I’d be VF-35 on her. Looks like she’d straight grade to me. Nice coin.

 

I'm with them VF/XF I think it's pocket wear...

 

VF-30

 

There are several major subtypes of Bust Halves. Each subtype has distinctly different element designs and reliefs, and must be graded accordingly. The TPGs are sometimes inconsistent on this, but they try.