This is really the way it looks - a lively coin. However, the reverse is very weak. How would one grade this coin?
Great looking coin, the reverse is struck flat as a pancake. I think the obverse carries the day at vf30-35.
Interesting how weak the eagle's details are, considering the relative sharpness of the obverse portrait. I'll jump on the VF30 bandwagon, based on the obverse, and under the assumption that most of the reverse weakness is due to strike. Handsome coin, with nice toning.
30. Reverse is definitely weak strike issue. I might have given it a 35 but I think there are a few too many and slightly serious dings and gouges for the grade. But don't get me wrong - I like the coin. These early issues, IMHO, have much more "charm" and are much more interesting than more modern issues
The obverse carries the weight of the coin VF-30, although the reverse could bring it down, good luck.
Judging by wear alone I put in the area of XF. Looks like there is luster remaining in the reverse legends. It has a couple of other issues which would make it XF details for me. That said, I think it is a great coin.
Thank you very much for your comments. This was an Ebay find. I liked the tone and did not notice the E/A attribute until the coin arrived.
