I recently returned from a trip to Florida. During my trip, I took some time to browse the local coin stores. One was a total dump, and the other was a top notch place. The half I picked up was in better shape than most there. Its not especially rare, but it makes a nice addition to my budding collection. Was graded XF-40, but after staring at it for a few days, I'm thinking that it falls somewhere between 30-35. Far off? Cost....$150 Might have paid a bit much, but I take it all as lessons learned. Let me know what you guys think.
Everything that I have been reading on grading these guys says that to be 40, all wing feather tips must be clearly defined. And that the "liberty band" must be sharp as well. Is there something else that is making up for the trouble on my coin? Thanks
still a newb at grading..... I'd say at least EF 40. Anyone more experienced, what else would need to be present for it to be say EF 45. As for $150, I think you got a good deal, I saw $175 for EF 40.
I was waiting for you to throw in your 2 cents..... Is it just the wing tips that prevent it from going 40? Or, does the bottom of the "liberty band" add to the equation too? I'd like to know so I am more prepared next time. The pictures on the Barber Collectors page, and in my Photograde lead me to think 30-35......but some here think it grades higher. You posted once before that you have a knack for Barber Halves. Maybe you have a pic of a 40 that you could share????? Thanks Pete
http://www.apmex.com/Product/32672/1906_D_XF_40_PCGS_50.aspx While it isnt the same year, it is still the same design. I guess there really is alot to be interpreted in grading coins.
The reverse has seen a bit more wear than the obverse, but that in mind the band in liberty is nearly complete and pretty sharp, the eagles wings show the feathers but not with all the detail they should. Final grade for me VF-30, which would run about $115-125. I wouldn't say you got burned, you might've overpaid a bit but you still got a very nice coin for the money and problem free barbers over fine are getting harder and harder to find in any denomination so you're going to be paying a bit of a premium
I realize that grading standards have fallen somewhat since I started to learn to grade in the late '60s, but still I would grade it a VF-20 myself, since there is considerable wear. For example on the reverse, there is too much wear on the eagle's neck and tail feathers, arrows, shield, inner wings for it to qualify as EF, in my opinion.
Pete: Sorry for the delay, tax season and all. But, VF-20. To go higher you really need more on the band under the Liberty. Also, unless it was a New Orleans mint there has to be more to the reverse wing details. As soon as tax season ends I'll try to post some pictures. :thumb: Also, look at the Barber Coin Collector's Society web page for info. http://www.barbercoins.org/ Also, I don't really have a knack for Barber half dollars, more like a fascination and quest to own every one ever minted. Along with the dimes and quarters.
