I've been working on a lesser quality PCGS set of these and was the one that chose, same grade. MS 62 is where I'd have guessed each ended up at. Surprised that so many felt coin #2 is a grade better. Fields on #2 seem to have an equal # of distractions imo.
I’d bet both are graded AU-58, though it is difficult to say for sure from the photos.. However, the first one has more wear and the reverse has some distracting scratches. The second one has all-around better eye appeal.
I’ve already mentioned that they graded MS62, but AU58 would be reasonable too. Indian head gold is quite hard to grade due to the incuse design. Click below to look at the PCGS pictures: Coin #1 https://www.pcgs.com/cert/36709575 Coin #2 https://www.pcgs.com/cert/36722285
I can see them graded at 62. I thought low ms on both but personally I’d have called them 58. I prefer the look of the second and feel that’s the higher end coin for the grade
After a closer look on both coins I prefer the first coin purely of it's much better luster...I don't care about an extra scratch or an better Strike.....Luster counts for me!!! The Second coin looks Like someone operated with a kind of alcohol to clean the surface.
Thanks guys for the feedback. It seems most of you like the second coin better, while only a few think the first coin is nicer. @C-B-D what do you think?
I fully agree with you, but be assured the luster is virtually identical on both coins. I’ve received the second coin this morning and personally think it’s a very nice AU62 ;-)