As noted above, different die pairings might put a better obverse die with a reverse die especially where paired sets had clashed and one of the pair was damaged catastrophically. As a result, the odd pair is created and used to coin. Another thing to consider here is that before the turn of last century, it was very common to clean/polish a coin for placement into an old album. If you ever get the chance to see an old album, many times the obverses of the coins were polished by the collector for presentation. This unnaturally wore the coin down and created scratches. When buying old coins, consider the age of the cleaning/polishing. While it isn't as desirable a condition by today's standards, it was a common practice of old (e.g. on or about or before 1920 or so).
Personally I would wait keep setting aside a few extra dollars when possible and buy yourself one that is in a much higher grade then this one. If this one is very cheap and is reasonable do what your heart tells you is best. I totally agree with the wisdom of @ Randy Ambercombie ,he always hits the coin on the obverse , or the nail on the head .
I think I can say without fear of contradiction that there are many more coins I’m glad I did not buy than coins I regret not buying.
Rachel, I'm sure you can find something much better... A few years ago I was digging a small flower garden in my back yard. I live in a very rural area in Kentucky, and the Nolin River flows through my backyard. I typically find arrow heads (over 50 in the last 15 years), but this one time I found my "pocket piece", an 1836 half with lettered edge. I can't tell if the one you posted has the lettered edge or the reeded edge. Mine, obviously, has a hole in it, where someone, at some time, wore it, or sewed it into their clothing. All I did with mine was soak it in soapy warm water, and used my soft toothbrush, and it stays in my watch pocket with a poker chip and my 1880 Morgan half. I might wear it someday, but not just yet.