Caligula Denarii fine style/ID

Fair enough, good point. Definitely subjective, but its good to learn about the grading process with this sort of dialogue. Just like with modern coins & the debate about “market acceptable cleaning” , there will always be differing stand points.

 

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I prefer #1 - I think it is rendered in a more florid , or life-like way. #2 seems to have more static portraits. Certainly though , they are both beautiful coins.
my denarii of Caligula...

I like the first portrait of Agrippina.

 

My sentiments exactly, I would love to see the second coin in hand before making a decision. Based on the pictures, I would take #1.

Here's mine, a rare, final issue denarius of Caligula's fourth consulship, which only lasted from 1 January 41 until his assassination on 24 January. As far as I can tell, the fourth known.

 

#1

 

Of all the things that should be placed on a slab label, edge problems seem most important. Even if the prongs did not cover a lot of edge, the angle from which you can see the edges are limited so it is good to warn people they need to look at the edge. If you don't like the slab, crack it. I doubt this coin would do any better out where you could see how the light plays on the surfaces. Some of the surface issues in the field look more like alloy irregularities in the flan than later damage. 3/5 was not being unkind.

 

It is not my coin, just have seen coins with worse edges get a pass. To me, the coin’s edges don’t look all that bad. I agree though, edge issues are important.

 

You can’t see the edges of the Caligula in these photos so you can’t say you’ve seen worse edges get a pass. I suspect you’re looking at coins grades 7-10 years ago. The last 4 years all edge problems get mentioned.

Also don’t confuse the rim with the edge. Rim problems that can be clearly seen are different than edge problems. They will get considered in the surface grade but may not get mentioned.

Barry Murphy

 

Makes sense, the coins I have with these edge marks of sorts were before the numerical /5 system. Thanks for your insights!