How can this coin be graded an AU 50 when the word LIBERTY cannot be read on the head band? Also, the ribbon is showing NO DIAMONDS. What were they (PCGS) thinking. It could be a weak strike but how does this coin get an AU grade? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320329305009&indexURL=0&photoDisplayType=2#ebayphotohosting I was looking for an 1871 with a bold N in the word CENT on the reverse when I came across this specimen. What do you think is going on here with the coin an the grade? Bruce
The seller says: Perhaps the PCGS the seller is referring to is his cousin Paul Christopher Gary Smith.
Maybe that's the case here but the strike looks mushy around the LIBERTY, the ribbon and around the ear. Bruce
It looks like the photo is just out of focus for this area! I copied the picture to my PC and zoomed in to 200% and the "LIBERTY" is there, though blurry as all get out. Frank
I've asked for better pictures but I got no answer. I guess the seller figures he'll sell it just because it's in the PCGS slab. He's got enough bidders who'll buy the holder without seeing the coin. Bruce
Yep - but he/she might not get what the coin is really worth and it could be a really nice coin for the price. But with blurry pictures that is an auction I will skip.
NEW PHOTO No big difference The seller finally posted another photo of this so called AU 50 IHC. I still think something is very wrong with the grading of the coin. From the newest photo you can see a vague LIBERTY and maybe part of 2 diamonds on the ribbon. It looks like he just lightened the photo. Is this a weak strike or a worn coin? I would have trouble paying VF-XF money for this coin. Bruce
