Just recently purchased this gorgeous coin. It is graded by PCGS. Obviously, it is PL. But - you get to guess the grade! (it is in a problem free holder, designated as PL) It is entirely coincidental that BRG and I posted Prussian coins within a couple of minutes of each other. But it's an interesting comparison!
This coin is tough. It appears to have obvious friction in the fields which would relegate it to AU, but I don't see any evidence of high point wear, so I'm left feeling that the impairments in the field are just an photographic effect from the PL nature of the coin. The surfaces seem to be very clean (MS64), but the overall look is not of a choice or gem coin, so I would say they net graded it to MS62.
Here's the PCGS TruView alternate angle. Does this change anyone's opinion? In other news... I really love the cameo on the reverse. Dang, it's gorgeous.
I think the PCGS photos actually make the abrasions in the fields on the obverse look a bit stronger, particularly behind Wilhelm's head. Based on your photos I said MS62PL, the PCGS photos make it look closer to MS61+PL or MS61PL. The reverse is MS62 no problem, obverse is probably closer to MS61 - maybe MS61+ PL net?
I went back forth between 61 and 62, but given my experiences with PCGS and world coins, I opted for 62. I bet this thing pops in hand!
The reverse design is gorgeous! Great new coin Jason - I'm happy to see you moving more and more into world coins. I know your love for Moroccan coins, but Prussia is a new arena for you! We'll convert you to a complete dark-sider before too long.
I do actually have a few other Prussian coins already. I have no intention of collecting Prussian coins - I am collecting Prooflike coins. I'm buying whatever comes my way. It just so happens that certain countries are more prone to making PL coins (Austrian Empire, Prussia, Guatemala, Mexico, and Sweden are a few that come quickly to mind). You can see the rest of my set here: https://coins.www.collectors-society.com/WCM/CoinCustomSetView.aspx?s=27305 Here's another Prussian coin I have, NGC MS-67 PL
Good job to everyone who guessed MS-61 PL on the taler! As the pictures show, there are quite a few contact marks - nearly the entire surface of the coin has fine, delicate marks. There is no rub and no trace of wear, so an UNC grade is correct. This coin probably doesn't have a chance at 62 - there are just too many marks. What I really love about this coin is the absolutely hammered strike, deep reflective fields, and gorgeous cameo contrast on the devices.
