I would call it MS64*. I think the strike is normal for these, but because it's not suburb you'd need a really clean coin to grade higher than a 64 and this does have some hits. So, I don't see it getting a 65. But, with the toning and the fantastic eye appeal, I could see NGC giving it a star designation.
I sent him a PM telling him it was MS65. Here is a link the website that has it for sale. http://www.coinraritiesonline.com/index.php?page=search&task=det_item&item_id=1637 It is on hold for me! Now that you guys know the grade, what would you pay for it. Remember it is a Duvall 3-D variety.
OH my, the sellers statements match my sentiments exactly, one of the eye appealing Lafayette's I've come across as well. Again let me say, I envy your potential purchase. If I had the financial means myself, I would not hesitate to buy this coin. Best of luck, and again Thank you for sharing this with us.
I can't really say anything intelligent about the grading but I'd be shocked if it was an MS65. That scare on the portrait would disqualify it, IMO, from any grade over MS64. Obviously, you can see the hits as well as I can and it seems to have some gum on it between the A and the M. Other than that, it looks like it has a lot of original and nice luster. Ruben
That coin looks like a 64 or 65 to my eye -- I'd like to buy it in a 64 holder, and sell it in a 65 holder.
Were I grading, it would never make 65 - solid 64 though. The real question is what's the asking price ? I would be hesitant to pay 65 money for it.