So, I'm in the market for and looking around EBAY for an 1886 Liberty Nickel. There's a ton of them but I'm taking my time. Just looking for a very good or fine example. Most of them are not very pretty when using the enlargement feature. A lot are cleaned or have nicks and scratches. I come across an example from APMEX and it does not look all that bad. I use the enlargement feature and it looks good. I scroll down and see their disclaimer about pictures being representative of, but not necessarily the actual coin you will get. Sorry, but this just rankles me. Here's a company who has a decent rep and they are using stock photos. Looks like this is going to be a long search.
Certified is the only way to go with a rare date. That will insure authenticity and you will see an image.
Yep, that's the direction I'm headed on this one. I'm seeing way too many raw that have a closed loop on the "6". That's not good to start with, wear or not.
@tommyc03 - I agree with you. Stock photos are OK for generic bullion. Not better-date coins. As suggested, you're best to shop for slabs, anyway.
Keep looking they are out there. Took me several years to complete two sets, one for each granddaughter. Good luck.
Their website states below the Listing: "Your purchase will match the quality of the product shown." IF the coin pictured (IMO, a G8) does truly represent what you will receive--a G4 or G6 still has a market value on par with the $199 they are asking for. Why not either call/message them and ask if someone could snap a photo of both sides on their smartphone and send it to you; if you approve, then ask them to reserve it for you pending payment.
eBay bans stock photos of "used items" which would include circulated coins. Report them. https://www.ebay.com/help/policies/listing-policies/picture-policy?id=4370
