Classic Head Large Cent, or 1916-D merc?

Ok, so I am 4 coins away from completing my XF+ Dansco 7070 type set(the key being the classic head large cent), and 1 coin away from completing my G/VG merc dime set(1916-d mercury dime). I found 1 of each that both look like decent coins at about the same price(reasonable in my opinion) from quality sellers, and I can't make up my mind. Since this would be a large purchase, I'm asking for opinions here as to which you would choose and why....

NGC XF40 1914 Large Cent:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330390003927&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

PCGS G-6 1916-D Mercury Dime:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150420015990&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

thanks!!

 

Log in or Sign up to hide this ad.

as a large cent collector i say get the dime. given i dont know how many of either coin in said grades remain finish what you can first. completing that merc set would be a huge accomplisment.

 

I've bought from both Sellers with good results. I would stick with the Mercury Dime. I don't like the verdigris on the Large Cent...and the fact that it's not mentioned on the slab makes me think it will only get worse.

 

You need to get that 1914 large cent. That has got to be one of a kind.

 

I agree with yakpoo. I don't like the verdigris on the large cent, slabbed or not.

The 16-D is a key date coin and is excellent for the grade.

I don't think (at least in my mind) that there's any question what I'd buy.

 

I would definitely pass on that dime. Just has a few gouges in it that really distract and draw the eye away. If you could, I'd hold out on getting a '16-D until you can afford a very nice looking VG8 or VG10. The AG3-G6 coins are so abundant for that date, but once you get into VG territory, you have something special. The '16-D should be the prize of your merc collection not only because it's a key date, but because it's a superior merc dime too... not sure that banged up G6 fits the bill.

If I had to choose between the two, it would then be the Classic Head Large Cent. Especially since you'd be cracking it for an album. After cracking it (and only if you've done it before with other copper coins - or are guided by someone with the experience) you may have some success in soaking the coin in mineral oil for awhile in order to loosen up some of the crud in the devices... again, don't mess with this coin if you haven't tried on other less expensive ones first. Either way, since they are buy it nows on eBay, don't forget to use Bing to get 8% cashback on your purchase (would save you nearly $100 on either purchase).

Here's the Classic Head I was going to use in my 7070 before I gave up on the project for other collecting interests... it was an NGC AU55:

 

Now THAT'S a nice coin!!

 

Thanks for the advice all! I really appreciate all of the quick responses!

I think that both coins have better than average details and are attractive for the grade/price, though they aren't "perfect".(I always spend several hours on Heritage archives making comparisons on any coins I consider purchasing over $100).

If I purchased the merc, it would stay in the slab. I used to have an AG-3 NGC, but sold it about a month ago and was looking for a full good to better fit with the set. Thanks for the advice illini and I will consider a VG, though it will stand out as having more detail in my G set.

The large cent would be cracked for my album. I did notice the green debris on the large cent, but it looks more like PVC than verdigris. I thought the overall surface quality and detail level was better than average when comparing to certified coins on Heritage. I have used acetone on coins of value with good results.

 

Out of those 2 I'd say the Dime but out of that dime and Illini's the Copper, WOW that's a nice one Illini!!

 

Get the dime out of those two. If you need to upgrade to a VG and wait a bit do it, but I would pass on that cent for now, pvc or verdigris, who knows what kind of damage lies below it, especially after you break it out.

 

I'd go for the LG cent just for the reason that everybody and their brother has key date coins for sale. A much nicer 16-D will probably pop-up in a week or two that you really like...

 

It is very difficult to give you an answer w/o knowing what kind of collector your are:

If you collect as an investment or for maximum return, then a 1916-D Mercury Dime is probably the better option as it will probably be easier to sell if/when the time comes, and it may even increase in value some.

If you collect because of the love of history, and the beauty of a coin, then the Classic Head cent wins hand down (vs the 16-D dime). I personally am this second type of collector.

The 1916-D dime does nothing for me. IMHO, It is at best a modern, "common" scarcity with astronomical prices just because everybody wants one. As i said, this is my opinion. On the other hand a well preserved, high grade Classic Head cent is NOT common.

So go for the cent is my vote. BUT, I have to add maybe NOT that particular one. It is not cheap, it does have does unsightly deposits on the reverse, and it is a commoner date as far as Classic Heads go. If you decide to go for the early cent, an option is to look out for an 1809, 1811 or 1813 in slightly lower grade, but with a cleaner look.

Either way, i wish you good luck in your decision!

 

I agree with abe: get the Large Cent if you are set on one of the two. There are a lot of "key date" dimes out there and finding one in lower grades is not difficult. opinion only - The 1814 on the other hand is a TOUGH coin. They were struck on planchets made of a softer copper than other large cents, and prove to be very hard to find in choice conditions. They had a tendency to corrode easier as well which explains some of the "build up" on this one.

I do think too that the dimes price has probably pretty much leveled out, adn the LC would be a better investment.

For my 7070 set I settled on one with a very nice planchet, but in much lower grade. I paid a very reasonable price for it so it didn't hurt too bad.......Turned out to be one of my favorites.

Good luck and let us know what you decide. Fellow

 

Personally I am not positive that the lighting is not causing the issue on the large cent. Actually if looking for one in this grade, I agree - search for others and don't take the chance. I would pass on the dime - normal like low grade coins,but think you can do better. Actually I think checking Heritage and some dealers are a good idea. Just my humble opinion.

 

Ok, well I didn't purchase either since you all brought up good reasons not to. Instead I purchased another coin needed for my type set. AU-53 20 cent piece. I really liked the look of this one, and I got it for $335, ($50 less than his asking price)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...96144&_sacat=See-All-Categories&_fvi=1&_rdc=1

 

Well, that is a very nice edition indeed, and the price is not bad at all.

 

I am really glad you did not buy that large cent.

That coin has porosity and verdigris.

I love Classic Head 1c, but they are renowned for porous and corroded planchets. Just because it's in a slab does NOT mean it's a problem free coin.

For that kind of money you can find more eye-pleasing specimens, even if they wind up being a lower grade.

 

nice twenty center, congrats.

 

I'm Drooling over a plain 4 with die crack in this condition.

 

Yeah, I believe it was Die state XII, aka Bearded Goddess...

You'd probably really be drooling if you knew how little I paid for it When I was less patient in buying coins and much less careful, I bought it off eBay using a real lowball Best Offer based on this photos provided by the seller:



I don't even think a reverse photo was listed, so I guess you can say I lucked out quite a bit After abandoning my type set project for other collecting goals, I ended up selling the coin to a dealer at Long Beach last year for about $1000 profit.