Now I want to see a Lincoln cent design where he's wearing a headband with LIBERTY in relief. Heck, I'd settle for incuse. Flowers optional.
To the best of my knowledge, the letters in "Liberty" have NEVER been a consideration when grading Lincoln cents. I'm just passing on information as to what the professional graders and dealers do. I am no fan of raising a coin's ACTUAL CONDITION OF PRESERVATION for any reason. IMHO, only the coin's PRICE should change up or down for strike, eye appeal, damage, etc. Want to see what I mean? Take a look at a the over graded beautifully toned Type coins graded MS-67 on up on the market.