PNG says "NO" to coin doctoring!!

Doug,

I don't disagree with that in general. However, I view ever major auction's offerings of classic commemoratives and the majority of the high end registry coins are not blast white. This tells me that both the TPG's and the collector base think the toned examples exhibit more eye appeal.

In addition, a large number of the classic commemorative registry sets are comprised of fantastically toned coins. The San Diego collection of Oregon Half Dollars comes to my mind immediately.

The San Diego Collection

 

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I have dipped a few coins. Probably less the a dozen. Those coins either were bought in a group that I got as a group deal or toned that way after I received them.
The toning was very ugly and I wanted to remove that ugly color.
I don't think that Lafayette is unattractive at all. And I love the color to that one so as to let you know how ugly the toning was on the ones I dipped.
And I still own the ones I dipped as I don't sell my coins but have traded a few. One day they will be sold I assume though.
But I don't feel dipping is doctoring.

 

I agree with Paul. Though I would add that the San Diego Collection 50 piece set, which I am very familiar with, isn't at all bad either http://www.pcgs.com/setregistry/publishedset.aspx?s=72454

 

The original statement was related to which coins collectors of classic commemoratives prefer the most. My answer was attractively toned coins first and dipped white coins second. The number of attractively toned coins in high end holders and in registry sets supports my position.

Toning is kind of like drinking wine. In the beginning, most collectors prefer white (coins & wine). It is easier on the palate. Over time and with experience most wine drinkers gravitate towards red wine. Likewise, experienced coin collectors develop an appreciation for patinated coins.

Now I sumbit to you that any serious collector of classic commemorative coins is not a novice collector.

 

The problem I believe, is that new collectors start with circulated coins. Filling the books with junk. As they upgrade (if they do) I think they do it gradually. Unless they started with a very nice collection through inheritance or something, they develop a different attitude toward their collections. Many would aspire registered sets, but want the coins they have to look as good as possible. Only a very few can afford the creme de la creme of coins, so the rest of us settle for the black sheep and try to dye them white.