Originally posted this in the 5 Franc thread along with the other Swiss coins I have been asked to sell, and one of our kind members here brought the low mintage of this fine example to my attention. Given the rarity, and large discrepancy between AU and MS, along with my lack of knowledge on grading Swiss coins in general, I was wondering what you fellows would grade it. Should I get it slabbed? Most pictures taken through a 10x loupe to show fine details entact on the coin, as well as what may be rub. Most suspicious area, regarding rub, in my opinion, would be the left breast of the figure on the front, as well as on her head. And yes, that's a sock. Better than wood, eh?
Impossible to say based on those pics, the toning is so dark and thick and you can't tell if there is any wear there or not. But my educated guess would be AU.
It's a tough coin to photograph, and my stupid point and shoot just can't get pictures like that. I'll have to update this thread in 3-4 weeks once my girlfriend is back in town and I can borrow her dslr.
I seriously doubt it will make any difference. As I said, the toning is extremely dark and thick on that coin. The best camera in the world isn't going to change that. It would require an in hand exam to tell for sure if that was AU.
I'll take it to some coin dealers this weekend and get their opinion on it, I guess. I'll bring back their grades and offers and let you guys get a laugh... I know these dudes will lowball me, so...
I agree with getting some in hand dealers opinions and even submitting it, I think it is a beautiful coin either way and should be worth a lot more in the future when world coins are as collected as U.S. coins.. I can not find any wear on the features, it would be worth it to me to take a gamble and submit it. IMO
I agree as well it needs to be in hand. A couple of the leaves expecially has me thinking AU, but impossible to tell right now. Nice coin, I like the toning, but then again I have always been a sucker for dark coins that take more time to admire.
