99% Sure that this is a Proof 1893 Isabella Quarter...

I'm guessing at least MS 64+ to 66 PL (?), though precise grades between 65 and 68 inclusive are something I'm still working on. Lower MS and 69-70 grades are easy for me due to the sheer greater exposure to them in my collection ("high grade" MS classic survivors and moderns, respectively).

I'm strongly considering getting PCGS's mid-level membership once I figure out which US coins and how many minimum coins makes it worthwhile to submit. The higher fees are probably worth it though. And, it'll be easier if they allow a combined US-World coin submission on one form, but I think they require separate forms like NGC.

 

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I'm preparing a May PCGS order if you're interested in piggy-backing. PM for details.

 

@iPen

IMO, not Proof. As you posted: "...this one looks just like a Proof-64 example I saw, but in better shape though with less colorful toning and the same amount of brilliant cartwheel luster."

Lots of these coins come PL. Unfortunately, from what I've observed, the top TPGS have slabbed PL's as Proofs possibly because the PR dies were used to strike the PL coins. I've seen the same die polish on both Proofs and PL's. Now that the damage is done, the only way this can be resolved is to gather all the coins slabbed as Proof, crack them out so the collar is visible and compare their die markers, edge, and mirrors. Don't hold your breath. Too much money at stake.

 

Thanks for that consideration! I think I may ultimately get a PCGS mid-tier membership soon-ish since I have lots of US coins that I want to submit throughout the year, but if that plan falls through and it's a yes, I'll definitely send you a PM by Monday of next week.

 

One of the things he asked was if there are any die markers, do you know of any?

 

Got a shot of the reverse wise guy?

Why on earth would anyone leave such a valuable coin in basement grader holder? Why not cross to PCGS or NGC and make the value of the coin so much higher? Why? Because it probably wouldn't cross and based on the pics I believe I know why.........it ain't a proof coin.

 

I took some more photos of this coin using natural daylight instead of the artificial intense lighting setup that I've been using lately. Though, my camera cast some large shadows on the coin so it appears duller than it appears in the photos. As shown in the first post, the coin has beaming cartwheel luster and strong mirroring.

However, should I be concerned about this spot on the obverse to the left of Isabella's chin? It looks to be hazy and some of it is shown throughout the coin. The second pic below shows this non-circular spot best. Does anyone know what that is? I'm concerned that it'll cause a Details grade. Or maybe I'm overthinking it.

Thanks in advance!