What is a "raw" coin? I see this term used on some eBay auctions and I'm not really sure what it means. David
I’m glad you cleared that up. I was going to buy some “raw” Silver Eagles because I thought they had Lady Liberty strutting around in her birthday suit.
Nds, Please be very careful if you are going to buy raw coins on eBay. There are very few sellers who accurately grade their coins and they don't always provide large, clear pictures so that you can grade the coin for yourself. Always make sure that all of your questions are answered and that you are happy with either the pictures in the auction or with ones that the seller has emailed you before you bid. And, although I'm sure you know this, beware of any raw, rare coins that look too good to be true - they are.
When I buy coins on Ebay, I drop the posted grade of a raw coin a minimum of one grade to determine what I am willing to pay for it. If it is a good clear picture, I will even hold up my Photograde book to the screen to compare. If it looks the same grade as stated, I'll ask for a picture of the reverse (if it is not posted) to double check that side also.
"Raw". What a joke. Yet another marketing term, invented by the slabbers, to help seperate collectors from their cash. Look folks, a coin, is a coin, is a coin. Either it is, or it aint. If you want nice quality, genuine coins, learn to recognize them. Either that, or pay someone else to do it for you. Here's what a true "raw" coin looks like. William Barber's "Amazonian" silver dollar. (hope Andy don't see this)
