I am somewhat confused on how the PCG's come up with a final grade on coins that have considerable grades from the obverse to the reverse. Case in point. This 1801 Draped Bust Large cent shows a weak strike and much wear on the obverse, but shows a strong strike and minimum wear on the reverse. My thoughts are, that they might grade each face individually and come up with a grade in the middle of the two sides. What do you think ? Dave
Coins are supposed to always be graded according the worst side. And if you think about it that makes perfect sense.
Simple fact is that coin is not gradable too much damage. But the stated standard by both NGC and PCGS is the lowest graded side set the max grade of the coin. Edit to add that vast differences in the strike quality of the sides is sometimes the tell of some of the contemporary counterfeits too.
