First, what technical grade (however you'd define that)? Second, how would you adjust that technical grade for the toning (up/down?) to arrive at your "market grade?"
I don't collect Franklin Half Dollars and grading them is beyond my area of expertise, but from those photos, I would give a technical grade of MS65. The toning could be hiding some marks and it is impossible to determine the luster from the photo. Additionally, the toning precludes being able to determine FBL status. With regards to the toning, it is moderately attractive and very unusual. However, this is not the type of toning that would enable a coin to be market graded up for superb eye appeal. In addition, most coins will not receive a bumped up market grade unless the luster is also superlative. Incredible luster in combination with outstanding toning yield market graded examples. Without seeing the coin in hand, I will say that there is no difference between the technical grade and the assigned grade.
"Moderately attractive and very unusual," I would think I'm talking to a politician. But we agree it shouldn't get bumped up for superior eye appeal. Question, then, is should it get "taken down" a grade? Or doesn't market grading work that way (i.e., go both ways)? I'll tell you guys how this graded later; for now, let's just continue the exercise...anyone else confident enough to go on the line on this one? PS: just copy the photograph and size it however you need to, to see the detail (...it's a very clear photograph).
Unattractive toning most certainly can negatively affect the market grade of a coin. This usually only happens with dark, mottled, or toning that somehow mutes the luster of the coin. That is not the case for this coin. When I said unusual, I meant it in a good way. The toning patter is unique which is something that toned coin collectors covet. We don't want anyone else to have a coin that looks like ours. IMO, the toning on this coin is neutral with respect to grade. Resizing the photo will not help determine luster. As far as the strike and FBL status, well I am not really qualified to give a definitive decision so I will leave that duty to the other board members.
OK, so "no blood" on the toning...the grade, in this example, doesn't adjust, either way, for the toning. Just wanted to clarify your position on that, Lehigh...thanks. This coin, then, "market grades" its "technical grade." OK...step right up...who's next?
Gonna guess PCGS said 64. My grade would be 63, not because of marks, there are few, but the coin has a somewhat weak strike on the obv. It has some album slide scratches on the obv, and the toning is not attractive at all IMO. And it is very close to causing corrosion, particularly on the rev. I think it has to minor degree around the top of the first ST in STATES. That said, both NGC and PCGS will sometimes slab coins like this with album toning as high as 67, and the toning can cover the entire coin. But when they do they base on it quality of strike and the coin being mark free with underlying luster. This coin has little luster left that I can see - it appears the severe toning has wiped it mostly out.
You'd make a terrible politician. But that's how I see that aspect, too. I'm going to let the suspense build up a little longer. Come on, folks...take a chance!
