Are we tired of Lincolns yet? I always went back and forth on this one, whether or not it was a matte proof. The rims arent quite what they should be, however the obverse does have a couple of the same markers as the matte proof. As your hint, it is not a matte proof.
Whoa, nice. The trouble with these when they aren't heavily toned though is the light cuts and scrapes aren't "masked." Still, I think this should MS66.
This is a very nice looking Lincoln! Strike: MS-67 this thing was hammered with fresh dies. It has an MPL look with the sharply defined details both obverse and reverse Luster: MS-66 very nice luster, it looks like the luster would dance in hand. Eye Appeal: MS-66 I love the color on this, it's a nice dark chocolate with mint green undertonings. Condition: MS-66 Obverse, just a little chatter in the fields in front of Lincoln with only 1 contact mark that stands out. MS-64 Reverse, the reverse has a few more contact marks than the obverse, enough so that I would rate it as a high 64. Overall I would grade this as a 65+BN - 66BN, but knowing NGC they probably slabbed it as a 64BN.
There appears to be some discoloration above the ear which looks like wear. However, I am not sure if this is the first spot to wear on this series. If it is wear, I can see a market-graded MS-63 BN. If not, I can see MS-64 BN due to the heavy contact marks on the reverse.
Good observation on the "wear spot" It isnt wear though. Have a look at this 1915 MPL courtesy coin facts: Note the same "wear spot" above the ear. This coin graded PF-67. It isnt a wear spot. Remember that the master hubs were re-done in 1915 giving Lincoln more details. This spot seems to be on a lot of proof and MS 1915 Lincolns.
I will reveal in the next few hours. Or maybe I will hold the answer ransom until Ed Wood takes his guess then I will reveal lol
Dear Kentucky, I am responding on Eds behalf as I have been hired as an assistant for his fabulous new grading service. Unfortunately for you all, but fortunately for him, he is currently on vacation in beautiful Monte Carlo, sipping daquiris and acquiring wealthy new investors. He is due to return from his business venture shortly after the grade is revealed. Though, I can personally guarantee that his grade will be spot on, while he may have the benefit of hindsight that is beside the point as he would have been correct regardless. Have a great day numismatic peons! (Lol, just kidding of course, please don't sue me for false representation Ed, I'm well aware of the incredible prowess of your legal team and wish not to have a quarrel with them.)
Personally, I thought it was an MS 63 BN originally, but I believe that the closeup images made it look like there were more hits than in actuality. Seeing the full slab photo, I would say MS 65 looks correct. Nice coin!