I got this along with a nearly full book of liberty heads for Christmas from a family member. Unknown to him, the collection is worth well over what he paid. This is one of the gems from the coin book, and it is in great condition. I would like to know 1. The grade and 2. Whether or not I should soak it in MS 70 to get rid of all those dark blobs covering the coin. Also, here’s to coin book that I got. It was only $30! (Also got a nice key date; 1894)
Yeah, those aren't just dark spots on the 1898, they're pits. There's no rescuing that coin. Having said that, it does show the design's details nicely. I'm often happier with a coin in that condition rather than yet another heavily-worn "problem free" example.
Really sorry, but 1) nickel is hard to clean and 2) that particular coin is pitted and cleaning it would just make it worse...been there/done that
with the above. Put that 98 back in the dansco and start filling those empty hole. Look for coins with a similar condition and consistency of what you already have there. You're 3/4 to a complete set! A complete set in this circulated condition would be cool! I'm a complete set kinds guy!! Post them here as well... https://www.cointalk.com/threads/post-your-liberty-head-v-nickels.353134/