I recently purchased a state quarter graded by NGC that has streaky toning. It almost looks like at some point in time that someone wiped the coin with a moist cloth (with who knows what for the moisture). Is streaky toning a natural thing or is it more likely caused by human hands? Does NGC typically grade coins that have been wiped like this (if in fact it was actually wiped)? I'd post a photo but I have found it impossible to capture the toning described in a photo. The coin exhibits the same streaks on both sides. The ebay listing described it as MS-65 which it is (graded by NGC). However, there was no mention of the streaky effect on the coin, so I am a little dissapointed. Myster
The picture from the auction is a scan and is not of high enough resolution to show the toning on the coin. I'll post one if I am successful at taking a photo that depicts the toning I have described. In the meantime, any ideas the cointalk community might have would be appreciated. myster
No NGC does not slab coins that have been wiped. But based on your description it sounds more like a coin that was improperly dipped. It was likely slabbed immediately after the dipping and the discoloration has occurred while the coin was in the slab.
I should have mentioned that the streaks are in opposite directions on each side of the coin. I would expect if the coin was dipped that the streaks would have the same orientation. If in fact this coin was cleaned and then slabbed by NGC.....do I have any recourse?
First you have to realize that there is a difference in what some call cleaned. All of the TPG's slab cleaned coins, but not of them slab harshly cleaned coins - except ANACS. But until you post pics the only thing we can do is guess at what's going on with the coin. But to answer your question, yes NGC stands behind their guarantee.
Does that mean that they would just refund the amount it cost to certify the coin or does it mean they would refund the price I purchased the coin for if it is in fact found to be cleaned? I don't think I'll go that route but it would be nice to know for future reference. myster
What it means is this and only this - first NGC has to agree after examination that the coin is a - over-graded or b - that it is damaged because it turned in the slab due to whatever reason. Then NGC will either offer to replace the coin in the same grade or they will offer to give you fair market value for the coin. But only NGC can determine what that fair market value is. What you paid for it has nothing to do with it at all. I still suggest you post a pic of the coin.
