Should I get this graded.

This was my grandmothers who has passed.

Im not going to sell it, even if offered $1000.

Since im keeping it, my question is, should I get this graded?

 

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If you send it in looking like that it will get put into a "problem" slab because of the green gunk (verdigris, PVC or other). It's a strong AU coin and some might give you ideas on how to conserve the gunk off the coin. Regardless, I see no need to certify the piece. Enjoy it raw and be able to hold it.

 

Tough question.......

If it was Grandmas', and in the family for 'forever' (and you want to expand and build on collecting) I'd say no. Keep it just as Grandma had it.

If you're planning on selling it, then consider sending it off to an independent set of 'eyes'........

 

I dont want to ruin the coin, by removing the "gunk" but if it means I could get it graded that would be pretty cool. I might do that if I can get advice on proper cleaning

 

I would not suggest you do it since I would assume that the coin will become a slightly different color than it is now. Also, I would not suggest you do anything to it yourself since you will likely ruin the surfaces if you are not experienced.

 

Oh dear......don't attempt to clean it.

 

I wouldnt do that. Perhaps I will just cardboard it, Too bad it has green on it, it is one of the nicest 1858's I have seen in person, very little wear

 

I would do what ever Tom tells you to do.

 

If you have it graded it's not gonna do you any good, cause you're never gonna sell it. Treasure it and you'll be happy without grading it. :yes:

 

Tom, could NCS do anything for this coin without altering the patina?

Chris

 

Yeah......inquiring minds want to know........

 

Agreed, do not try to remove the gunk yourself. NCS may be able to help conserve it, but leave that to someone with experience. Very nice coin buy the way!!! I would not get it graded, particularly if you don't plan to sell it.

 

I'd imagine that a trip to NCS might result in only a subtle color change where the surface metal is already exposed and healthy, but the underlying metal is a very large unknown. The stability of the underlying surface once exposed is one issue, but any corrosion or other damage beneath the green is another matter entirely.

 

Thanks for the advice. I would never try to clean a coinng myself. I will cardboard it, because as I mentioned, I will never sell it. Just thought it would be interesting to have a coin get graded.

 

So, my next questions to you would be.......

If it were you, and you had no intention of selling it, would you take the chance?

Wouldn't it look better without all the green gunk on it?

Thanks,

Chris

 

No. I would not take the chance.

 

Since its my coin, I can also chime my opinion.
I would not take the chance of ruining the coin. The coin has character and for being over 100 years old, and in my family. Who knows where it has been. Maybe my relative kept it in their wallet during ww2.

 

Thanks! I think your answers to those questions might help the OP.

Chris

 

im confused if the verdigris is all ready possible damaging the coin why not stop it with v care.

 

The verdigris on the coin is just the start. Left alone, it will get worse. Putting it in a slab would protect it from mechanical harm, but the verdigris is a chemical problem that WILL get worse. Put VerdiCare on a search engine and read some about it. I have used it and have never seen it change the color of a coin. If this were my coin, I would treat it with VerdiCare and put it in a round hard plastic case.