The more I look at all of the coins I seem to have a preference for the toned silver coins. It's something about the way they look. Don't take it wrong there is nothing wrong with an excellent BU specimen that appears like it just came out of the press but those coins that are toned just seem to catch my eye. How about it guys/gals what do you think?
I am new to this and have seen several. They look neat. My only hold back I want to know how much if any does toning degrade a coin?
It used to hold a coin back from the high grades (above MS65 I think) but from all that I have heard that is changing somewhat. Now - any toning is tarnish, no two ways about it. Most of the pretty colors will stay on the coins forever and never damage the surface if kepts cool, dry and dark most of the time. But for me, I really love the color, and in my eye it enhances the coin. Cris
What effects the value of the coin is eye appeal. If a particular coin has tremendous eye appeal thanks to spectacular toning, this can dramatically enhance the value. For instance, I have some some common Liberty Head Nickels for three times their normal value thanks to amazing rainbow toning. If on the other hand, a coin completely lacks any eye appeal due to ugly toning, this can reduce the value substantially depending upon the coin. I have seen some high mint state Morgans sell for a song because they were ugly.
A toned coin that is MS65 or better gets my attention every time, sometimes unfortunately, for my wallet and bank account. Like women, there are some unbelievably beautiful specimens out there and they are high dollar and will leave you broke if you are not careful.
Only a couple years ago - blast white coins were the most popular and demanded the highest prices. Today - toned coins are extremely popular. This preference has changed several times over the years. It will likely change several more. What it boils down to is that people get tired of the same thing after a period of time. I own many beautiful toned coins - and many beautiful white coins. I like them both. But not so long ago - I wouldn't even look twice at a toned coin Then my taste changed. It is the same way in the coin market. But what is popular today and brings higher prices - may not be the same tomorrow. Bottom line - buy what you like. And if your taste change - then sell 'em. If it doesn't change - keep 'em
I mostly buy toned coins. I'm not much into getting the "perfect" coin as much as one that just looks cool. I collect as a hobby not an investment, and my hobby is collecting stuff that looks cool. I even prefer slightly used AU coin over an MS. That said, I do own some never touched, in a bullet proof case, perfect coins. But they aren't my favourites.
I prefer white coins, since it reminds me more of how they would have looked like when they were first minted. I have a 1921 Morgan, though, that has a wonderful light orange toning near the edge.
