Two 1940 Jefferson nickels

Which would you choose and why?
Not the best photos at present.

 

Log in or Sign up to hide this ad.

Are you sure that's not the same coin with different lighting angles? The color in the cheek and along the top rim look identical just a different angle of the light showing the toning in two different shades.

 

I don't believe they are the same, at least they are listed as separate coins. Basing that on the reverse of the second nickel has a nick above cents.

Different prices as well but if that would be the same one I would opt for the lower price

 

I would go with the top. From the pictures the reverse seems to have better detail. Of course this is without knowing the price. So if the price is significant the second one isn't bad at all and I wouldn't be ashamed to put it in my collection.

 

It's hard to tell a difference. But if I had to choose I'd go with the first one as well, for the same reason as 4shot. The detail in Monticello looks to be a little better.

 

I also like the first one better. The detail is slightly better, and it looks like it might have some color. Although they appear to be the same grade.
I have a feeling the color is way off on both of these. That pink or red is from a light or reflecting from something.

 

I agree and like the first one better as well. Also, it appears to have some nice rim color. I sort of figured the pink/reddish color is a reflection, especially along the cheek and jawbone areas.

 

First one is better, but I love the eye appeal in the second one.

 

There is only one correct answer to this question...BOTH!

If I had to pick one it would be the first. Better strike and I like the patina.

 

I am going to dissent from the majority in this thread. I don't trust the accuracy of the color of those photos at all. IMO, the toning on the first coin is likely to be unattractive in hand. They both have pretty good detail though the first may be marginally better. In this scenario, I would go with the coin with the least amount of toning, coin #2.

What grade are they listed at? They look gem from the photos, but wouldn't pay above MS64.

 

You rebel.

 

They are both raw.

 

I understand, but how does the seller describe them? BU? GEM BU? I am saying that I would not pay above MS64 money for those coins with those photos even though there is a good chance based on the surface quality that they are gem grade.

 

My mistake, they are simply stating them as MS, they are more focused on the "tone"
Based on that, the price is right about MS64 money for the second one and and closer to MS65 money for the first one.

 

Take this as you will....My rule of thumb for buying raw nickels, especially with images like that, is to pay BU money.
In this particular case, I wouldn't pay more then $5 a nickel. Unless of course I suspect some sweet toning.

 

Good advice and perhaps in this particular case I will let both slide and look further!!