Sorry to keep asking these questions, I have not come remotely close to being very good at grading. I'm trying to focus on high grade examples, as upgrading seems to equate to a loss of money, and when the high grade examples aren't particularly expensive, it works out well.
if those small marks on the cheek are not wear that could be an ms65 with the carbon spot holding it back. looks like fsb
hard enough to grade based on pics as it is - when they are that size it's downright tough. But it looks like there are some marks on the cheek and a small scratch under the nose that would limit the grade for this one in my opinion. Some might give it a 64 but I think I'd go with 63. You don't get much allowance for marks with dimes. It does look like it's FB though.
Looks like MS63.... Zane...I have found that the best way I'm learning grading is to learn hands on....ask why the person graded the coin the way he did....and also read the books but more than that....the hands on... Speedy
That's what I have been trying to do. I've been getting much better as far as telling whether coins are g-vg etc., but applying the numerical grades is the tough part.
Grade That Merc. I happen to be a big collector of Mercury Dimes. I have found that original luster is a major factor. Look for full strike on the reverse as well. Your picture probably does not do justice to the coin, but it looks to me to be a possible MS65. You might want to invest in some PCGS or NGC graded MS65 or better to see how your ungraded coins compare to that. Thats what I have done.
Hate to say it but, regardless of what the grade is or how much they want for this coin, I would suggest that you pass it up and look for another one that don't have as many problems. This year and grade aren't that hard to find, and you should be able to do much better.
I will pass, my local dealer has a 37-s pcgs graded at a 66 FSB for 95 dollars. Seems like a really good buy, so I think I will pick it up.
Zane Get that coin....the last 2 on Heritage sold for more than that....a PCGS MS66FSB went for $322.00 and a NGC MS66 FSB went for $161.00....I think $95 is a good deal. Speedy
