Improperly Cleaned or Improperly Graded

Some of my most beautiful coins are Improperly Cleaned (problem coins). If you look at my (JTO) 1792-1964 type set and view the pictures of the 1793 wreath large cent and the Capped Bust Half Dollar I think you will see what I mean. I think, in some respects we, as collectors, have lost our way. The grading services have hijacked our hobby. Numismatics is a form of art albeit within historical contexts. With the registry system "collectors" seem to prefer an ugly MS-61 over a beautiful AU-58.

Your posting raised an important question based on the subjective nature of the grading process. The real question is not how we should educate ourselves on identifying the possibility of a gentle cleaning occurring over 100 years ago (one that leaves no hairlines, does not disrupt the luster or SIGNIFICANTLY alter the coin's appearance); the question is how do we get the major grading services to use a more reasonable set of standards.

I have some of the same experiences with the grading services as you...

1909-S Indian Cent ICG AU-58 Details corroded... I CLEANED with acetone and it became a 1909-S Indian Cent PCGS AU-58.

An 1893 Isabella 25c NGC body bag "Altered Surfice" became PCGS MS-63

I really enjoy the registry game and I wish there was more emphasis on the coins in the sets rather than just the holders the coins are in.

John

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