2 Buffs..grade projections?

[jackson64]

ran across these 2 buffs..I don't know much about grading them..common dates 1937 and 1938-D ( aren't they all BU?)...are these nice enough for slabs?

[James_OldeTowne]

Without a doubt, I would not slab these, unless you feel absolutely positive the 1937 is an MS-67 or better, and/or the 1938-D is MS-68 or better.

 

I just can't tell you how many thousands of uncertified 1938-Ds in BU I've seen cross the auction block just at one little auction house (Scotsman), so the value of them will always be limited up through MS-67, and the $25 cost of certification usually just can't justify the potential rewards.

 

1937, while terribly common, is not on the level of 1938-D, so here, an MS-67 MIGHT be worthwhile, but even that is a stretch, because after paying for certification, you have to market it, and that is a weak, thin market.

 

Your coins look like MS-64 - 65 examples to me.

[BillJones]

James is right. These Buffalo nickels are not worth slabbing unless they get high grades. I'd say the first one is an MS-65, perhaps 66 and the other one is an MS-64. Don't bother to send them in.

[fishfinder]

I also agree wth James but that 1937 appears to have some very desirable toning and stands a chance if you so desire to take it.

[jackson64]

how are these coins graded?..the pictures are taken using a halogen lamp so that you could see that they are 100% hairline and contact mark free...is strike a big factor?

 

Here are 2 additional pictures using just a regular lightbulb

[BillJones]

You seem to be absolutely determined to send these coins in for grading so why don't you do it? These coins are very common, even in these grades, and are not worth slabbing IMO.

 

Most of the time the person who sends coins like these in for grading end up keeping them for a long time, or they sell them at a loss. The who buys them sells them for a minor mark-up and moves on.

[James_OldeTowne]

Luster is absolutely crucial to getting the MS-67 and MS-68 grades you'd need to make this venture worthwhile, and those two coins have nice luster - which is just not going to cut it. You need spectacular luster to have any shot at making it.

[jackson64]

thanks for the info ..yes the luster is just okay..and no I am not "absolutely determined to send them in"..as I said, I simply was asking for an education/info on how grade for this series is determined..thank you..they'll make great album coins..