Improperly Cleaned... Blindsided posted by JTO

[CSJournals-migration]

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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[James_OldeTowne]

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

You cannot clean a coin with acetone, as it is not a chemical which reacts with copper.

 

But I agree with the overall sentiments of your thread, in general !

[Mark T]

I see no evidence from your small picture that the 1828 Bust was improperly cleaned. The coin was dipped but that is no reason to give it a details grade.