STAR designation for buffalo nickels

[aeagle01-migration]

Hello,

 

Does anyone know what the STAR (*) designation for buffalo nickels means.

 

Thanks,

aeagle01

[Wihlborg]

NGC gives the star to a coin that they think has exceptional eye appeal. It can be given to any type of coin, not just buffalo nickels, however all the graders must agree that the coin deserves the star. If any one of them disagrees, the coin will not get the star.

 

On a percentage basis, very few coins have been given the star by NGC compared to the number of coin they have graded, and as such, NGC star coins are highly sought after by collectors.

 

John

[Wihlborg]

By the way, welcome to the board!

 

John

[michael]

not only do all the graders have to agree on the star but also the finalizer has to agree also if only one disagrees it doesnot get the star

 

and yes this star means exceptional eye appeal and is one of the most subjective designations given

 

i do like the star for coins tha are simply amazing

 

BUT THE PROBLEM IS WITHIN THE LAST YEAR

 

i am seeing more and more star coins that for me do not deserve it by a long shot not even close

and yet others that do not get a star that are truly killer monster exceptionally eye appealling coins

 

so i would be careful of how much you pay for a star designated coin

 

you had better know and understand what you are looking at and the coin had better knock you out if it has the star and the seller wants a premium for it

 

 

michael

[jom]

Here's a "star" Buffalo. Notice that the obverse is at or near GEM but the reverse is mush. This graded MS63 STAR. You can't really give it an MS64 due to weak strike BUT....you can give it a "star". Seems appropriate to me.

 

 

jom