I need a lesson from the experts

[Raisethis2]

I have this dollar that has very minimal abrasions in the field and on the cheek. They look much worse in the pictures than in hand, however, the coin is a satiny looking business strike that while completely original just doesn't have the "pop" that I like.

 

The question is............ does a nice clean original coin warrant the same high grade as a similar coin that just grabs your eye and won't let go?

 

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Thanks for your input.

 

 

[physics-fan3.14]

The words you are using in your description seem to indicate you are asking a question about luster. There are several different types of luster - the satiny look that you describe, and then strong, blazing luster that really "pops." The answer to your question is difficult, and will vary depending on who you ask.

 

My answer would be yes, strong or weak luster will affect the grade. All other things being equal, the quality of the luster can bring a mid-level 64 up to a 65, and weak luster can bring a mid-level 65 down to a high-level 64. This is my opinion, of course.

 

Luster also plays into the intangible "eye appeal." Eye appeal is well known to affect the grade of a coin by up to a point (or more - although I generally disagree with that).

 

As a point of interest, from the pictures you provide, the luster looks pretty good on that coin. I would probably grade it a 64.

[MarkFeld]

"The question is............ does a nice clean original coin warrant the same high grade as a similar coin that just grabs your eye and won't let go?"

 

 

Since luster and eye appeal can affect a coin's grade, my answer to your question is: In many cases, no.

[Raisethis2]

I think all things considered the coin is probably an easy MS 64 but it has the sex appeal of Rodney Dangerfield rather than Pamela Anderson.

 

I think I agree with Mark in that the luster is unquestionable (as is the cartwheel) but the eye appeal will hold it back.

 

The die cracks are cool though.

 

[messydesk]

Don't try and compare luster on a 99-O to an 81-S. They're totally different coins. A typical 81-S has flashy, hit-you-in-the-face-with-a-brick luster, where a typical 99-O has much more silky luster like the coin you show.