Opinions wanted on Shield nickel proof
JoeLewis
Posts: 1,907 ✭✭✭✭
Hi everyone. I'm a long time user who is just now coming back to coin collecting (and this site) after many years. I'm looking at this proof Shield nickel for a type set, and I was wondering what you guys think of it. I do not own this coin, but am considering buying it. It's a PR65, and is at the top of what I can afford.
Strike is a huge factor for me in liking a coin, and the MS Shields typically leave a lot to be desired in that regard. I'm also not a fan of die cracks, and the MS ones are usually full of them. So I think a proof will do just nicely. Anyway, I can't see this coin in person, so I'm trying to get a feel for it from the TrueView, and I would appreciate your feedback on it. Thanks!
US and British coin collector, and creator of The Ultimate Chuck E. Cheese's and Showbiz Pizza Place Token & Ticket Guide
Comments
I feel like the smudges on the reverse would bother me. Otherwise a nice coin.
Collector, occasional seller
The smudges are probably copper toning. You see this on some Liberty Nickels as well. Some late date proofs are dull, like the 1881, and can get confused with business strikes (there's a huge price difference between them of this date).
The 1883 is a type coin for the business strike (and I think for the PF as well, but am not sure). The date is readily available, and I'd pass on this one. At MS 65, you shouldn't have any difficulty finding one without the copper streaking. From the pic, the grade appears accurate.
Haven't checked recently, but they have nosedived in price over the years, so don't stretch to buy one.
I would look for a nicer one.
I tend to try to not comment on coins not yet purchased but seeking opinions publicly on the forum. Often they are on dealer websites and the flogging the coin receives hurts the other party. If someone asks privately I’m happy to provide an opinion.
Latin American Collection
Thanks guys!
US and British coin collector, and creator of The Ultimate Chuck E. Cheese's and Showbiz Pizza Place Token & Ticket Guide
The positives for me are the strike and a hint of cameo contrast. That said, the eye appeal is neutral at best, which is a deal-breaker for me.
I've looked at about 50 various date Proof Shield Nickels today in the PF66 range priced at $600-$725 and found all to have some trace of copper streaking. Might not be such an easy task and may take some searching but I believe you will eventually win out. Good luck and welcome back to the hobby.
Jim
When a man who is honestly mistaken hears the truth, he will either quit being mistaken or cease to be honest....Abraham Lincoln
Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.....Mark Twain
Yeah, I’ve been looking everywhere.
All of them have field issues...mostly haziness, spotting, and copper streaking. With the MS coins, there’s a bunch of die breaks, severe die scrubbing, strike weakness, and miscellaneous chatter.
At least in my price range $500-ish.
This will take a lot of patience.
US and British coin collector, and creator of The Ultimate Chuck E. Cheese's and Showbiz Pizza Place Token & Ticket Guide
I like the Shield series because of the die cracks, why not just accept the series for what it is?
What might be considered a smudge beneath the 5 appears to me to be the remnants of a partial fingerprint. This may or may not show up at every angle, but be aware that it is there and, if it bothers you at all, it will not be going anywhere anytime soon.
In honor of the memory of Cpl. Michael E. Thompson
Looks to be a couple of small digs/ scratches in the field next to the 5
Find another specimen .
I give away money. I collect money.
I don’t love money . I do love the Lord God.
I would wait for a haze free one without copper streaks or spots. Might take a little time but they are out there.
I agree with @TomB that the reverse toning appears to come from an old fingerprint. However, the obverse is attractive.
Whatever you pick, I hope you enjoy getting back into the hobby!
I suspect the true view is nicer than the coin in hand.
I agree and saw this straight away.
I don't really mind prints but many do.
patience is usually rewarding in this hobby.
Patience.
Welcome back to the hobby and the forum..... The nickel is not one I would consider... Mainly because of general aesthetics...Cheers, RickO