Franklin FBL Qualifications Question

brocmitchell

I've often read that with FBL a cut across the lines can preclude FBL designation. The 1953-P below I was sure had FBL based on technical merits and comparison to TrueViews, and now that the cert is in overlaying this TV with other coins that made the designation and it seems the coin is, or would be, FBL if not for the cut? I am seeking opinions or information from those more seasoned with FBL Franklins for my continued education. From a valuation standpoint, is there any "just missed it" markup or is it all or nothing?

Thank you!

https://www.pcgs.com/cert/41960983

jmlanzaf

Hard for me to tell, but it really doesn't look FBL to me even without the "cut".

ShaunBC5

On my computer this one isn't all that close, and I don't think there's a "just missed it" premium for these or Mercs. It either is or it isn't. I like the coin, though.

brocmitchell

This one https://images.pcgs.com/CoinFacts/41057192_133082570_Max.jpg is the plate coin for 1953 FBL so to speak in Coin Facts, it seems pretty spot on compared to this one, but it may be "mother's love" that makes me think mine matches!

SkyMan

Pretty coin.

PCGS is not "clean cut" with regards to cuts across the bell lines. It TENDS to give cuts the benefit of FBL for date/mm where there is a relatively low premium for going from non-FBL to FBL. For dates where it is tougher to get FBL then PCGS grades much tougher for cuts across bell lines. 1953 is a much tougher date/mm for going from non-FBL to FBL (in MS65 the price is $100 for non-FBL vs. $650 for FBL).

Having said that, aside from the cut in the bell line for your coin, there also appears to be weakness in the bell line per se between the cut and the crack (in the bell).

ricko

I do not believe that would make it as FBL even without the cut..... It is a nice coin though. Cheers, RickO