To conserve or not?

spyglassdesign

I got this back from PCGS, and the spot on the face is really the most bothersome. Do you think it may be worth sending in for conservation? It is a 1917 Type 1 MS63FH.

I know it can be a gambit if something worse is uncovered but it can't be much worse than having a big black blob on Liberty's face?

Thanks!

MFeld

Not. I don’t think those spots can be removed without leaving scars that cause the coin to look worse.

spyglassdesign

@MFeld said:
Not. I don’t think those spots can be removed without leaving scars that cause the coin to look worse.

That's what I'm afraid of...

TomB

No. You will end up farther in a financial hole that you don't want to be in. I have two pieces of advice on a coin like this. First, if you find yourself in a hole and want to get out...stop digging. Second, if you aren't satisfied with a coin then sell it and buy one you like.

silverpop

agreed don't conserve it not worth the cash

Stingray63

Mixed feelings due to conservation experiences. Keep in mind these photos are magnified so the spots look worse than viewing at regular size by eye. I am probably leaning more toward leaving as is.

1madman

My take is what would be the upside value with conservation? If the coin is restored and bumps up to a 64FH, I think it’s only like a $100-$150 increase in value and not worth it. If it jumps to a 65FH, it’ll be close to a $500+ bump, and probably worth it.

I’m guessing that you’ll be selling the coin no matter what decision is made?

spyglassdesign

@1madman pretty much. Even if I don't end up selling it, I just don't like it as it is. As others have said there would be little upside to the risk... I'm not so much after a grading upgrade as much as the eye appeal (which of course would make it easier to sell). But if the removal leaves even less appealing scars behind...

1madman

If the coin is restored, and all the black spots come off, and it still comes back as a 63FH, all you did was waste money. I can’t see this coin selling for that much more money in the same grade spotted vs unspotted. You’d have to have a full 2 point upgrade to make the restoration worth it, and you’ll need to use your grading skills to see how many hits are currently on the coin.

NGC might be more lenient on the grading aspect (adding 1 point), and they do a good job with conservation there (adding another point after spots removed). Might be worth cracking the coin out, and submit raw for conservation and grading to NGC. I could see it getting the best chance at going 65FH that route.

ricko

Based on the pictures, and my experience, I would not send it in. It will not be improved. Cheers, RickO

skier07

I would leave the coin alone. Financially it doesn’t make a lot of sense and more importantly the coin has so many spots that it will be difficult to remove them while improving the appearance of the coin and who knows what lies underneath the spots.

TPRC

No... I had a similar looking 5c piece. Sold it....moved on as I concluded that it could not be restored, as the marks on mine were imbedded.

Cougar1978

Yes but what is the cost?- As is the coin is a dog / C coin if even that. I am not real sure those horrible spots can be removed (looks like biological attack based on example in my coin preservation handbook). I suggest you explore the issue with our hosts.

Otherwise I don’t see any good choices- start on the bay at 99c as is?

I had a really nice BU unspotted, untarnished 1917 T1 SLQ Anacs 63 FH with super luster and strike. It definitely an A coin. Got full NN retail plus some on it years ago at a show setup at. Sold quickly. Haven’t seen one as nice since.

Try to get untarnished, unspotted material that is PQ wellstruck and has flashy super luster. These are in high demand off the bourse.

spyglassdesign

@TPRC said:
No... I had a similar looking 5c piece. Sold it....moved on as I concluded that it could not be restored, as the marks on mine were imbedded.

These look like surface material but it's hard to say... If it was a corrosive material removing it could be disastrous. If it was a pvc or plastic based it may work out...

It's a tough call but I appreciate the feedback. Still leaning towards not.