A somewhat different Coinguy1 "Which Coin(s) Do You Like Better And Why?" UPDATED FRIDAY O

coinguy1 · October 23, 2003 1:30AM

In order to add a new twist / wrinkle to these threads, I am listing approximate real-life asking prices for each coin, this time. So, make your selections based on what you think of the coins AND their cost. You have the money to buy any of these that you want, but, how will you spend it?

1) Choose an 1852 Braided Hair Large Cent - the first one will cost you $3500 and the second one, $2750 :

2) Choose a 1936-S Mercury dime - the first one will cost you $400 and the second one, $600 :

3) Choose an 1894-O Barber half dollar - the first one will cost you $575 and the second one $6250 :

4) Choose a 1941 Walker - the first one will cost you $200 and the second one, $925 :

5) Choose an Antietam commemorative - the first one will cost you $1700 and the second one, $1300 :

6) Choose an 1892 Columbian commemorative - the first one will cost you $1700 and the second one, $1400 :

FrattLaw · October 23, 2003 1:48AM

1) --- #1 I like the color better
2) --- #2 Beautiful luster
3) --- #1 always buy the one before the break?
4) --- #1 I like the toning
5) --- #1 I like the strike
6) --- #2 I like the toning

Michael

dragon · October 23, 2003 1:49AM

There are no Morgan dollars, what's up with that?

#2
#1
#2
#2
#1
#2

dragon

WACoinGuy · October 23, 2003 1:57AM

Large Cent: #1 - I like the look of it better. The face on the second one looks too "washed out"
Dime: #2 - I don't like the toning on the first one
Barber Half Dollar: #1 - Yeah, it's not as lustrous as the second one but with the money I'd save I could buy the rest of these coins.

Walker Half: #2 - The first one looks like it has flyspecks all over it
Antietam: #2 - These both look nice, so I'd go with the cheaper one
Columbian: #2 - Nice toning

onlyroosies · October 23, 2003 1:57AM

#2
#2
#2
#1
#1
#2

dragon · October 23, 2003 2:10AM

<<<Large Cent: #1 - I like the look of it better. The face on the second one looks too "washed out">>>

LOLOLOLOL!

RGL · October 23, 2003 2:12AM

1852 Large Cent: 1 -- cleaner, more eye appeal
1936-S Mercury: 2 -- beautiful blast white, slightly better obverse strike
1894-O Barber Half: 1 -- For the money (at least mine) a preferrable coin; 2 not worth the premium to me.
1941 Walker: 1 -- A close call, appears to have better thumb/hand detail.
Antietam: 1 -- I like that crisper, cleaner look.
Columbian: 2 -- Have to go with the rainbow rims.

Nice exercise -- and coins -- Mark ...

airplanenut · October 23, 2003 2:20AM

1- I would take the second large cent- I don't think the spots would be very visable at size, and it seems to have more red/luster
2- #2 seems to have a better strike... and amazing luster
3- I don't mind #1 being a little dull... and it's so much cheaper...
4- #1 is a lot cheaper, I like the toning, and it seems to be more lustrous
5- #1 has some originality... #2 seems too white... yay #1
6- #2 is cheaper???

GIMME #2 FOR THE COLOR!!!!!!

Jeremy

mdwoods · October 23, 2003 2:24AM

1 The strike and no specks.
? I'd have to see the first dime in person
1 I don't like the specks on the more lustrous coin.
1 I like the toning.
2 Looks a bit more lustrous
1 Nice luster

paigowjohnny · October 23, 2003 2:27AM

Coin 1: #1...I just like the color better
Coin 2: #2, but I don't know much about mercs
Coin 3: #2...cleaner and better luster
Coin 4: #2...again looks cleaner and a bit better strike
Coin 5: pass
Coin 6: #2...I like the color

mgoodm3 · October 23, 2003 2:35AM

#1 I like the first one. It looks more uniform.
#2 2nd one, nice surfaces and luster.
#3 2nd one looks to have some prooflike surfaces. But for the price the first is almost as nice.
#4 look similar so I'll take the first.
#5 nicer toning on the first, Look more contrasty.
#6 I like the second. I like the toning better.

BillF · October 23, 2003 2:36AM

1852 Braided Hair Large Cent - #1, the expensive one
1936-S Mercury dime - #2, the expensive one
1894-O Barber half dollar - #1, the (way) cheaper one. I'd save the almost $5500.
1941 Walker - #1, the cheaper one. Again, I'd save $725
Antietam commemorative - #2, the expensive one
1892 Columbian commemorative - #2, the cheaper one, and save another $300 but get the colors.

Dennis88 · October 23, 2003 2:47AM

#1 has to me a better eye-appeal
#2 Looks a lot better
#1 To much money for a coin wich looks almost to same (when you look fast)
#1 Reverse looks very good to me
#2 it is brighter
#1 same reason as the antietam commerative

nwcs · October 23, 2003 2:49AM

Oh Mark, I do enjoy these pics!

#2, I like the color
#2, The surface and eye appeal is better for my taste
#1, Similar coins, but this one is much cheaper and that is a big factor
#1, More appealing to me
#1, Looks like a stronger strike and a better surface
#2, More eye appealing to me

relayer · October 23, 2003 3:04AM

1) I'd pay 27% more for #1 since it's 40% better than #2
2) I'd pay 50% more for #2 since it's 100% better than #1
3) I'd stick with #1 because #2 is not 10x better
4) #1 - The toning is acceptable in place of the nice luster on #2 for a fraction of the price
5) #2 - I actually like the look of it over the more expensive brand
6) #2 - I like the toning

jcping · October 23, 2003 3:24AM

#1, I like the uniform surface.
#2, I take the eye appealing.
pass, I don't like the number one and number two price is not reasonable. I could wait for the #3 coin showed up.
pass, where is the number 3 coin ;-)
#1, Looks like a better surface
#2, More eye appealing and #1 is not exciting

kamehameha00 · October 23, 2003 3:32AM

1. the first one
2. the second one
3. the first one
4. can't really decide...ill go for number one
5. the second one
6. the first one

IrishMike · October 23, 2003 3:38AM

1) 1 for its strike
2) 2 don't like the toning on 1
3) 2 better strike and lustre
4) 1 this was a tough choice, my untrained eyes don't see much difference so 1 is the better value
5) 1 it looks original and I love the portrait look of it
6) 1 despite the toning on 2 it looks dull. I like the subtle toning on 1

I enjoyed this exercise, thanks.

gemtone65 · October 23, 2003 3:55AM

1) prefer #1 as more red

2) #2 as toning on #1 is too splotchy

3) I'll take ten of #1 over #2 anyday

4) Is this a trick question? #2 looks like #1 dipped. I'd prefer # 1 even if #2 were the same price. The toning on #1 is attractive. Obviously #1 is MS66 and #2 is MS67. There are many MS66 halves that are so close to MS67 that the extra money for MS67 is not worth it.

5) #2 I can hardly tell the difference, so I'll save $400

6) #1 not even close. The first one appears to have gorgeous color and great luster. The second has neat color but subdued luster. This was the easiest call. I'd spend the extra $300.

Shamika · October 23, 2003 4:40AM

1. The second because of the color.
2. The second because the bands are stronger and worth the premium.
3. The first since the price premium is out of line with the condition (imo).
4. I like the second one just slightly better, but not for the price thus I'd buy the first one.
5. The second one. It has better toning and a great price.
6. The second one. The two are equal with regards to eye appeal, but not with regards to price.

1jester · October 23, 2003 5:01AM

1. #2. Although #1 has a better strike, it's more expensive and has more brown (fingerprints, possible wear).
2. #2. Although #2 has been dipped, I presume, it does appear to have a stronger strike and full bands, which I can't verify on #1 by the scan.
3. #1. Although #2 is a superb coin, to me the price differential forces me to go with the first one, which is pretty nice.
4. #1. I think the first one not only represents a better deal pricewise, but may even have a stronger strike.
5. #1. Strong strike, original coin, and not much more expensive, relatively speaking. Otherwise, I can't seem to express in words my gut feeling that the first one is superior.
6. #2. Although #1 is a superb and highly desirable, original coin, I like the lower price on #2 and its original and very beautiful toning.

Nice comparisons, Coinguy! Which ones would you choose?

puff · October 23, 2003 5:26AM

On the Walkers only, (since that is what I collect), and judging only from the pics, I would take the # 1 Walker because I figure it is probably ms66, and not the # 2 Walker which is probaly a ms67, and then I would send the # 1 Walker in for a regrade!

From the photos the # 1 Walker has very attractive toning, and looks very clean from contact marks, it is original, and looks like it has nice skin, and the stike might possibly even be a little stronger.

But since these are photos, I might have a different opinion if I could see them in person.

Fairlaneman · October 23, 2003 5:54AM

Mark

I will comment on the Mercs only. For the Grade that is on the slab I would not buy either one of those coins. The particular grade they have is given out Way Tooooooo Frequently. I do not care for what appears to be two small hits on her cheek. JMHO. The Bottom non-Toned coin anyway. The Top one I am not sure I have seen it elsewhere as I have the other coin. The Tone does nothing for me. Probably it looks better in person.

Edit to fix Blotched up post.

Ken

Clankeye · October 23, 2003 6:17AM

The commems:

I do not see that much of a difference in the Antietam's that I would quickly pony up the extra few hundred dollars. Antietam's are plentiful in high mint state and the top one doesn't seem dramatically superior to the second. And that's what it would take to get me to pay more.

The Columbian I would prefer the second one for the color. It's color that is pretty common to Columbian's, in fact the first example may be rarer for it's lack of it... but nonetheless I prefer the second.

Edited to Add:

I am on board with the first Mercury dime and the first Liberty Walking half. I like their eye appeal just fine, and since it wouldn't be about the investment for me--that's where the Clank bucks would go.

Clankeye

stujoe · October 23, 2003 9:02AM

You must price by Stujoe Eye Appeal.

I liked the expensive better in every case except for the Columbian.

darktone · October 23, 2003 9:10AM

1)- I pick #2 it has some speckles but #1 looks retoned

2)- I pick #1 here as it looks original and number two looks like it has been helped

3)- I don't like either of these coins but if I had to pick one it would be the funky looking #1 as #2 looks pvc infested and that is just too much money for a with this problem.

4)- #2 all the way this one looks good

5)- I choose #2 but this was the only one that took more than a look to decide

6)- #2 look right for my taste

XpipedreamR · October 23, 2003 9:21AM

1 #1 Just like the look better
2 #1 Looks like some nice toning in person, I bet
3 #2 Because #1 looks a little dull&lifeless
4 #1 More attractive toning and cheaper!
5 #1 Just like it better, but would be happy with #2
6 #2 Nice toning and save money!

Gilbert · October 23, 2003 9:27AM

I think I like this exercise; can't wait to find out YOUR purpose with this one.

1. Number 1 - don't like the carbon spots on the 2nd one, but it DOES have nice color.

2. Number 2 - this one looks fresh off the dies, my preference. I am not opposed to toned coins; just not this one.

3. Number 2 - first one is a bit lackluster, kinda' dipped looking. I like the "satin" look and the details, details, details or the 2nd one.

4. Number 2 again - it too is a bit satiny and probably a higher grade. This pick was tough - there didn't appear to be an obvious $725 difference between the two.

5. Number 1 - more original looking and looks to have more crisp details. Again with the details.

6. Number 2 - Now here is a case where the toning HAS caught my eye and the strike is about equal. I want #2 but wouldn't be heartbroken with #1.

Elcontador · October 23, 2003 10:22AM

Prefer Large Cent #1. #2 looks like a "just made it RD," while #1 has a better strike, more even color and no carbon. Personally, I'd look for another date so I could get a coin with full denticles
and ideally, full radials on all stars if possible. I'd probably also want to drop 1 point on the 70 point scale on this one too and save nearly $2,000 on the price.

Prefer Merc Dime #2. Yes, the scratches on the obverse are more evident, but IMO, the toning on #1 is nasty, and who knows what kind of **** it is hiding.

I'd pass on the Barber Halves. The first one is appears to be too dipped out and ugly for me at any price. The second one has a better strike, but being the cheap ******* I am, I'd look for a 1892 P at the same grade / look as #2 and save $3,000 or more on the price.

I'd take the 1st Walker. While the motto is weaker and the color is a bit funky on the obverse, this is a common coin and can't see paying 4 to 5X as much for one which is graded one point higher.

I don't know enough re Commems to have any intelligent comments about them.

zenny · October 23, 2003 11:05AM

1. toss up. i'm guessing that #2 has nice color/luster in hand, but with a 3k cent i think i'd have to see in person.

2. #2 unless the toning on #1 looks much more attractive in hand than the photo.

3. keep em. i hate barbers. they are DUMB. there, i've said it.

4. #1 looks nice and original, #2 doesn't look like 5 times the coin.

5. #1 looks like a really, really sharp coin.

6. #1 looks like a really, really sharp coin.

thanks Mark, fun thread, plus i got to puketh on some barbers...

z

Fairlaneman · October 23, 2003 11:08AM

Hey Mark, lets hear some comments now. I'm curious about what you might have to say.

Ken

oreville · October 23, 2003 11:37AM

MY!!!!!

I just got fast DSL service and boy what a difference from dial up service! Having too much surfing today to guess at the grades!!!

I hope the winner wins the coins!!

Later!

mschris · October 23, 2003 12:37PM

1 1st coin - Crisp Detail
2 2nd coin - Clean Color and strike
3 2nd coin - Eye appeal & luster
4 1st coin - Actually like the 1st a little better, but not enough to pay the extra.
5 1st coin - Reverse seems to have better strike
6 2nd coin - I like the toning.

Gosh I hope this wasn't a test

coinguy1 · October 24, 2003 12:58AM

Thanks for the replies and your explanations as to why you made the choices you did.

Here are the grades, a reminder of the prices and your voting totals:

1852 1c NGC MS67RB $3500: 16 votes
1852 1c PCGS MS5RD $2750: 8 votes

1936-S 10c NGC MS67FB $400: 4 votes
1936-S 10c PCGS MS67FB $600: 21 votes

1894-O 50c PCGS MS62 $575: 15 votes
1894-O 50c PCGS MS65 $6250: 7 votes

1941 50c PCGS MS66 $200: 21 votes
1941 50c PCGS MS67 $925; 5 votes

Antietam PCGS MS67 $1700: 14 votes
Antietam PCGS MS67 $1300: 10 votes

1892 Columbian PCGS MS66 $1700: 6 votes
1892 Columbain PCGS MS66 $1400: 19 votes

I will now attempt to reply to my own questions in an objective fashion. That is no easy task, as, unlike you I was/am already aware of the grades at the time I am making my selections and I have seen most of the coins in person. But, going just from the images and the prices....

1) I'll take the first 1852 Large cent. I like its color blend and smooth looking surfaces. And, while the second one is "RD" there is a bit of mellowing and a few typical carbon specks/flecks. If I'm going to plunk down the $ for a "RD" copper coin, I want it to be amazing - most are not.

2) Give me the second 1936-S Mercury dime. The color on the first one is ok but it doesn't do a lot for me. The second one looks extremely crisp and jumps out at me - it has excellent eye-appeal.

3) For me, this is an easy one - I'll take the first 1894-O Barber half. I don't see enough difference between the two, to shell out an extra $5000 plus for the second one.

4) I choose the first 1941 Walker. I like the obverse color and it looks to be of excellent quality. It is as, or more appealing to me, than the second, more expensive one.

5) Give me the second Antietam. Both look to be of exceptional quality but the second one appears to have a bit more luster and I like the hint of color at the reverse border. It's also less money.

6) I want the second 1892 Columbian. The first one is plenty nice but I am a toning enthusiast and the second one has some pretty color and is less expensive.

This was fun - if you folks want, we can hopefully do this again before too long.

Fairlaneman · October 24, 2003 2:09AM

Mark

Next time match a PCGS Merc against a PCGS Merc. This time it was way tooooooo easy to figure out what was what.

It was Fun and Thanks for doing this.

Ken

Bear · October 24, 2003 2:48AM

Why was this a new Coinguy-1? What happened to the old one?

Is the new one an improved version?

1jester · October 24, 2003 4:12AM

....improving with age....

michael · October 24, 2003 1:56PM

number one large cent technically superb ,,,,,,,,,,,,, the second is too carboned for me

the second merc dime as it is dipped long ago but nicely lemon retoned now with a reasonable skin the eye appeal is much better on the second merc dime the first is too mottled and carboned for me

the second barber half 94-o it is a gem original coin i love it!!,,,,,,, the first one is a problem coin overdipped and just plain negative eye appeal

i do not like either of the walkers i would not choose either and walkers specifically like these pictured are not my speciality so i know little about them but i still do not like both

i like both antietam's but the first one is dipped but the second is the winner it has trememdous eye appeal and looks original to me

i like the second columbian it is very eye appealling and originally toned the first columbian i just do not like blast white dipped early commems yuk

michael

relayer · October 24, 2003 2:02PM

Congratulations Mark. You got them 100% right

<< <i>
1) I'd pay 27% more for #1 since it's 40% better than #2
2) I'd pay 50% more for #2 since it's 100% better than #1
3) I'd stick with #1 because #2 is not 10x better
4) #1 - The toning is acceptable in place of the nice luster on #2 for a fraction of the price
5) #2 - I actually like the look of it over the more expensive brand
6) #2 - I like the toning
>>

A somewhat different Coinguy1 "Which Coin(s) Do You Like Better And Why?" UPDATED FRIDAY O

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A somewhat different Coinguy1 &quot;Which Coin(s) Do You Like Better And Why?&quot; UPDATED FRIDAY O

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Leave a Comment

A somewhat different Coinguy1 "Which Coin(s) Do You Like Better And Why?" UPDATED FRIDAY O