Ok Canadian Experts - How can this be? 97 Flying Loon MS68

XXX

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=3946183066&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT

I thought these were only in PL and Specimen set. Anyone know how this could be graded MS? This won't even go into any PCGS set list to date? Could this be out of a 97 Oh Canada Set?
Just very curious???????

Thanks for clearing the haze if you can?

shirohniichan

It's not "PL" because the last prooflikes were struck in 1980. There may be no discernable difference, but the mint set coins from 1981 on are called "Brilliant Uncirculated." I don't think PCGS distinguishes between the two, so the "MS" designation may have been a typo on their part. No matter what they call it, the Flying Loon was an RCM numismatic product and not a circulation coin.

XXX

Having that said that (above) does that mean this would belong in the: Elizabeth II Dollars, Proof-Likes (1968 to date), or Elizabeth II Dollars Circulation Strikes (1968 to date) registry series? Or is it just out there by itself? Any suggestions on what series it might qualify for entry into? Just baffeled at this point.

MyWorldCoinTypeSet

Just because a coin comes in a set encased in pliofilm doesn't mean its' Prooflike (PL). Prooflike refers to a condition of the coin and not the container in which the coin was delivered.

As a general rule, here are the strike characteristics of the three types of finishes recognized by PCGS for post 1953 coins ...
Business Strikes (MS) - somewhat rounded letters and numbers
Prooflike (PL) - flattened letters and numbers, better strike
Proof (PR) - excellent strike, frosted relief and brilliant background

Of course, there are exceptions, such as the 1964/1965 that PCGS considered Proof (PR) that have characteristics of the pre-1953 coins that PCGS calls Specimen (SP).

And, PCGS doesn't always get it right. I have one encapsulated coin that PCGS calls PL65, when it's definitely a Business Strike (MS).

Someone would have to take a close look at coin in question to determine if it has MS characteristics or PL characteristics

Askari

Now that's a handy guide for distinction -- Thanks!!