Photos of proof Walker and Merc; comparing light and backgrounds. Also, Grade the Coins!

Baley

I was playing with light and backgrounds and the camera this morning and produced these images:



















the off-white background pics were taken in diffused sunlight through a window.

the black background pics were taken with diffuse sunlight from 9 o'clock and a lamp at 12 o'clock.

what can i do to improve these images and what do you think these pcgs coins grade?

cosmicdebris

<<what can i do to improve these images>>

Deslab them

stev32k

The ones taken with the lamp have a typical incandescent goldish/yellow cast. Since I don't know what camera you are using I can't be sure what is causing it. It could be your white balance is set to direct sunlight (if you have WB options) or the auto WB is not very good. The main comment I have is that the coins don't really have the "proof coin" look in the pictures. They look more like business strikes from a luster/shine standpoint.

As to grades: WL half looks PR66-PR68. At least I can't detect a single mark, ding, or scratch on either side. It also looks like a good strike (good thumb definition & strong skirt lines). The merc also looks high grade to me. Again I can't detect a single mark, ding, or scratch. I'd say PR66-MS68.

midwestcoin13

I'm callin MS65 on all.

stev32k

Ok. Are you going to tell us the grades?

gamer1958

my eyes see three blemishes on the Walker--at 3 o'clock, to the left of Y there is a speck. Midway between R and T, another. And on the skirt, just to right of 2nd set of skirt lines, one more. Nice, very nice coin--but I'd wag no higher than 63-64 on it, unless those spots are on the holder. I'll guess the Merc is higher, but I need better glasses to see them small dimes.

stev32k

<< my eyes see three blemishes on the Walker--at 3 o'clock, to the left of Y there is a speck. Midway between R and T, another. And on the skirt, just to right of 2nd set of skirt lines, one more. Nice, very nice coin--but I'd wag no higher than 63-64 on it, unless those spots are on the holder.>>

You got better eyes than me. I see them since you point them out, but I didn't see them first time around. I still say PR66+ mainly because I've seen the quality of coin Baley buys. He don't do cheap stuff.

coinfreak499

Pr 67 on both. Nice coins

Merc

The dime has some interesting toning. It is very difficult taking pictures of coins using sunlight. I have tried and they never look right. Try taking the pictures using a single strong light (but not the sun )

I can't grade a proof from small pictures. The scratches on the holders make it hard to see any hairlines on the proofs.

Baley

both coins have tarnish, the dime is in a rattler 64, the half is blue 66, both holders have some scratches

steve32k, yes the light is incandescent lamp, the camera a sony, thanks for the feedback