Buffalo Nickel Grading Challenge. 1920D, Is It F-15 OR VF-20? (or what?)

Tyler1924S

Here's an all too common dilemma when grading these circulated Buff's... One that stumps me everytime, is it an F-15 or a VF-20? I was just getting ready to put it in a 2x2 album and couldn't decide after I noticed 75-80% horn & full separation of LIBERTY from rim. Nice Obverse die crack at one o'clock. Thanks in advance. (F-12 would fall into the "or what" category...)

commoncents05

VF20. I'm not sure about PCGS, but NGC will definitely grade it VF. (unless that's corrosion)

-Paul

Walkerguy21D

It's a F15 if you're buying, and a VF20 if you're selling! But seriously, good question. I agree NGC would slab it VF20 or higher, based on a number of their slabbed buffs I've looked at. And I sent in a 24-S with the same horn detail, but stronger obv detail, that PCGS slabbed VF25 for me.
The next dilemma then is, what is it worth? I see NGC coins graded VF20 or higher with less horn detail than this, but they don't seem to bring VF money in the market place.
Greg

coinkat

20 looks okay

jdimmick

It will grade Vf-20, maybe 25 at PCGS

Tonedbuff

VF20

ricko

VF20... Cheers, RickO

droopyd

I see what counts these days as a full horn -- VF-20 all the way.

Tyler1924S

Thanks, everyone! I value all your input. When I picked it up at the coin shop (as "Fine" $28.50)", I just saw a nice, original no problem coin, not the usual slick (too clean, hairlines) & rim dings, pitting, etc. (although, my scanner gives kind of a brown look to some grey/black on the coin). For that money, I paid little attention as to whether it was an F-15 or VF 20, just really liked the coin. Quite a few in the collection where I've bounced between F-15 & VF-20 over the years. A '24D, '24S & '23S come to mind. Some a little weaker than this, some stronger... Thanks!

Elcontador

I don't know about the 20 D, but if you want to get VF money for a 24 S, either the coin has a full horn or only a pendejo will give it to you.

jdimmick

I agree, most folks want to see a full horn to pay the VF spread. I like the coin as a vf-20, but mentioned VF-25 by PCGS becuase I see so many buffalo cirs 24-s, 26-s and few others overgraded in PCGS & NGC holders. They are too liberal in this area!!!!

jim

koynekwest

At least a VF20 and probably better-under the new, inflated ANA grading standards.

cmerlo1

20

Shamika

VF all day long.

gyocomgd

A slam-dunk VF30 by even the toughest standard, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. You can see the tip of the horn, the coin was otherwise struck well, and has no outstanding problems that I can see. Nice find!