Should it stay or should it go?

spoon

I recently experimented with buying from "Bob's Grading Service" (as CP calls it). The seller's pics below show the coin, a Swiss franc, 1914, graded MS 65. I had no illusions that it would be a 65, and after winning it I noticed the dings. In reality, it is nice, original--but closer to 63 with two big rim dings on reverse and a few more minor marks elsewhere.

I realize Krause values are low on Swiss material (this is listed at $32 in BU!), and to be honest I just haven't seen this date in gem during the 2 or so years that I've been sporadically looking. (Admittedly, I don't have the sources Mac and Dimitri do for Swiss! ) That leaves me inclined to believe that I'll have to shill a ton of cash (relatively speaking) for a true UNC. At $42 this is actually, surprisingly the most expensive coin in my 1914 set (so far!)

Should I just keep this as a filler or return it over the dings?

Anyone know where I can find a better example?

nicholasz219

I say keep it until you find a true 65 somewhere. Not a bad looking coin, and for $42, why not?

1960NYGiants

There should be quite alot of Swiss pieces at the NYINC next week.

NYINC

coinpictures

63???

I must be very unfamiliar with these, because based on the seller pics I would have thought closer to XF, AU at best. I assume there's a lot more lustre than the pictures imply?

TwoKopeiki

Hard to judge from the pics, but I'm with CP on this one.

MacCrimmon

spoon, I can tell exactly "zero" from those scans of the '14.

The 14s are a good bit tougher in reality than a 1920, but carry only a slight premium. Anyway, a no-questions 65 would currently run you about $70-75 in Switz. It should not be a difficult date to find. If you're looking for a 66+/67 kinda coin then that may run up to $100 depending on the "look", toning, thick, original skin, etc.

I personally would not buy less than a solid 66 for this date.

SYRACUSIAN

I have a colorful gem 1914 franc and 1/2 franc at PCGS as we speak. Mac's right, 1914 is not nearly as easy as 1920, but the price is so low that I'd keep it.


Eric, PM me if you're interested, the half franc will definetely go, and I'm still undecided on the franc.

spoon

Hmm.. I dunno...

These are the kinda things that really bug me. It is indeed a nice coin, good lustre.. but the damage just annoys me now. I think it's gonna have to go.

Thanks for the advice and comments, all!