Telling the difference between PF66, PF67 and PF68 is................

SanctionII

.............. not easy.

While making an inventory of my stash over the weekend, I pulled out and compared three PCGS slabbed proof Franklins. The coins are 1956, 1959 and 1961 and respectively are graded PF68, PF67 and PF66. The slabs are of different genearations, thus the coins were not slabbed at the same general time period.

Looking at the coins closely, I have to admit that I find it hard to tell the difference between the grades. None of the coins have hairlines. All three coins have devices that are frosted to some extent (the 1956 half was graded before PCGS gave out CAM designations and if regarded would receive a CAM designation), though I do not know if the presence or absence of frost on the devices has an impact on the numerical grade assigned (does it?). Besides the differences in the degree of frost on the devices, the only noticeable difference is that on the 1961PF 66, the mirror depth of the fields is not as deep as the fields on the other two coins.

Anyone have thoughts, comments? Thanks SanctionII.

MidLifeCrisis

I'm sure I would be unable to tell the difference as well.

I still don't quite understand how the substantial price increases often brought on by a 1 point increase in grade at these ultra-high levels is justified.

I understand the desire for perfection...but a 66 or 67 (and certainly a 68) is close enough to perfection for me!

Ahh, the registry...

lcoopie

I think the depth of mirrors has something to do with it?

but you might take out a strong light and look at it with a glass from all directions,
there might be some hairlines that are hard to see

I find proof grading to be much harder than business strike

MadMarty

That's what we have TPGs for!!!

rgCoinGuy

<< <i>That's what we have TPGs for!!! >>



I was expecting to see "Hillary will fix that next year" instead of this!

leothelyon

Besides the differences in the degree of frost on the devices, the only noticeable difference is that on the 1961PF 66, the mirror depth of the fields is not as deep as the fields on the other two coins.

Well, there you go!


Leo

tahoe98

and to think all those grades are..................................subjective!

SkyMan

This is why I never bought a PR69DCAM Frankie. IMO a high end PR68DCAM for the common Franklin years, 1956, '62 and '63 (and '64 Kennedys for that matter), makes a LOT more sense for a fraction of the price. I've been collecting Franklin cameos for 20 years now, but I know I can't tell the difference between a fair amount of the grades.

BECOKA

Have you tried taking them out of the slab and looking on the edges for imperfections.

DMWJR

This thread is worthless without pics.