How Come When A Cataloguer Says "Not" That's Exactly What It Is?

Coinosaurus

Like, if a cataloguer says a coin is "not dark," you know the coin is going to be dark.

Shamika

breakdown

Yep, and lots of code words to learn.
"Original" usually means ugly.
"Marks consistent with grade" means banged up, should be a grade or two lower.
"Strike less than full as is the norm for this date" means flat as a pancake.

Coinosaurus

<< <i>
"Original" usually means ugly.
>>



I think "crusty" means the same thing.

savoyspecial

Great thread, and so often true but I will say that every so often you find a cataloguer with a high level of candor and forthrightness......James Garcia of Scotsman comes to mind

lkeigwin

So true. It's because the cataloguer knows exactly what we will pick up on first. The eyesore that is "out of the focal range and forgivable". The mottled toning that is "unspoiled and original". The gash that trashed the grade on an otherwise gorgeous example.

Put it out there with the hope that collectors will accept it and move on to aspects worthy of their bid. LOL.
Lance.

PerryHall

<< <i>Yep, and lots of code words to learn.
"Original" usually means ugly.
"Marks consistent with grade" means banged up, should be a grade or two lower.
"Strike less than full as is the norm for this date" means flat as a pancake. >>



"Blast white" usually means dipped.

WinLoseWin

One of my favorites is "________ in no way detracts from the overall beauty of the piece". With ________ being: spot; nick; scratch; corrosion; hole; ax mauling, etc.