PCGS VF35 VS PCGS AU53 Barber Half
ARCO
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This is for fun, so take it easy already. The Barber Half thread asking about the 1901 Barber Half got me realizing that collectors here are definitely old-timers with grading standards from the 1950's (which isn't a bad thing).
Take a look for yourself. PCGS VF35 VS a PCGS AU53. Granted the PCGS AU53 is overgraded (IMO). It looks like a textbook XF40.
But, I just wanted all you to know that your grading stinks - in relation to the 1901 Barber half. 
2
Comments
That thing is a 45 all day long. Maybe a 50.
The other one is more like a 30
Empty Nest Collection
I am at 45 as well.
I see a 45 and a 40.
Presumably the 35 is on the left and the 53 on the right?
I'm of the generation that believes that AU should be interpreted literally as "almost uncirculated". Looking at the "53" with that in mind, can one honestly say that it meets that description? Of course, I also think "uncirculated" means exactly that and "gem" connotes a really standout thing, be it a coin or anything else. Perhaps we should use numbers only and leave the descriptive phrases in the past since they have lost their meaning. Grade on a continuum from 1 to 100 and let it go at that.
I see where you are going here. The coin on the right has more detail, but I like the look of the one on the left if the pic is accurate.
Yes.
I just sold this PCGS AU53. Looks nicer than the '01 to me, but maybe I am biased
The cheek and neck of the 01 throw it into the 40 range, but it's so nice otherwise that I grade it a 45. The 15 S shows more luster and perhaps an AU 50s grade.
This is a much better coin than the 1901 to me at least.
Left is EF, Right is also EF -- just nicer. Neither coin is AU. [But that was an expected comment....
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Just shows that one needs to buy the coin and not the holder.
Well, yours is what an AU53 should look like. I agree, yours is much nicer and meatier. It show goes to show that even the PCGS graders can get way off. I am not sure how you overgrade 15 grading points as a professional, but hey, it happens.
Wasn't 15 a stronger strike year?
A little more luster on the 15-S and it would be a 55.