At the risk of inviting other bidders, look at this Maine Half.

It's in an old green holder and with the large pictures appears to be relatively mark free. Impressive considering the openness of the design where any post-strike contacts would be easily seen. As an MS65 the luster shows well and the color, while not "Monster" by any stretch, is probably a bit darker than the picture shws and pale-gold.
As I move forward with my commem collection, I'm paying more attention to the 1920's issues and trying to avoid anything after 1935, coins which should always be obtainable in gem grades and probably at better prices than what we're seeing for now. The earlier issues such as this Maine are harder to find with clean surfaces and unmottled tone. Color is an entirely different subject, with nicer examples currently priced higher then I'm willing to go.
Any opinions on this one, comments on the issue?? Thanks.
Al H.
As I move forward with my commem collection, I'm paying more attention to the 1920's issues and trying to avoid anything after 1935, coins which should always be obtainable in gem grades and probably at better prices than what we're seeing for now. The earlier issues such as this Maine are harder to find with clean surfaces and unmottled tone. Color is an entirely different subject, with nicer examples currently priced higher then I'm willing to go.
Any opinions on this one, comments on the issue?? Thanks.
Al H.

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Comments
<< <i>and trying to avoid anything after 1935, coins which should always be obtainable in gem grades and probably at better prices than what we're seeing for now >>
I hope that's the case with all the D mint Carvers. I kind of doubt it though.
Clankeye
what's up with the "D" mints?
al h.
They are real tough coins to find nice, and they are already so cheap in relation to other coins that I just can't see them getting even cheaper.
I have long felt the tougher Carvers are some of the best buys out there in commemoratives. People will say "but nobody likes 'em... I just can't sell them..." etc. etc. But I absolutely believe that is not always going to be the case, and that is a very short sighted view.
You know, there are enough 52 P's out there to practically give one to every school kid in America. But some of the other Carvers--are just tough to come by nice. And there will some day be more of an awareness of this IMO.
Clankeye
Oh, I won't be bidding. Just watching to see what it brings. I have my eye on a Maine in the Heritage FUN auction.
We'll use our hands and hearts and if we must we'll use our heads.