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AU or MS? Compare these two Buffalo Nickels
Moki
Posts: 259
I think these two buffalo nickels make for an interesting
comparison and are examples in evaluating
whether there is enough “wear” to knock a Mint State coin
down in grade to an Almost Uncirculated coin.
Obviously, it would be ideal to have the coins in hand
to make such an evaluation.
1917 Buffalo PCGS AU58
PCGS list price: about $50
1914-D Buffalo NGC MS64
PCGS list price: $660
Have the graders of each of these coins reasonably applied
the same discriminating criteria in their determination of grade?
Do you agree with the grader’s determination of each coin?
Regardless of price or rarity, which coin would you rather own?
If the coins were cracked out and each sent to the other service
for grading, what do you predict the result would be?
These coins are featured in E-bay auctions by greattoning
whom I have no affiliation with except as occasional customer.
The pictures and initial discussion of the 1917 Buffalo is in this thread from a
couple of weeks ago Why is This 1917 Buffalo Graded AU?
comparison and are examples in evaluating
whether there is enough “wear” to knock a Mint State coin
down in grade to an Almost Uncirculated coin.
Obviously, it would be ideal to have the coins in hand
to make such an evaluation.
1917 Buffalo PCGS AU58
PCGS list price: about $50
1914-D Buffalo NGC MS64
PCGS list price: $660
Have the graders of each of these coins reasonably applied
the same discriminating criteria in their determination of grade?
Do you agree with the grader’s determination of each coin?
Regardless of price or rarity, which coin would you rather own?
If the coins were cracked out and each sent to the other service
for grading, what do you predict the result would be?
These coins are featured in E-bay auctions by greattoning
whom I have no affiliation with except as occasional customer.
The pictures and initial discussion of the 1917 Buffalo is in this thread from a
couple of weeks ago Why is This 1917 Buffalo Graded AU?
0
Comments
I probably wouldn't question NGC's MS64 on the 1914-D, either, but it's a fine line. You're right that such a determination would have to be made with the coins in hand. That NGC piece certainly looks like one that could've been AU58 with just the tiniest additional rub- just passing through one more pocket, for example. It's obviously housed in a somewhat scuffy holder, too, and many of the scratches we see are obviously in the plastic.
Both are very handsome pieces.
Collector since 1976. On the CU forums here since 2001.
K S
But, that's just me.
raz
I think the grades are spot on. Before looking at the entire slabs, my grades were the same as theirs.
Great coins though! Beautiful colours.
wes
Too many positive BST transactions with too many members to list.
Edited to add: I thought I saw a pretty good strike on the 17, but in looking at the 14, I see what may be a rub on the Indian and a rub on the reverse buffalo's hump. I guess it could just be strike weakness. Got me.
<< <i> I think the grades are right on the mark. The 1917 has a great strike but slight wear, while the 1914-D has a decent obverse strike (terrific reverse) and no wear. As for the colors, I think they're a bit over the top. >>
I couldn't have said it better. Based on the images, both coins look to be graded correctly.
<< <i> two coins, side by side, same identical condition - if one exhibits toning (natural corrosion), it now commands a significantly higher price. Amazing - how the herd follows... toning, TPG's, etc., etc., >>
Ricko - I'm not sure this is a fair statement. When the toning (natural corrosion) is attractive, I see nothing wrong with the coin deserving a small premium. Especially in comparison to a dipped out, blast white example. However, if by toning you're referring to coins with crazy neon colors, deep dark colors, or mottled splotches, then yes, such a coin deserves zero premium or should even be sold for less than an untoned example.