Real Capped Bust Half Or Not?

Honestly I am not sure I like it any better at all. It is a nice looking cleaned coin but if the one I bought looks like I think it will when I get it then I am happy with it. I am new to coins but I have been a photographer for a long time and am pretty good at figuring out what something is going to look like in hand.

After reviewing hundreds of photos of toned silver dollars today and reading the section relating to this coin in the ANA Grading Standards book I now feel better about this purchase, and if I am wrong about the overall eye appeal of this coin then I can send it back, but a toned coin is what I am looking for in a bust half dollar and if that tone and luster turns out right then the premium I payed is ok with me.

Can anyone give me pointers on why the toning on this coin may be unoriginal? I really would love to get the most information I can on this subject. Thanks.

1934 small date and letters PCGS genuine due to a minor staple scratch, ebay purchased for $185.





It does not have the electric colors but the strike on the reverse is eye popping. If the toning is why you purchased it great, I hope it continues to please you as this one does me.

DM,
You're on your way in one important respect...if you like it and it's in your budget, nothing anybody else says matters. Somewhere, there is somebody who would pay $400+ for that coin. Others wouldn't go half that. If you like toning, I think you'll be faced with this dilemma many times. Do you perhaps pay more than what some database or person thinks you should for a coin you really like, or do you pass and wait a day or a month or a year or more until something better comes along? Always your call. If I were you, I'd really be looking forward to that arriving. Hope it works out for you.

I heartily agree with OneBowl. It's your call, DM1975. The subject coin certainly fits your criteria.

Personally, I much prefer Muddler's coin, and I expect that a vast majority of this site's collectors would feel likewise; this, even if the cost was not a factor. The subject coin has problems in the sweet spot, central obverse, and there are a few fingerprints on the periphery. Regarding the shimmering toning, note that the white areas appear to lack that shimmer, they're a flat, matte white. This contrast is stark and makes me suspect that the toning is artificial and the coin was wiped in areas that the color was too deep. That said, pics can be deceiving ...

When you have the coin in hand, hold it to the light and see how the light "dances" on the surface. If it looks nice to your eye, it's a keeper. Just remember that when the time comes for you to part with it, potential buyers will scrutinize the coin. Advanced collectors tend to think about future "exit strategy."

Thanks. I will get some better photos up when I get it to see what you all think about it. I am not saying the other coin is not nice, it is just not what I was looking for right now. As for exit strategies, I understand that it probably will be hard to part with, but I don't tend to part with much of what I collect. If the concensus here is that this coin is bad then I will send it back. The return policy is for seven days and I would be out a total of about ten bucks for shipping if I do send it back. This was the only bust half I could find with the look I wanted though. I am sure eventually another one will show up, and probably even a better one. Like I said though, live and learn. I will just be wiser next time if anything.

They got the date wrong.

Thanks, I do have a lot to learn but I'm getting there. I just ordered the Coin Collectors Survival Guide so I hope that helps me out some.