1853 Liberty Seated Half Dollar - NGC Grade Revealed!

NGC graded this an XF45! I agree with the comments regarding the reverse, it does look mighty weak for a 45 grade, possibly a strike issue? The mark on Liberty's face is a ding, not a scratch so it wasn't detailed. The dark line running from Liberty's hat is just crustiness. I really liked this coin because it showed no signs of having been dipped, wiped or otherwise cleaned like so many are (and in problem free holders no less). This was in a recent Heritage auction up against another XF45 NGC graded '53 Half. The other one had dark album toning rings and a blast white center on the obverse (yet still was XF45 in terms of wear). It just looked wrong, and would you know, it sold for more. Sure the mark in Liberty's face is distracting, but in hand this coin shines! Thanks everyone for your comments, this coin marks the halfway point to my 6 coin seated type set (all major design variations in only 6 coins, each being a different denomination). I'm still lacking a Motto Dollar, No Stars Dime and a Twenty Cent. For the mintage, finding a nice 53 half dollar is quite a challenge and prices easily go above book at auction. It's one that is in high demand for type sets!

Sure looks a lot like mine, except mine is a New Orleans mint. Too bad I can't buy this off of you to go with mine. They go good together.

Maybe the coin was dipped at one time, but do any of you think this looks cleaned?