How Would You Grade This 1876 Twenty Cent Piece

I am really discouraged. As a newer collector, I am obviously not able to recognize a "harshly cleaned" coin. For example, on this coin, the detail looked good except for what I thought were bag marks, and the color didn't appear unusual. Perhaps if you could share more specifically what you are seeing, I could better learn to attend to the more important details. Thanks.

I wouldn't worry too much about the colour. If you look at the "white" 2x2 it is in this is also very grey so I think it may just be the photo/scan giving it a greyer than actual appearance.

It does look as if it has been cleaned though, simply because it is almost too clean for a coin of that age which has clearly had quite a bit of circulation.

Personally, and aside of the factors for not cleaning a coin, I prefer them this way.

If it is a coin for my collection and not as an investment, or for resale, I would rather have a bright clean coin than a grubby tarnished one to look at for the rest of my life.

That is just my opinion and will be shot down in flames by the "Never clean a coin or the wrath of God will be upon ye" brigade!

I don't see evidence of "harsh" cleaning on this coin. There are some contact marks in the left obverse field but no obvious hairline scratches from an abrasive cleaning. There are a couple specks of dirt around the obverse stars and in the loop of the 6 in the date. Perhaps the coin was dipped to remove tone or dirt and these specks are all that remained. The surfaces appear dull with no luster, but overall it has a decent look.

I think it might make EF-40 for grade. Check out the following Heritage images; these are of a coin graded VF-35 by PCGS which sold for $460 in August, 2008. The coin you are considering has stronger detail but a somewhat less-original look.

If the seller has a decent return policy and the price is attractive to you, I'd go for it. This is a scarce coin and I'd love to have one in my collection. Once you have it in-hand you can look for defects that may not be apparent in the photos.

Good luck, and let us know what happens!

FYI, the 20-cent piece design has one odd feature that complicates grading. LIBERTY is in relief on these coins, while it is recessed (incuse) for all the other Seated Liberty dnominations. Therefore, it wears down much faster than on the other denominations. A VG 20-cent piece will usually have no trace of LIBERTY remaining. A VF coin may have some letters barely visible. An EF should have all letters clear, but not necessarily sharp.

All opinions are appreciated, and all appear to have some validity. I have decided to pass on the coin, mostly because of price for the grade range. I will keep searching, and let you know if and when I come up with another of these rarities.