Lowball Lexington-Concord Half Dollar - PO-1? Update - Coin Received

Can you enlarge those pics for us?

Comparing it against the AG-03 presented in the "Days of..." thread, my eyes do see more wear. It could very well grade as a FR-02, but I think a bit too much of the inscriptions can still be seen at the rim to go as low as PO-01. (This assumes it is a problem-free coin.)

nickelsearcher and Not Mint To Be are the experts here, however, so I hope either or both stop by and offer their thoughts.

This example is definitely more worn than my PCGS AG03 example previously shown.

Assuming the surfaces are original, I believe it would grade at FR02. In my judgement there is too much legend remaining for it to grade at PO01.

I'm interested in your views on the surfaces once you have the coin in hand. One of the collecting challenges for these coins in circulated state (other than availability) is surface condition. Original surface coins are the exception alas.

Best of wishes for your continued searching.

@EDM: Check out this thread to view a large number of well-worn US commemorative coins:

- Days of Classic US Commemorative Coins

Coin arrived today! Unfortunately, my picture taking skills are lacking, so the seller's pictures will have to do.

It looks great in hand, a true lowball with honest wear and good surfaces except for one thing....

The coin is bent. In retrospect, this can be seen with the pictures - I've circled the areas in red where it is unevenly worn.



This would probably get a details grade, then?

I'm rather disappointed, if I'm being honest. I'm considering returning it, but the likelihood of finding another of these raw in such a circulated state seems slim.

@nickelsearcher, not mint to be - would you keep such a coin in your collections?

I am torn between recouping the cost to spend on a hopefully problem free example and keeping this one as a most definitely well-circulated commemorative.

I'd appreciate any thoughts you all might have.

Thanks,

TSS

Absolutely not if your long term goal is a collection of honestly circulated (problem free) examples of these tremendous coins.

When I discussed above the reality that the majority of circulated commemoratives have surface issues, it was not just prior cleaning that I was referring to.

Graffiti, cleaning, holed, wizzed, and yes even bent are all common surface conditions alas.

If the cost was minimal and you enjoy having the coin then by all means keep it. You have the privilege of setting whatever standards you wish for your collection.

To me, that is a dishonest seller who did not disclose this condition and I would send it back and block their listings.