Help Grade This 1960-D Large Date Lincoln

I know TBOP.. My scope gives the illusion that it's red brown, but it's cherry red. However, I thought the same thing ms-66! I would love for you to see this coin firsthand!

When I call up the PCGS website and look at previously graded coins and compare to the one in question that's where I fall off the bridge.

I count the contact marks, (including where they occur) the strength of strike, and what I think is luster. I do this from the rim to the center of the coin and to both sides. I have a much better idea of what it takes(but not quite there) to get a 67 coin. I just can't seem to make the leap to 67. Maybe I miss the obvious

Lighting is a bit problematic. I do appreciate the challenges of coin photography. Given the posted pics, I'm thinking MS65-66.

They will grad 65RD. In those days hard to have better from them. It is an fact.

too much contrast in your photos is hiding detail about strike especially obv photo where I cant see the hair detail. strike is all important to get the elusive 67. along with the hair its difficult to see how sharp the separation is between the tie and the lapel. I think the hair around the ear on the 67 looks sharper than yours and your ear is quite flat.

the rims look good on both sides. the biggest issue I see is the shoulder marks. I think the reverse is as good as or better than the 66+. you do have a little weakness on the left of them and a small mark on the last step.

I'm betting the color is more full red than the photos are showing due to the contrast. I have this one at MS66RD maybe a longshot at the +. I think its close but I dont think it can pull the 67 with the strike and shoulder.

Probably MS65...are those scratches on the obv. right field?

KK