CC, if you're talking about the large bust 25c, then yes absolutely you can tell the difference between a PL and a high MS coin, with ease.
The soft mint bloom of the MS coin is quite a contrast to the flat, "cold", "black" surfaces of the coin from a set. I don't believe there is any way to "fake" natural business strike mint luster. Photo credit goes to a member here for the MS-64 on the right.

The soft mint bloom of the MS coin is quite a contrast to the flat, "cold", "black" surfaces of the coin from a set. I don't believe there is any way to "fake" natural business strike mint luster. Photo credit goes to a member here for the MS-64 on the right.





















