1910 Rainbow

That coin is spectacular!

I see a freaky-looking little thing, Thad, I have to be honest with you. I'd probably have acquired it, too, though, at the right price, had I had the chance. It's certainly unique-looking toning you don't see on a '10, everyday. I could care less whether it was "induced" (and, I'm not saying I think it was). I do like it, though, it's just subtle enough to fit in my tastes. I wouldn't worry about that ear. From what I think I've learned, recently, from your experience on that flat, did-state, I honestly think a MS63, possibly 64, wouldn't be too out of the realm on this one.

PS: Send it to me and I'll let you know more particularly.

I'll tell you what, we'll split the difference: AU-63/64BN.

Seriously, I don't see any material evidence of circulation wear. I do see that flat area, top of ear, but I've seen that look before on these early cents and, without more, I'm inclined, now, to attribute that to the die. On the contact marks Adam had referenced, those are relevant once you cross that threshold, so to speak, and are resolved you're grading a MS coin (they're not circulation wear).

Overall, with that touch of color, the carbon spot at eye-level and the other very tiny one off the chin, that whatever-it-is going on left of date, and that scratch or lamination peel just under the N in CENT, I think this one is a cinch to "market grade" in the lower 60s. It's "hit," there's no question about that. But, that's what keeps it in that lower tier.

That's my analysis, anyway, off these pics. Let's just say it's on the line, now...

AU-58 seems just about right.

Love the toning!!

MS-63 if not wear on the reverse.
Jim

Purdy!

I'm going with MS-63. I think they are bag hits and I don't see the rub above the ear. It's always tough without having the coin in hand though. I love the rainbow halo!