I was struck by the lack of marks on these nickles (pun intended), but I'm wondering what to look for in this series to see if these have "superior strikes," i.e. worth having graded. The 1883 No Cents has a textured look to the portrait that the 1901 doesn't have. The Reverses' photos weren't clear but I can post if needed.
That first one looks either a bit off center or a fake. I'm not sure what I think about it as the raised edge on the thin side looks off. The lack of marks is very nice if real.
Is there an equivalent to steps or bell lines or full head to look for in the series that signals a good strike?
No there isn't an equivalent to the to the FBL or the FH, though there is a reverse of 1900 and a reverse of 1902 on the 1901.Neither bring a premium but it is fun to try to cherry pick them. I also agree the coin's don't look right they look flat and lifeless
both of them have a kind of hazzy/milky toning on 80% of them but under it they appear almost proof-like and the '83 portrait seems almost cameo. Perhaps the toning gives it the lifelessness. Here's the reverses. They came from my grandfather so based on coins of his from the past, there is a possibility of cleaning... I should say that it's possible they were cleaned in the past! I'm thinking of sending them to NCS with NGC grading if they're gradable.
I'm about 99.9% sure the 1901 is the reverse of 1902 though can you get a bit better shot of the America? They are both excellent strikes with a tad weakness in the hair on both and star 3 on the 83.
I rarely see nice liberty nickels, those really allow you to appreciate the design. What is going on with the back of the second coin, all around 9 o'clock. Maybe it's just the quality of the pictures but it looks like plastic. Is that just an area where the luster has been worn off?
Thanks. That isn't something that's attributed on slabs, is it? I don't see the distinction in the pops. Do you want to venture a guess on the grade? I think it will be NGC via NCS.
