Realcent.org

Hey guys and gals,
So when you're grading you coins, and there's obvious toning or discolouration, how much does this affect the grade of the coin, if at all. Suppose a coin is looking EF, so much as the hairlines are crisp and very little wear at all on the high points but there the mint lustre had faded or there's just some age toning, does this coin still grade EF or does it drop it down a grade?
My thoughts are that it doesn't affect the grade. Your thoughts or opinions...

If it's NT or Natural toning, no it doesn't effect it.. AT or Artificial Toning does and usually won't slab, or it will net a details grade.. Sometimes if the toning is heavy it may not grade as high because the tone hides things

I think it depends on the series as well. I've seen Morgan dollars with rainbow toning go for perhaps 2-4 times the untoned prices at major coin shows (both on the floor and in auctions). Yet the exact same toning on a Peace dollar or other series doesn't seem to mean nearly as much.

My comment on the prices was from shows several years ago. Can anyone update this with details from more recent shows?

I agree with the other comment regarding natural vs. artificial toning.

Another aspect of toning is that many years ago toning didn't cause a coin to really carry a premium. So the elevated prices for toned coins have a bit of a faddish feel. I can't prove that- it is just a hunch.

Does natural toning affect the grade? No, at least it shouldn't on a strict technical basis. Whether or not it affects the value is in the eye of the beholder!

"... the elevated prices for toned coins have a bit of a faddish feel. I can't prove that- it is just a hunch."

Could be a fad, could also be an evolution in the coin market. I lean towards thinking its here to stay to some extent because people at the high end of the coin market want things that are unique and impressive, versus just good grade coins to fill holes.

I just can't get excited about natural (or artificially-induced toning). So what?

Some collectors have been experimenting with artificial toning on a successful basis.

Personally, I just don't buy coins for my collection that are sold on the basis of "outstanding toning."

Some might consider artificial toning to be a bit like counterfeiting (or at least in the same family).