How I Solved the AU58+ Capped Bust Coin Grading and Photo Display Challenge: A Step-by-Step Guide

I ran into this exact issue myself and spent hours figuring it out. Here’s the solution that finally worked for me.

Understanding the AU58+ Capped Bust Coin Grading Dilemma

When I first got my 1834 50c Capped Bust coin back from PCGS, I was thrilled. It had been in an NGC AU53 holder, but PCGS gave it an AU58+ with a POP 1 designation.

The coin was a luster bomb in hand—truly stunning. But the grading difference left me puzzled. Why did two top services see it so differently?

To make things trickier, sharing clear photos of the coin on forums was a struggle. The images always came out too small or blurry.

This guide walks through how I solved both problems. I’ll share practical steps so you can avoid the same headaches.

Why Grading Discrepancies Occur

Grading isn’t an exact science. Services like NGC and PCGS use slightly different criteria. Things like luster, surface quality, and strike sharpness can sway a grade.

In my case, the coin’s eye appeal likely pushed PCGS to rate it higher.

Here’s how I made sense of it all:

• Review grading guidelines: I studied NGC and PCGS standards for AU grades, focusing on wear and luster.
• Seek expert opinions: I asked trusted dealers and forum members for their take. Don’t assume one service is wrong without evidence.
• Document your coin: Take clear, high-res photos in good light. It helps you see details objectively.

Step-by-Step Fix for Displaying High-Quality Coin Photos

Sharing my coin’s beauty was a real challenge. Forum images often looked tiny and washed out.

After lots of trial and error, I found a method that works. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1: Capture High-Resolution Images

Start with great photos. Use a DSLR or a smartphone with a good macro mode. Lighting is key—I used natural light and a tripod to keep everything sharp.

Step 2: Optimize Images for Web Display

Forums compress images, which kills detail. Resize your photos to something like 1200×800 pixels. This keeps them clear but manageable.

I used free online tools since I don’t have Photoshop. They worked just fine.

Step 3: Upload and Share Effectively

Don’t rely on forum uploads. Host your images on Imgur or Google Photos instead. Then, use an embed code to show them full-size.

For example: <img src="your-image-url" alt="Coin Photo" style="width:100%;">

Step 4: Troubleshoot Common Issues

If images still look small, try right-clicking (or long-pressing on mobile) to open them in a new tab. Many people miss this simple fix.

For stubborn issues, check your forum’s settings. Some browsers also have extensions that force larger image displays.

Actionable Takeaways for Collectors

Here’s what I learned through this process. These tips can save you time and frustration:

• Always verify grades: Compare opinions from multiple sources before drawing conclusions.
• Invest in photography: Good images help with grading and sharing alike.
• Use external hosting: It bypasses forum limitations and keeps your photos looking great.

Wrapping Up

Dealing with grading differences and photo issues takes patience. But with the right approach, you can get clarity and share your coins beautifully.

These steps helped me confirm my coin’s grade and show it off properly. Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned collector, paying attention to these details makes all the difference.

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