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Sorry but I have to differ. With reference to Rotographics Standard Guide to Grading British coins I would grade the example of the 1924 sixpence at at least EF with the other example at UNC. I would give the higher grading as the wear on the King's ear is minimal and on the obverse the lion's nose has a similar amount of wear. As this is a 1924 dated coin the mint quality was beginning to improve and a coin in this condition minted in 1922 or earlier would probably be graded higher.

Personally I don't think its too lenient - of course grading can be very subjective but I think this book does an excellent job overall and is a must have for any new collector. I still refer to in now and then myself and it is the only book on grading I ever recommend to anyone who asks for my advice.

Probably not because it's so subjective, but nothing will be 100% in this area. I think it's a great gateway book into grading however, and while some grades might not be bang on the money it definitely helps you to get a general feel of high areas that wear on a design and what to look for. Also don't forget it's Chris' baby, so don't expect a ton of criticism of his book on his free site

I think the basic problem is the number of dies that were made. Unless you have a definitive study of the coinage, then there will always be differences which you have to try an differentiate between kosher and suspect. The shilling jewels just looked too bulky for my liking. This however, may be a timing difference because the Spink plate and OP coins are 1554, whereas the one I posted is 1555. Also, copies tend not to embellish detail. The P&M was from DNW 10 or 12 years ago but I don't have anything before that. The surfaces weren't very nice in any case - it had clearly been dug. I don't have this any more as I couldn't live with the scratch etc. The weight was ok. The testoon was ex Noble sale 1973 and one of Ras' lists. As you said, ideally you need them in hand.

Tom , you words have pushed me to the purchase , sod the bank account

Obviously, I'm not advising you to go crazy Swanny. But I learnt from my Dad that sometimes when you see something you really want, you just have to go for it. Actually, it was the few things he didn't buy and regretted ever after that taught me! Providing you've made a good purchase, in 5 or 10 years time the price will be forgotten (or at least irrelevant), but hopefully the pleasure of owning your coin will still be there. .

I would grade as ef but really on a small coin it is really dificult to grade without having it in hand

I would have put it at EF myself for the same reasons as ozjohn

Nice price , I would have paid that