there is a lot of variation in these 1870's half pennies , I have only ever really concentrated on the early 1860's but this thread has opened my eyes ...thanks
Deffo J2. Thinness or otherwise of date numerals is misleading except on near-unc coins: as the coin wears, the numbers and letters naturally broaden as the high points flatten.
I don't think over grading helps any seller in the long run. You just mentally end up lowering the grade by half grade before you even start at looking at the coin.
So here are my pics, I'd rate the coin as a straight VF, which is pretty much above the average for this rare piece. I'd already got one, but it's only VG, and cleaned to within an inch of its life.
Once again Ian, thanks.