Just as many old coin collectors, I got out when these nonsensical grades started being the rage. If I need a strike for my collection, I will make up my own mind if it's good enough to be purchased. I agree with Janice and Archie that no one can ever tell, it's simply in the eye of the beholder.

My personal opinion is that no strike can be assigned an MS 70 or any really high grade because they aren't proofs and were never intended to be such. Frequently they lack the great detail and polishing of the special proof strike of a coin. Mr. Katz disagrees and will assign a PL-70 or such#.

Another problem we discussed is marking down for cleaning a strike. Many collectors do clean or have purchased cleaned strikes. I think they look terrific for the most part. Mr. Katz said they should be downgraded because they lack "originality" in their beauty and luster.

By the way, anyone with a McCarran Blackjack Spades assigned a 30 grade, I'll be happy to pay $75.