It sounds like a very educated comparison between the two razors. I think that is awesome for a beginner. I think the Gold dollar is a perfect razor to learn how to strop and hone on. After all it was shave ready to begin with. I'm also thinking about collecting one myself. Honing is the only thing in the learning curve that has not come easy to me. I have a Dovo myself, it was my first straight razor and I love it. It's a Bergischer Lowe 5/8 spanish point with Black Buffalo horn scales. Well, take care and good luck. Oh yeah, welcome to the brotherhood.