A grid like that is always more eye-catching to me when it is painted white and I don't think that's a good thing since it isn't particularly decorative. Black seems like it would be eye-catching in a different way - but again, not a good way.

Silver or gold metallic paint might be a compromise. It also doesn't glob up like regular paint so the stripping work would not be a waste. My 1930s vintage radiators in my 1880s vintage house have only ever been metallic gold painted and I continued that - it's much less maintenance and easier than regular paint. And spray painting them works great, in thin coats so it doesn't drip. Rustoleum in a can comes in several shades.

I would just briefly wire brush the dirty back and call it done.

If it were me I'd go with whatever the original color was. If you go over it lightly with a few coats of spray paint it'll probably turn out great.

thanks for the suggestions - spray paint it is - it seems like the last 2 colors were gold and silver, so i may do some type of metallic.

I will post up pictures when i am done :)