Coin Grading from G to MS-70: An Overview for Collectors

G (Good)

At the very base of the standard grading scale is G for Good. But don't be fooled by the term—pieces graded as "Good" are actually in pretty rough shape. A G coin has been heavily circulated, with significant wear across its surface. Most details are faint or completely worn away. So, only the major design elements are barely seen.

These ones may lack aesthetic appeal, but they can still hold historical significance. The value of a "Good" specimen depends on its rarity. For older or scarce ones, even in this worn condition, collectors will pay top dollar simply because so few examples remain.

VG (Very Good) and F (Fine)

Next on the ladder are VG (Very Good) and F (Fine) pieces. These ones are still noticeably worn but show more detail than those graded as "Good."

• VG (Very Good) specimens are a step above "Good." You can see more of the design, but they still have extensive wear. Major details, e.g., a face or prominent symbol, are visible but worn down.

• F (Fine) ones show moderate wear, but important features are much clearer. These have circulated heavily but still retain enough detail to be appreciated. You can identify patterns, faces, and lettering without too much difficulty or special coin grading services.

Read after this coin grading guide: Top 10 State Quarters Worth Money.

VF (Very Fine)

Specimens graded as VF (Very Fine) are a marked improvement from those in "Fine" or "Very Good" condition. These ones exhibit light to moderate wear but maintain much of their original detail. In a VF coin, you'll notice that most of the design elements are clear, though slightly worn on the highest points, e.g., a portrait's cheekbones or the wings of an eagle.

One in an average VF condition is often considered well-preserved despite seeing circulation, and collectors are generally happy to add them to their collections, especially if the piece is rare or witnessed a great moment from history.

XF or EF (Extremely Fine)

Those that fall into the XF (Extremely Fine) or EF (Extremely Fine) category have seen minimal circulation. Their wear is confined to only the highest points of the design; the rest remains sharp and detailed. You might see slight flattening on edges, but overall, it retains much of its original shine.

XF specimens are desirable to collectors because they aren’t quite uncirculated, but they still look beautiful and have an eye appeal, and they’re often more affordable than uncirculated examples of the same item.

AU (About Uncirculated)

AU coin grading is where numismatics shows only the slightest signs of wear, usually from limited handling rather than circulation. So, what does AU mean for coins? AU (About Uncirculated) specimens retain most of their original luster, and any wear is minimal, usually on the highest points.

Pieces graded AU-50 to AU-58 are nearly perfect. They show only tiny signs of use. They are ideal for collectors who want something that looks almost new but at a fraction of the price of an uncirculated piece. In fact, when comparing AU vs MS coin grading, the difference is sometimes so slight that it takes a trained eye to spot this appeal.

• AU-50: Shows more wear than higher AU grades but still retains a decent amount of luster.

• What is a 55 grade? It’s AU-55. Something between other areas, if looking at the design elements. 

• AU-58: This is the highest possible grade here. It shows only faint traces of wear. 

MS (Mint State)

Here, the perfection starts: Mint State. These specimens have never been circulated and show no signs of handling. They’re untouched by human hands.

“In 1948, Dr. Sheldon introduced a 1–70 grading scale, suggesting a ‘70’ coin should be worth 70 times more than a ‘1.’” 
— Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) 
Web page “Grading Standards”

MS pieces are graded on a scale from 60 to 70, with higher numbers for fewer imperfections:

• MS-60: What does MS 60 mean in coins? It’s the lowest grade in the category. While one has never been circulated, it may still have noticeable flaws, e.g., scratches, dull luster, etc.

• MS-61: Similar to the previous one, with fewer marks or slightly better luster. Still lacks visual attractiveness.

• MS-62: Noticeably cleaner than 60 or 61, but still has several large exceptions or dull spots. Luster begins to improve.

• MS-63: Average luster with moderate marks. MS 63 grade is attractive for type collecting, though clearly imperfect.

• MS-64: Above average luster. Eye appeal of the design improves; small handling features may be seen under light.

• MS-65: A much higher grade than the first one. This one will have fewer marks and better luster. MS65 coin grade is wanted by collectors and often command higher prices.

• MS-66: Sharper strike with high luster. MS 66 grade is really adored by many collectors.

• MS-67: Nearly flawless, with full luster and exceptional strike. Only very minor imperfections can be seen under magnification when looking at an MS67 coin grade specimen.

• MS-68: Outstanding strike and brilliant surfaces. Any tiny flaws are almost invisible without magnification. The MS 68 grade has an exceptional eye appeal.

• MS-69: As close to perfect as it gets. Flawless to the naked eye, with only the smallest marks seen under magnification. For example, you may see all the hairlines on the surface easily. 

• MS-70: This ones are in perfect condition with no flaws under magnification. The design is untouched. They are exceptionally rare and often fetch the highest prices (above average sums).

XF-AU Coin Grading and Other: Examples of Transition Zones

The areas between XF (Extremely Fine) and AU (About Uncirculated) is often called as the "transition zone." Specimens in this range show light wear, but their details remain sharp, and they retain much of their original luster. This is a desirable position for many collectors.

After AU BU coin grading (Brilliant Uncirculated) goes. This refers to a piece that has never been in circulation and retains its original brilliance and luster from the minting process. It shows no signs of using, although it may have minor imperfections, e.g., bag marks from handling during minting. BU specimens are often further graded using the Mint State coin grading chart scale.

Top 5 Coin Graders

Coin grading system is important for every average collector who wants to make informed decisions about their collection. Every grade has its place in the world of numismatics: G AU MS coin grading, and all the other. 

Now that you know the entire scale, including what is AU in coin grading, you can confidently assess your collectibles and appreciate the subtle differences in each design that make each grade specific. 

But where can you go for grading coins at a professional level?

1. PCGS – Famous for consistent work and high market trust. Those graded by PCGS often sell at premium prices.

2. NGC – Grades U.S. and world specimens with strict standards and is accepted by major auction houses.

3. ANACS – The oldest service in the U.S. which is respected for reliable and accurate positions.

4. CAC – Evaluates pieces already graded by PCGS or NGC and puts their stickers on those that meet higher quality for their grade.

5. ICG – Offers dependable services with clear holders and faster turnaround, often chosen for practical use and affordability.

Related Coin Value Guides

• How to Know If a Coin Is Worth Money 
• Old Coins Worth Money
• Dollar Bill Errors Value 
• Best Numismatist Magazines
• Uncirculated Sets Value
• Who Is on the $10 Dollar Bill?