Coin Grading Hub: Guides at Their Best

For numismatists, an understanding of how valuable their coins are is essential, though sometimes it might be particularly complicated to do it properly. In a large part, the worth of each instance is mainly dependent on its quality and condition, but how to assess coin types? This is where the coin rating system comes into play. Learn more about the main coin grading terms and take a look at some coin grading examples below.

Coin Grading Scales and Standards

Uniform and consistent grading standards are essential when it comes to assessing the condition and consequent worth of coins. The Sheldon Scale, created by Dr. William Sheldon in 1949, is currently the most widely used coin grading system in the world, and services dedicated to grading coins online or at special centers (e.g., PCGS and NGC as majors on the numismatic market) employ this knowledge with no limits.

Sheldon Grading Scale

As such, the Sheldon coin grading scale offers an accurate means of evaluating a coin's condition, which might range from extremely worn to pristine mint state. Along with a numerical evaluation, the Sheldon scale incorporates some descriptive terms for a more precise ranking:

ImageFeaturesDescription
Sheldon Grading Scale 1 (Poor)1 (Poor)A severely worn coin that is hardly distinguishable
Sheldon Grading Scale 20 (Fine)20 (Fine)A coin with distinct basic features and moderate wear
Sheldon Grading Scale 50 (About Uncirculated)50 (About Uncirculated)A coin that shows minor wear on its highest points
Sheldon Grading Scale 70 (Perfect Mint State)70 (Perfect Mint State)An immaculate coin with no flaws when magnified

Note: These grades are accompanied by prefixes such as AU (About Uncirculated) or MS (Mint State) to better define the coin's condition in the end.

Grading Terms You Should Be Aware Of

Indeed, this type of coin grade system guarantees fair and uniform evaluation, and relying on these scales as a customer, trader, investor, or collector may secure your money, promote open transactions, and build confidence in the numismatic community.

Coin Grades Explained:

Circulated Coins

ImageFeaturesDescription
Circulated Coins Poor (P-1)Poor (P-1)Barely distinguishable, with nearly all the details entirely gone
Circulated Coins Fair (FR-2)Fair (FR-2)Not quite as bad as poor, and the main forms are still discernible but quite deteriorated
Circulated Coins About Good (AG-3)About Good (AG-3)Extremely worn, with almost any primary details discernible
Circulated Coins Good (G-4 to G-6)Good (G-4 to G-6)Noticeable yet heavily worn major components
Circulated Coins Very Good (VG-8 to VG-10)Very Good (VG-8 to VG-10)More distinct but rather worn details, particularly in the raised parts
Circulated Coins Fine (F-12 to F-15)Fine (F-12 to F-15)Lightly flattened on high points with moderate wear on distinct key elements
Circulated Coins Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35)Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35)Moderate wear with some texture and crisper features remaining

Almost Uncirculated Coins

ImageFeaturesDescription
Almost Uncirculated Coins Extremely Fine (XF-40 to XF-45)Extremely Fine (XF-40 to XF-45)Excellent details, considerable shine, yet some wear on the highest points.
Almost Uncirculated Coins About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58)About Uncirculated (AU-50 to AU-58)Most of the shine is still present, with very little wear on the high points.

Uncirculated Coins (Mint State)

ImageFeaturesDescription
Uncirculated Coins (Mint State) MS-60 to MS-62MS-60 to MS-62Average uncirculated coins with obvious flaws or markings
Uncirculated Coins (Mint State) MS-63 to MS-64MS-63 to MS-64Better-looking, less-marked, above-average uncirculated
Uncirculated Coins (Mint State) MS-65 to MS-66MS-65 to MS-66Excellent uncirculated rating with a strong luster yet few flaws
Uncirculated Coins (Mint State) MS-67 to MS-69MS-67 to MS-69Excellent quality, almost perfect surfaces, and remarkable shine
Uncirculated Coins (Mint State) MS-70MS-70A flawless coin that appears immaculate when magnified

Coin Grading by US Coin Type

How to Grade Coins On Your Own?

So as to grade different types of US coins, all you need to do is utilize a magnifying glass, a light source, and any grading guide. Start by looking at the coin's overall state, pay attention to any signs of wear, imperfections, or markings, examine the strike quality and luster, and finally compare your results with the typical descriptions and illustrations that appear in reliable grading manuals or references.

Do you find it flabbergasting to learn how to read coins? Then use tools like Coin ID Scanner for a speedier evaluation. An easy and convenient way to grade your coin in an instant!