Guide
Coin grading explained
Condition is the biggest price factor after rarity. Grading puts it into a common language that collectors and dealers worldwide understand.
The grades in plain words
| Grade | What it means |
|---|---|
| Poor / Good | Heavily worn, design outlines still visible |
| Very Good / Fine | Clear wear, main details visible |
| Very Fine | Moderate wear on the high points |
| Extremely Fine | Light wear only on the highest points |
| About Uncirculated | Traces of wear, most lustre still there |
| Uncirculated / Mint State | No wear; marks only from the minting process |
| Proof | Special striking with mirror fields for collectors |
The 70-point scale
In the United States and increasingly worldwide, coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from 1 to 70, introduced by William Sheldon in 1949. MS-60 to MS-70 stand for uncirculated coins, 70 for a perfect one. European dealers often use their own terms, such as ss/vz/st in German or TB/TTB/SUP in French.
Grading services
PCGS (founded in 1986) and NGC (founded in 1987) are the best-known third-party grading services. They authenticate the coin, grade it and seal it in a holder with a certificate number. That makes buying and selling much easier – but it costs a fee per coin.
When grading pays off
- For coins that could be worth several hundred dollars or more.
- For key dates and gold coins, which are often faked.
- Before selling online, where buyers can't see the coin.
Not sure your coin is worth it? Start with a free estimate.
Frequently asked questions
Can I grade a coin from a photo?
Only roughly. Lustre, fine scratches and cleaning are hard to judge in photos. Our estimate gives an indicative grade in plain words.
Does grading increase the value?
It doesn't change the coin, but it makes its condition and authenticity credible – which often gets a better price for valuable coins.
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