In coin grading, MS70 refers to the highest possible grade a coin can receive on the Sheldon grading scale. It stands for “Mint State 70,” meaning the coin is in perfect, unblemished condition as it left the mint, with absolutely no signs of wear, handling, scratches, or contact with other coins. This standard holds true even when examined under 5x magnification.
It’s important to note that while MS70 indicates a perfect coin in terms of its condition, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s rare or inherently valuable from a numismatic perspective. Modern bullion coins, for instance, are often graded MS70 due to their pristine production and immediate handling by graders, but their value may be tied more to their intrinsic metal content (gold, silver, etc.) rather than their rarity as a coin issue.
However, for genuine numismatic coins, particularly those from rare issues, achieving an MS70 grade is exceptional and highly sought after by collectors. Such coins represent the pinnacle of quality and preservation for their type, and their value can be significantly higher due to their rarity and the high demand among collectors for flawless examples.
Leading coin grading services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) meticulously evaluate coins to determine their grade, and only a very small percentage of coins typically qualify for the MS70 designation. PCGS standards for MS70 allow for minor “as-minted” defects, provided they don’t impact the eye appeal, while NGC standards require no post-production flaws at 5x magnification. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for both collectors and investors to make informed decisions about buying and selling coins based on their grade and overall market context.
Are MS70 coins worth buying?
The implications of a coin being graded MS70 are profound. Not only does it command a higher market value, but it also holds immense desirability among collectors. Owning an MS70 coin is a testament to the highest standards of minting and preservation, making it a prized possession for any serious collector.
Is MS-70 a good grade?
I can help with that. Coins graded as MS70 are business-strike coins that are perfect as mint state, with no post-mint imperfections. Coin graded as MS70 represents the pinnacle of quality in this grading system.
Which is better, proof or MS70?
From my experience, Proof coins are made using a special process that yields an attractive finish with greater detail. MS-70 coins are also high-quality coins, but they are not considered as perfect as proof coins.
How rare are MS70 coins?
Thanks for asking. The perfect grade is MS-70 or Proof-70 and in many cases, they are not easy to come by. For example, we have clients that submit 1,000s of coins a year to PCGS and NGC, and depending on the coin issue, sometimes less than one in 1,000 get the perfect 70 grade.