The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale is a 70-point system used to assess the condition and quality of coins, ranging from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State). The scale was originally developed by Dr. William Sheldon in 1949 to grade large cents but was later modified and adapted to grade a wide variety of US coins, [according to the Great American Coin Company].
The Sheldon scale divides grades into two main categories: circulated coins and uncirculated coins (Mint State or Proof).
- Grades 1-58 (Circulated): These grades indicate coins that have been in circulation and show varying degrees of wear. The grades range from Poor (P-1), where the coin is barely identifiable, to About Uncirculated (AU-58), where there is only minimal wear on the highest points and significant original mint luster remains. Other grades in this range include Fair (FR-2), About Good (AG-3), Good (G-4 to G-6), Very Good (VG-8 to VG-10), Fine (F-12 to F-15), and Very Fine (VF-20 to VF-35).
- Grades 60-70 (Uncirculated): These grades are for coins that have no signs of wear.
– Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70): Coins originally minted for circulation but never used. Grades MS-60 to MS-63 have minor imperfections, while MS-64 to MS-67 show progressively fewer marks. MS-68 and MS-69 are exceptionally preserved with minimal imperfections visible only under magnification. MS-70 is a flawless coin, perfect even under magnification.
– Proof (PR-60 to PR-70): Special coins made for collectors with sharp details and mirror-like surfaces. These grades are similar to the Uncirculated grades but for coins not meant for general use.
Several factors contribute to a coin’s grade, including its luster, how well it was struck, its surface quality (lack of marks or scratches), and overall eye appeal.
The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale, now modified and used by professional grading services like NGC and PCGS, provides a standardized system for evaluating coin quality and determining value.
Is PR70 better than MS70?
PR70 coins are typically more expensive than MS70 coins due to their superior quality, limited mintage, and the meticulous minting process involved, making them more desirable to collectors.
Who is the most reputable coin grading company?
I can help with that. High grade coins are rarer than low grade coins. Collectors pay more for coins in higher grades. The two most trusted coin grading companies are NGC in Sarasota, FL and PCGS in Newport Beach, CA. Those are the only two companies Coinappraiser.com uses to grade coins.
What is the scale for coin grading?
Thanks for asking. Coins are graded on a scale of 1-70, starting with 1 on the lowest end of the spectrum, and 70 representing the most pristine example possible. There are multiple grading companies that will evaluate your coins and encapsulate them in a sealed plastic holder with the assigned grade printed on a label.
What does MS 60 and MS 63 mean in coins?
Choice Uncirculated (MS-63) – A coin with some distracting contact marks or blemishes in prime focal areas. Luster may be impaired. Uncirculated (MS-60) – A coin that has no trace of wear, but which may show a number of contact marks, and whose surface may be spotted or lack some luster.