In coin grading, BU stands for Brilliant Uncirculated . It signifies a coin that has never entered circulation and retains its original mint luster and detail.
Here’s a breakdown of what that means:
- Uncirculated: This is the most crucial aspect of a BU coin. It means the coin has never been used as currency and therefore shows no signs of wear from handling or circulation.
- Brilliant: This refers to the original mint luster the coin still possesses. It should have the brilliant sheen and sharp details it had when it was first struck at the mint. While some might mistakenly believe the “B” stands for “Beautiful,” it actually refers to this brilliant, unworn appearance.
- Pristine Condition: BU coins are considered to be in exceptional condition . They should have minimal damage, scratches, or wear marks.
- Original Luster: A defining characteristic is the retention of the original mint luster, which indicates the coin hasn’t been worn down by handling or exposure.
- Grading: BU coins are graded on the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. BU coins typically fall within the Mint State (MS) range, from MS60 to MS70 . MS70 is a flawless coin, while lower Mint State grades might have minor imperfections like bag marks or slight toning.
- Value: Because of their pristine condition and untouched state, BU coins are often more valuable than circulated coins. They are highly sought after by collectors and investors.
In essence, a BU coin is as close as you can get to holding a coin fresh from the mint.
Are BU coins worth more?
These terms can have a sizeable impact on a coin’s value. If there are two coins of the same type, year, and issue in the grades AU and BU, the BU coin will typically command a higher price than the AU coin. But it is also possible that an AU coin can be in better condition and hold more value than a BU coin.
How do you know if a coin is BU?
Thanks for asking. A coin described as BU means the coin is in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, meaning the coin has not been circulated and shows no signs of wear.