The user is likely asking about the term “AU grade” in the context of coin collecting.
In numismatics (coin collecting), “AU” stands for Almost Uncirculated . It’s a grade used to describe a coin’s condition.
Here’s a breakdown of what “AU grade” means for coins:
- Slight Wear: AU grade coins show some light wear, but it’s typically limited to the highest points of the coin’s design.
- Original Luster: They still retain a good portion of their original mint luster (the shine or glow of a newly minted coin). Lower-end AU coins (like AU-50) might have less luster, while higher-end AU coins (like AU-58) retain almost all of it.
- Grading Scale: The AU grade on the Sheldon coin grading scale is typically designated with numbers ranging from 50 to 58. These grades are:
– AU-50: Traces of wear on nearly all the highest areas, with at least half of the original mint luster present.
– AU-55: Slight wear on the high points with minor friction in the fields. Luster can range from almost nonexistent to virtually full, but will be missing from the high points.
– AU-58: Virtually uncirculated, except for minor wear marks on high points. Nearly all mint luster must be present and must have outstanding eye appeal.
- Comparison to Other Grades: AU coins are generally more desirable and valuable than circulated coins with lower grades like Very Fine (VF) or Extremely Fine (EF), which show more wear. However, they are not as pristine as Mint State (MS) or Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) coins, which show no signs of circulation wear.
What’s better, AU or BU?
While many BU coins are more valuable than AU coins because of their detail and luster, AU coins may provide newer collectors with an option closer to their budget. While an AU coin will show some wear and lacking in full luster, these coins are still in collectible condition.
Is AU better than XF?
Extremely Fine (XF/EF-40, 45): Light wear, mostly on the highest points. Some of the original lustre is visible. About/Almost Uncirculated (AU-50, 53, 55, 58): Signs of wear on less than 50% of the design, and at least 50% of the original lustre.
What is the grade of AU currency?
Almost Uncirculated (or AU): An AU note will have one or more light folds that are not heavy in nature or obtrusive to the overall appearance. Three light vertical bends would be acceptable for this grade if they do not “break” the surface of the paper, but no more than two light folds may be present.
Is AU 55 a good grade?
I can help with that. No major detracting contact marks will be present and the coin will have attractive eye appeal and nearly full luster, often with the appearance of a higher grade. AU-55 (Also Choice About Uncirculated-55) – Only small patches of wear are visible on the highest points of the design.