The Sheldon Grading Scale is a widely accepted standard for determining the condition and value of coins, including pennies. This scale ranges from 1 (Poor) to 70 (Perfect Mint State).
Here’s a breakdown of the common penny grading categories and their characteristics, based on the Sheldon scale:
These grades reflect varying degrees of wear from everyday use. They range from PO-1 (Poor), where the coin is barely identifiable, to AU-58 (Very Choice About Uncirculated), showing only bare traces of wear on high points with nearly full luster. Specific grades in between indicate increasing levels of discernible detail and decreasing wear.
These grades denote coins that have never been used in circulation. MS-60 (Mint State Basal) indicates an uncirculated coin that may have blemishes. Higher grades, such as MS-65 (Mint State Choice) and MS-70 (Mint State Perfect), represent coins with minimal to no contact marks and excellent eye appeal.
Beyond the standard grades, some additional factors influence a penny’s overall grade and value, including the sharpness of the strike, the original luster, coloration or toning, and overall eye appeal. Copper coins are also graded for color as red (RD), red/brown (RB), and brown (BN). Contact marks from other coins can also affect the grade.
Note: Professional coin grading services like PCGS [(Professional Coin Grading Service)] and NGC [(Numismatic Guaranty Company)] use these standards to evaluate and encapsulate coins.
What are penny grades?
This changed to the letter grading system beginning with the lowest grade – Basal State (also Poor (PO)), then continuing Fair (Fr), About or Almost Good (AG), Good (G), Very Good (VG), Fine (F), Very Fine (VF), Extremely Fine (EF), Almost or About Uncirculated (AU), Uncirculated (Unc) and up to Brilliant Uncirculated …
Is xf or vf better?
Extremely Fine, or XF is an adjectival grading term used to describe coins that show some wear from circulation but still exhibit full details and are in above-average condition. The Extremely Fine adjectival grade is between the Very Fine (VF) and About Uncirculated (AU) grades.
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.