The term “MS” in coin grading stands for Mint State , indicating a coin that has never been circulated and therefore shows no signs of wear. The MS grading scale, part of the larger [Sheldon Scale] (which ranges from 1 to 70), is used for grading uncirculated coins and ranges from MS-60 to MS-70.
Here’s a breakdown of the Mint State (MS) grades:
- MS-60: A coin that has not been circulated but may have significant imperfections such as bag marks, a weak strike, or lack of luster.
- MS-61: Similar to MS-60, but with a slightly weaker strike or heavier imperfections.
- MS-62: An uncirculated coin with noticeable deficiencies, potentially with clusters of small marks or dim luster.
- MS-63 (Choice Uncirculated): An above-average uncirculated coin with fewer deficiencies than lower uncirculated grades and relatively ordinary eye appeal.
- MS-64 (Choice Uncirculated): An uncirculated coin with moderate distracting marks or deficiencies, generally having average to above average eye appeal.
- MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated): An uncirculated coin with strong mint luster, very few contact marks, and excellent eye appeal.
- MS-66 (Gem Uncirculated): An uncirculated coin with only minor distracting marks or imperfections and full mint luster.
- MS-67 (Superb Gem Uncirculated): An uncirculated coin with only the slightest distracting marks or imperfections and exceptional eye appeal.
- MS-68 (Superb Gem Uncirculated): An uncirculated coin with perfect luster and no visible contact marks to the naked eye.
- MS-69 (Near-Perfect Mint State): An uncirculated coin that is nearly perfect, with only minuscule imperfections visible under magnification.
- MS-70 (Perfect Mint State): The highest possible grade, indicating a flawless coin with no imperfections or marks visible even under magnification.
- Mint State (MS) applies to uncirculated coins , meaning they were never used in circulation and do not show wear.
- MS grades range from 60 to 70 , with higher numbers indicating better condition.
- MS-70 is the perfect grade , signifying a coin with no flaws visible even under magnification.
- The differences between Mint State grades are determined by factors such as strike, luster, surface quality, preservation, and eye appeal.
- Professional grading services like PCGS and NGC utilize the Sheldon Scale and MS grading to evaluate and encapsulate coins, adding confidence for collectors and investors.
What does MS60 and MS63 mean in coins?
Thanks for asking. 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.
Is MS-65 a good grade?
Gem Uncirculated (MS-65, 66): Minimal markings or imperfections, a nice original look with a good strike showing detail on the high points of the coin. Superb Gem Uncirculated (MS-67, 68, 69): Exceptional coins with only miniscule imperfections, a lot of “eye appeal” and a good strike.
Is PR70 better than MS70?
I can help with that. 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.
What is the difference between MS 64 and MS-65?
Although MS-64 grade coins are just as historically significant, some collectors prefer MS-65 or higher grade coins. These tend to have fewer imperfections and to be a little more attractive.