How to Grade Coins

Grading is used to categorize the various stages of a coin's condition. Using a universal grading scale from 1 to 70, collectors can determine the condition of an coin and ultimately determine its value. When determining value, grading is one of the most influential factors, but not the only one. Rarity is another factor that also plays an important role.

Examples of Morgan Dollars in Good, Very Fine and Uncirculated, respectively.

Grading is by no means easy. It requires practice, so don't expect to master it on the first day. The guide below divides the 70-point grading scale into the 10 most frequently used categories and summarizes the requirements that must be met in order for a coin to receive that particular grade. Books written specifically on grading are recommended as an additional resource and can be found in our online store.

Poor (PR) - 2
Heavy wear. Barely readable date.

About Good (AG) - 3
High wear of the coin. Little or no detail visible. Partial date visible.

Good (G) - 4
High wear of the coin. Little detail visible. Full to partial date visible.

Very Good (VG) - 8
High to medium wear of the coin. Little detail visible. Full date visible.

Fine (F) - 12
Medium wear of the coin. Medium detail visible.

Very Fine (VF) - 20
Medium to little wear of the coin. Medium detail visible.

Extra Fine (EF/XF) - 40
Little wear of the coin. Medium to high detail visible. Low mint luster.

About Uncirculated (AU) - 50
Little wear of the coin. High detail visible. Medium mint luster.

Mint State or Brilliant Uncirculated (MS or BU) - 60 to 70
Absolutely no wear of the coin. High detail visible. High mint luster.

Proof (PF) - 60 to 70
A proof struck coin with no wear.