The Coin Grading Scale

Before adding a new coin to their collections, coin collectors have to know what the coin’s “grade” is.  Coin grade can impact a lot of things ranging from collectible value to real-world value and more. Today, let’s break down the coin grading scale and what it means in detail.

What Is the Coin Grading Scale?

The coin grading scale (also called the Sheldon Grading Scale) is an international measurement scale used to determine the value of both coins in circulation and collectible coins. The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale was first used by the U.S. in the 1940s, and it was adopted by many other organizations shortly after.

The coin grading scale goes from 1 to 70. A coin grade of 1 means that the coin in question is in the worst condition possible. Meanwhile, a grade of 70 means that it is in perfect mint condition, including no imperfections after production, even when viewed at 5x magnification.

A coin grading scale is a useful tool for determining the value of coins for both collectors and for official economic organizations like the U.S. Treasury.

What Grading Standards Do Coin Dealers Use To Grade Coins?

Here’s a breakdown of what each coin grading standard means.

Poor

A coin with a "poor" grade means that the coin is barely discernible, and its details can't really be distinguished. It does not have a lot of value.

Fair

A “fair” grade means that the date and type of coin are barely discernible. Most of the major details can’t be identified, and the coin is very worn down or damaged.

About Good

An “about good” rating means that the date and type of coin are both discernible, although some surface spots or details could still be worn away.

Good

A "good" rating means that the main features and devices of the coin are evident, but the coin overall can still be heavily worn down.

Some coins receive a "Good-plus" rating, which means that the major devices (elements) can be identified, and the coin features a full rim or edge.

Very Good

A “very good” rating means that a coin has a full rim with clearly discernible features and devices. The legends on the coin can be read clearly but may still have some damage.

Fine

A “fine” rating means that the coin’s devices show detail. Even so, the coin is still moderately but consistently worn down.

Very Fine

A “very fine” rating means the coin is very clearly readable, the rooms are clean, and the devices show a good amount of detail. The coin does still show some moderate wear and tear on the high points of its relief.

Extremely Fine

An "extremely fine" rating means the coin's legends are very sharp, and the devices are clear, but there is some wear and tear on the highest points of the design.

About Uncirculated

An "about uncirculated" rating means the coin almost looks like it was uncirculated. The legends and devices look sharp, and there's just a trace of wear or rub marks on the highest point of the coin.

About uncirculated ratings can further be increased into two related ratings:

• Good about uncirculated ratings, which indicate that a coin’s legends and devices show the barest hint of wear on the highest points of the design. The coin should have at least half of its mint luster remaining, plus good eye appeal.
• Choice about uncirculated ratings, which means that they almost look like they were never circulated and have just slight wear marks on the highest points of their designs. Almost all of the original luster has to be present, and the eye appeal must be outstanding from start to finish.

However, any uncirculated rating is a good sign for a potential collector or auction buyer.

Uncirculated Coins

An "uncirculated coin" rating means the coin was indeed uncirculated. However, it may still have some minor damage or imperfections due to the minor handling it has received so far. Many bullion coins receive an uncirculated coin rating by default.

Brilliant Uncirculated

A coin with a “brilliant uncirculated” rating is the highest possible quality. These are mint condition coins and still have all of the initial luster they left the mint with originally.

“Proof” coins, which collectors highly prize, have coin grades from 60 to 70, and almost all are from the “brilliant uncirculated” rating bracket.

What Factors Affect a U.S. Coin’s Grade?

When examining and grading the U.S. coin, experts look at a variety of factors to determine a fair score and ranking within the above system.

Blemishes and Traces of Wear on the Lettering

First, experts will look at blemishes and other traces and wear and tear on the coin’s lettering. This is important because the coin’s lettering helps experts determine where and when the coin came from, which can impact:

• The concentration of precious metal in the coin
• The circumstances surrounding the coin’s minting
• Historical value
• And more

The more blemishes and wear and tear are present, the less valuable the coin is and the lower score it will receive.

Contact Marks and Hairlining

Contact marks accrue from the coin making contact with other coins or from making contact with fingers. These contact marks can wear down the coin’s finish or result in minor blemishes and imperfections on its surface. Hairlines are very fine scratches on a coin that can diminish its value and grade.

Toning and Other Color Issues

Some coins fade with time or may sustain damage that affects their tone or color. The highest-rated coins don't have any tone or coloration issues and may even include the mint luster they received when they were first minted.

Older coins, especially if they were put into circulation, often have color issues due to fading, the upper layer of material being worn away, etc.

Overall Eye Appeal

Lastly, coin grading experts look at the overall eye appeal of the coin. This includes considering the above factors and the design of a coin, such as which patterns or relief portraits the minters chose to use.

Some coins are valued by collectors purely because of the artistic quality of the designs on their faces. Those designs can certainly impact eye appeal and the overall grade or ranking a coin may receive.

Find Rare Coins for Your Collection

The coin grading scale is a great way to analyze and value collectible coins. Once you understand this 70-point scale, you'll be able to understand whether a new coin is worth adding to your collection.

Of course, you can also rely on coin dealers like Bullion Shark. Our experts have many years in this business, and our dealership has hundreds of high-quality, high-grade coins ranging from silver dollars to gold coins and more. Find the best new rare coins for your collection at Bullion Shark today.

Sources:

Sheldon Coin Grading Scale | Certified Coins | U.S. Money Reserve

Uncirculated Coins and How to Identify Them | The Spruce Crafts

Products & Coin Programs | FAQs | U.S. Mint Catalog

FAQ

What is coin grading?

Coin grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition or quality, often using a standardized scale, such as the Sheldon Scale. It determines a coin’s wear, luster, strike, and any imperfections, which ultimately influences its value.

What are the main coin grading scales?

The most widely used coin grading scale is the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. A grade of 1 represents a coin in the worst possible condition, while a 70 indicates a perfect, flawless coin. Coins may also be described with terms like "Good," "Fine," "Uncirculated," and "Proof."

How can I grade my coin?

To grade a coin, examine its overall condition, looking for wear, luster, and any marks or scratches. However, it’s recommended to have your coin professionally graded by a third-party service such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation) for an accurate assessment.

Why is coin grading important?

Coin grading is important because it determines a coin’s market value. A higher-graded coin is typically worth more to collectors and investors. Grading also helps authenticate a coin, ensuring its legitimacy and providing confidence to buyers and sellers.

What are the top coin grading companies?

The two most reputable coin grading companies are PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). Both companies use rigorous standards, offer encapsulation services (slabbing), and are trusted by collectors and dealers worldwide.

How much does coin grading cost?

Coin grading fees vary depending on the coin’s value, the service provider, and the grading tier selected. Costs can range from around $20 to several hundred dollars, especially for rare or high-value coins. Additional fees may apply for expedited service or special handling.

What does it mean if a coin is “slabbed”?

A slabbed coin is one that has been graded, authenticated, and sealed in a protective plastic holder by a third-party grading service. The slab includes the coin’s grade, description, and a certification number, ensuring the coin’s protection and authenticity.

What factors affect a coin’s grade?

The primary factors that affect a coin’s grade include its level of wear (if circulated), strike quality, luster, eye appeal, and any visible damage like scratches or dents. Uncirculated coins may still have flaws that affect their grade.

Can I trust coin grades from sellers or independent graders?

While some independent graders or sellers may offer honest assessments, it is safest to rely on well-known, reputable third-party grading services like PCGS or NGC for an unbiased and accurate grade. Coins graded by these companies are more widely accepted and valued in the market.

How does coin grading affect its value?

Coin grading directly impacts a coin’s value, as higher-graded coins are generally worth more. A rare coin in excellent condition (high grade) can be significantly more valuable than a similar coin in lower grade due to its better preservation and appearance.