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| TO COLLECTIBLES The ANA COIN GRADING SCALE |
Most United States coins are graded with a scale created by the American Numismatic Association, a non-profit group created in 1891 and chartered by Congress in 1912.
The lowest grade on this scale is About Good - AG-3, the highest, Perfect Uncirculated - MS-70.
Below is a summary of that grading scale. For complete details and illustrations of all U.S. coins in each grade, Please see Official ANA Grading Standards for United States Coins. Professional Coin Grading Service PCGS, offers a very good On Line example of it. As well as very good sections on each coin. See site.
Proof: A specially made coin distinguished by sharpness of detail and usually with a brilliant mirror-like surface. Proof refers to the method of manufacture (a specially produced coin made from highly polished planchets and dies and often struck more than once to accent the design. Proof coins receive the highest quality strike possible and can be distinguished by their sharpness of detail and brilliant, mirror-like surface.) and is not a condition (the physical state of a coin), but normally the term implies perfect mint state, which is the same as uncirculated, unless otherwise noted and graded as below.
United States Mint Proof Set:
Uncirculated - The terms Mint State (MS) and Uncirculated (Unc.) are
interchangeably used to describe coins showing no trace of wear. Uncirculated coins are
struck using the same process as circulating coins, but with quality enhancements such as
slightly higher coining force, early strikes from dies, special cleaning after stamping
and special packaging.
United States Mint Uncirculated Set:
Uncirculated coins may vary to some degree because of blemishes, toning or slight
imperfections as described in the following subdivisions:
Perfect Uncirculated (MS-70). Perfect new condition, showing no trace of wear.
The finest quality possible, with no evidence of scratches, handling or contact with
other coins. Very few regular issue coins are ever found in this condition.
Choice Uncirculated (MS-65). An above average Uncirculated coin which may be brilliant or lightly toned and has very few contact marks on the surface or rim. MS-67 through MS-62 indicate slightly higher or lower grades of preservation.
Uncirculated (MS-60). Has no trace of wear but may show a number of contact marks, and surface may be spotted or lack some luster.
Choice About Uncirculated (AU-55). Barest evidence of light wear on only the highest points of the design. Most of the mint luster remains.
About Uncirculated (AU-50). Has traces of light wear on many of the high points. At least half of the Mint luster is still present.
Choice Extremely Fine (EF-45). Light overall wear shows on highest points. All design details are very sharp. Some of the Mint luster is evident.
Extremely Fine (EF-40). Design is lightly worn throughout, but all features are sharp and well defined. Traces of luster may show.
Choice Very Fine (VF-30). Light even wear on the surface and highest parts of the design. All lettering and major features are sharp.
Very Fine (VF-20). A moderate amount of wear is noticeable on the high points of the coin's design. All major details are clear.
Fine (F-12). The coin shows moderate to considerable even wear throughout. Entire design is bold with an overall pleasing appearance.
Very Good (VG-8). Well worn with main features clear and bold although rather flat.
Good (G-4). Heavily worn with the design visible but faint in areas. Many details are flat. Common coins in "Good" condition are not particularly desirable pieces for collectors. Rare or valuable coins in this condition, however, are often saved when no others are available.
About Good (AG-3). Very heavily worn with portions of lettering date and legends worn smooth. The date may be barely readable.