Collecting Treasures : Grading Coins a Brief Introduction for Beginners
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By: Andrew Martin
 
Date Submitted: 2009-03-02 17:44:11 - Article Views: 20117
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The grade of a coin usually sums up the condition of the coin. The condition of a coin is the most important factor of it's value after the demand for that coin, and how rare that coin is. Usually, a coin with a higher grade, will also have a higher value. However, this is a generalization, so there is usually an exception. Because of this, coin collectors have designed their own system to describe the condition of a coin.
The grade of a coin depends on certain characteristics. For example, some of the factors involved in determining a coin's grade includes the surface condition, the strike, its appearance, and its luster. The absence of any one of these factors will decrease the value of the coin. In many cases, only a trained person can actually tell the differences in quality among coins because the difference are so subtle. In these cases, the final grade is usually a matter of opinion since even the experts might assign a different grade to the same coin.
The ability to grade coins accurately and consistently takes a lot of experience. However, even beginners can assign a reasonable grade to a coin if they follow a few guidelines. The American Numismatic Association's 0-70 point numeric system is often used to assign the grade of a coin.
The highest grade assigned to a coin is uncirculated. This can also be called the mint state. The lowest grade assigned to an uncirculated coin or a proof coin is 60. This grade indicates that the coin has no visible signs of wear. However, it may have a few marks on the surface or it may lack luster. A grade of 70 is assigned to an uncirculated coin that is perfect condition. It is a new coin with no signs of wear. no scratches, and no evidence of being handled or being in contact with other coins. A very high quality grade of coin is also called a proof. However, it refers to how the coin was manufactured and is not actually a condition. It is a coin that is specially made and can be distinguished by how sharp the detail is on the coin. These coins usually have a mirror-like surface.
A coin that has some trace wear only on the highest points of the design, does not show any other signs of defect, and still has most of its luster is considered Choice About Uncirculated or AU-55. A coin that has at least half of its original mint luster, and has trace wear only on the highest areas of its design, is called About Uncirculated or AU-55. A coin that has noticeable wear, but still has its sharp features is considered Extremely Fine or EF-40. The other grades of coins include Very Fine, Fine, Very Good, Good, and About Good.
The final grade of a coin can be reduced by any kind of damage like holes, dents on the edge, any repairs, if the coin was cleaned, if it was re-engraved, or any gouges. Sometimes, a coin is cleaned or polished to try and pass them off a higher grade or as an uncirculated strike. A coin can be graded and valued dramatically lower if it has been cleaned.
Sometimes there is a significant difference between the two sides of the same coin. In these cases, they may be assigned a split grade. You will know a split grade by the "/" between the grades. As an example, "AU/EF" indicates that one side of the coin is AU and the other side of the coin is EF. |
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 Author Resource Required for Reprint:
Andrew Martin is a coin collecting enthusiast and publisher. For more great information on grading coins be sure to visit http://www.coincollectcenter.com.
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Article Source:
Echievements
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