Understanding coin grading is essential for collectors and investors who want to accurately determine coin value and build a valuable collection. The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale remains the gold standard for professional coin grading, and Elite Coin Group is here to guide you through every grade from Poor (P-1) to Perfect Mint State (MS-70).
The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale is a 70-point numerical grading system used to assess coin condition and determine market value. Created by Dr. William H. Sheldon in 1949, this coin grading system revolutionized numismatics by providing a standardized method to evaluate coins objectively. Today, professional grading services like PCGS and NGC use the Sheldon Scale as the foundation for all coin authentication and grading.
Proper coin grading directly impacts:
MS-70 (Perfect Uncirculated) A flawless coin with perfect luster, strike, and eye appeal. No contact marks, hairlines, or imperfections even under 5x magnification. MS-70 coins are exceptionally rare and command premium prices.
MS-69 (Superb Gem Uncirculated) Nearly perfect coin condition with only one or two minuscule imperfections visible under magnification. Outstanding luster and strike quality.
MS-68 to MS-65 (Gem Uncirculated) High-quality uncirculated coins with minimal contact marks. Excellent luster, strong strike, and attractive eye appeal. These grades represent investment-quality coins.
MS-64 to MS-60 (Uncirculated) Uncirculated coins with noticeable contact marks and possible weak strikes. Still retain full mint luster but show more imperfections than higher grades.
About Uncirculated (AU-58, AU-55, AU-53, AU-50) Light wear on the highest points of the coin design. AU-58 shows just a trace of wear with nearly full luster. These coins maintain strong detail and are popular with collectors seeking value.
Extremely Fine or Extra Fine (EF-45, EF-40 / XF-45, XF-40) Light wear across the entire coin with all major design elements sharp and well-defined. Approximately 90-95% of original mint luster may remain on EF-45 coins.
Very Fine (VF-35, VF-30, VF-25, VF-20) Moderate wear on high points with all major design features clearly visible. Coins in VF condition show good detail and are often collectible on a budget.
Fine (F-15, F-12) Considerable wear with major design elements still visible and identifiable. Lettering and date remain clear. These coins show history while maintaining collectible value.
Very Good (VG-10, VG-8) Well-worn coins with major design outlines visible but lacking fine detail. Date and mint mark remain legible.
Good (G-6, G-4) Heavily worn with only the main design elements visible. Details are mostly flat, but the coin remains identifiable.
About Good (AG-3) Very heavily worn with barely discernible details. Rim may be worn down to the design.
Poor (P-1) Minimal detail remains, possibly damaged or corroded, but identifiable as a specific coin type.
When grading coins, experts evaluate:
While learning to grade coins yourself is valuable, professional third-party grading from services like PCGS, NGC, ANACS, or ICG provides:
Elite Coin Group works with all major grading services and can help you determine when professional grading makes financial sense for your collection.
The relationship between grade and value is exponential, not linear. For example:
This dramatic value increase at higher grades emphasizes the importance of accurate grading and professional authentication for valuable coins.
Elite Coin Group specializes in helping collectors understand coin grading, build valuable collections, and make informed buying and selling decisions. Whether you’re grading Lincoln cents or rare gold coins, mastering the Sheldon Scale is your first step toward numismatic success.
Contact Elite Coin Group today for:
Elite Coin Group – Your trusted partner in numismatics. Helping collectors maximize value through expert coin grading, authentication, and market knowledge.
