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Coin and Banknote Grading

Understanding the grading system is essential for collectors and dealers to determine the value and authenticity of coins and banknotes. Below, you will find detailed information about our grading scales for both coins and banknotes.

Standard Coin Grading Scale

Uncirculated (U)
  • Description: Coins that have never been in circulation. They retain their original mint luster and have no signs of wear.
  • Appearance: Freshly minted look, no scratches or marks from handling.

Circulated (C)
  • Description: A blanket term for coins that are not uncirculated, covering various grades of wear.
  • Appearance: Varies from slight to heavy wear.

Cleaned (CL)
  • Description: Coins that have been cleaned, often resulting in a loss of original luster and surface details.
  • Appearance: Altered appearance due to cleaning.

Mint State (MS)
  • Description: Mint State (MS) coins are in uncirculated condition, exhibiting little to no wear.
    They retain their original luster and surface quality, appearing fresh from the mint.
    These coins have sharp, well-defined details and are free from noticeable blemishes.
    Overall, Mint State coins boast exceptional quality and a pristine appearance.
  • Appearance:
    Mint State coins display a vibrant, reflective luster.
    Their surfaces are smooth and free from signs of wear or circulation.
    They feature a strong, well-executed strike with sharp details.
    Mint State coins possess high eye appeal, drawing attention with their pristine condition.

About Uncirculated (AU)
  • Description: Coins with minimal signs of wear, often only visible on the highest points.
  • Appearance: Nearly uncirculated, slight loss of luster.

Extremely Fine (XF)
  • Description: Coins with very light wear on the highest points, all design elements are sharp and well-defined.
  • Appearance: Slightly worn but with clear details.

Very Fine (VF)
  • Description: Coins with moderate wear on the raised elements but major features remain sharp.
  • Appearance: Lightly worn with clear legends and design elements.

Fine (F)
  • Description: Coins with significant wear, but the major details are still visible.
  • Appearance: Well-worn, with most details still clear.

Very Good (VG)
  • Description: Coins with heavy wear, major elements are visible but lack detail.
  • Appearance: Heavily worn, smooth in appearance.

Additional Grading Scale

Low Grade (LG)
  • Description: Coins that are heavily worn, with details mostly smoothed out.
  • Appearance: Very worn, almost smooth surfaces.

Medium Grade (MG)
  • Description: Coins that fall between low and high grades, showing moderate wear.
  • Appearance: Clearly worn but with some details visible.

High Grade (HG)
  • Description: Coins that are near the upper end of the grading scale, with minimal wear.
  • Appearance: Almost uncirculated appearance.

Promotional Grade (Promo)
  • Description: Coins used primarily for promotional purposes, may have varying degrees of wear or minor defects.
  • Appearance: Suitable for marketing or giveaways, not typically for serious collecting.

Standard Banknote Grading Scale

Uncirculated (UNC)
  • Description: Banknotes that have never been in circulation, no folds, creases, or handling marks.
  • Appearance: Crisp, clean, with sharp corners and vibrant colors.

About Uncirculated (AU)
  • Description: Banknotes with minor signs of handling, such as a slight bend or faint crease.
  • Appearance: Almost perfect, with only minor imperfections.

Extremely Fine (XF)
  • Description: Banknotes that show slight evidence of handling but remain crisp and clean.
  • Appearance: Minor wear at the corners or edges, but overall well-preserved.

Very Fine (VF)
  • Description: Banknotes with light wear, minor folds, or creases but still intact and attractive.
  • Appearance: Lightly circulated, some signs of handling.

Fine (F)
  • Description: Banknotes with moderate wear, noticeable folds, and creases but no major damage.
  • Appearance: Clearly circulated, but all design elements are intact.ail as possible to help your customers.

Very Good (VG)
  • Description: Banknotes with significant wear, multiple folds, and possible small tears.
  • Appearance: Heavily circulated, some minor damage may be present.

Good (G)
  • Description: Banknotes with heavy wear, larger tears, and possible missing pieces.
  • Appearance: Poor condition, heavily circulated with significant damage.

Our Commitment to Quality

At Educational Coin, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality coins and banknotes. Our experienced team, including expert numismatist Robin L. Danzinger, ensures the authenticity and accurate grading of each item. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, our grading system helps you make informed purchasing decisions.

For any questions or additional information about our grading scales, please contact our customer service team at +1 (845) 691-6100 or email us at order@educationalcoin.com. We are here to assist you in building a valuable and authentic collection.