If you’ve ever browsed a coin guide or flipped through an online coin listings, you’ve likely noticed terms like “Poor” and “Fair.” And if you’re new to the world of numismatics, you may be wondering what these terms mean. Understanding these grading terms will help you identify and value coins.
Grades
A coin’s grading refers to its condition and quality. It is based on the amount of wear and the quality of the design or strike. In the United States, common coin grading terms are Poor (Po), Fair (Fr), About Good (AG), Good (G), Very Good (VG), Fine (F), Very Fine (VF), Extra/Extremely Fine (EF or XF), Almost Uncirculated (AU), and Uncirculated (UNC).
Surface Preservation
The degree to which the coins surface has been preserved. This can be determined by examining the surfaces and comparing them to the grading chart.
Proof : A proof coin is struck with polished dies and flans to achieve high relief and fine detail. It is more difficult to find than an uncirculated coin and can be expensive.
Adjustment Marks
Some coins can have small, straight striations or file marks caused during planchet preparation. These are not uncommon in early United States coins and may indicate a quality issue.
Morgan Silver Dollar (Pre 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar 1878 to 1904)
$49.95 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Donald Trump President 2024 Official Genuine Legal Tender JFK Kennedy Half Dollar U.S. Coin
$9.95 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
10 Pack 2020 Donald Trump Gold Plated Coins with Stands, President Eagle Seal Commemorative Gift
$15.99 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Merrick Mint Donald Trump 2024 Save America USA One-Full Ounce Coin Black Ruthenium & Gold Tribute Coin with Certificate and Display Box
$28.95 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Trump Stand Strong $2 Bill Donald Trump 2 Dollar Bill Trump Never Surrender Colorized Mugshot $2 Bill Uncirculated Commemorative Coin Trump Merchandise
$15.99 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Complete 50 Uncirculated State (99-08) Quarter Collection Set + 6 Territory Quarters from The US Territories Program in a Beautiful Folder Display Book (Complete Set)
$59.95 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
1795, 1796, 1797, 1798 Year Dollar Coin Liberty American Liberty Coin United States of America Coin Souvenir Replica for Collection Party Gifts
$9.99 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
U.S. Navy Recruit Training Command Great Lakes Illinois Challenge Coin
$16.99 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
EISENHOWER (IKE) DOLLARS SET OF 4 DIFFERENT DATES BETWEEN 1971-1978
$12.96 (as of November 21, 2024 08:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)