Quick summary
- U.S. coins are usually graded on the Sheldon scale, from 1 (barely identifiable) to 70 (perfect).
- Grades from 60 to 70 are ‘Mint State,’ meaning no wear from circulation.
- Graders look at wear, luster, strike, marks and eye appeal.
- Proof coins are specially made for collectors and graded with a ‘PR’ or ‘PF’ prefix.
- Professional grading by companies such as PCGS and NGC makes sense mainly for valuable coins.
A coin’s grade describes its condition, and condition has a big effect on value. Learning the basics helps you buy wisely and understand price guides.
The Sheldon scale
Most U.S. coins are graded on a 1 to 70 scale, known as the Sheldon scale. Common points on the scale include:
| Grade | Name | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 3 | Poor to About Good | Heavily worn, design barely visible |
| 4 to 8 | Good to Very Good | Major details worn, outline visible |
| 12 to 35 | Fine to Very Fine | Moderate wear, main details clear |
| 40 to 58 | Extremely Fine to About Uncirculated | Light wear on the highest points |
| 60 to 70 | Mint State | No wear from circulation |
What graders look at
- Wear: flattening on the highest points of the design.
- Luster: the way light flows across an original surface.
- Strike: how fully the design was struck when the coin was made.
- Marks: nicks and scratches, including “bag marks” from contact with other coins.
- Eye appeal: the overall impression, including toning.
Proof coins
Proof coins are struck specially for collectors, often with mirror-like fields and frosted designs. They’re graded on the same scale with a “PR” or “PF” prefix, such as PR-69.
Collector’s tip
Practice by comparing your coins with photos in grading guides. Look at the highest points of the design first; that’s where wear appears.
Professional grading
Third-party grading services, such as PCGS and NGC, authenticate and grade coins and seal them in tamper-evident holders. Grading makes most sense for valuable coins, where authenticity and an independent grade affect price. Problem coins, such as cleaned ones, usually receive a “details” grade; see why you shouldn’t clean coins.
Professional grading is also one of the best protections against fakes, as our guide to spotting counterfeit coins explains.
Collector questions
What does ‘MS-65’ mean?
Mint State 65: an uncirculated coin with no wear and only minor marks or flaws. It’s often called ‘Gem Uncirculated.’
Is professional grading expensive?
Fees vary by service level and the coin’s value. For common coins, the fee can be more than the coin is worth.
Can two graders give different grades?
Yes. Grading involves judgment, especially between neighboring grades, which is why consistency and experience matter.
How do I check a graded coin is genuine?
Look up its certification number on the grading company’s website and compare the coin and holder with the online record and photos.
Coin values change with demand, condition and metal prices. This guide is general information, not an appraisal or investment advice.
