Newbie coin collectors often feel overwhelmed by the terminology encountered in their hobby. While numerous abbreviations exist in numismatics, this guide focuses on the most common ones related to coin grades and strike characteristics.
Coin Grade Letters Explained
Letters in coin grading represent circulated grades and strike attributes. Below are key abbreviations:
| Grade | Definition | Description |
|---|---|---|
| AG | Almost Good | Heavy wear; rarely collected except for rare coins. |
| AU | Almost Uncirculated | Slight wear on highest points. |
| BN | Brown | Brownish toning on copper coins. |
| BU | Brilliant Uncirculated | Uncirculated with notable luster or strong strike. |
| CIR | Circulated | Shows wear from circulation. |
| CLND | Cleaned | Has been cleaned or washed. |
| DCAM | Deep Cameo | Proof coin with heavy frosted designs. |
| DMPL | Deep Mirror Proof Like | Non-proof coin with mirror-like surfaces. |
| EX/XF | Extremely Fine | Light wear; details visible; possible luster traces. |
| F | Fine | Heavy wear but major details intact. |
| FR | Fair | Severe wear; collected only for rare coins. |
| G | Good | Heavy wear; lowest collectible grade for common coins. |
| MS | Mint State | Uncirculated with no wear. |
| PO | Poor | Extreme wear; barely identifiable. |
| PR | Proof | Mirror-like surfaces; struck for collectors. |
| RB | Red-Brown | Mixed hues on copper coins. |
| RD | Red | Deep orange/red tones on copper. |
| UNC | Uncirculated | No circulation wear. |
| VG | Very Good | Moderate-heavy wear; full rim lettering. |
| VF | Very Fine | Moderate wear; major/minor details visible. |
Coin Grade Numbers Explained
The 70-point Sheldon Scale uses numerical grades:
1–58: Circulated coins (showing wear).
- Poor (1), Fair (2), About Good (3), Good (4–6), Very Good (8–10), Fine (12–15), Very Fine (20–35), Extremely Fine (40–45), About Uncirculated (50–58).
- 60–70: Uncirculated (Mint State) coins (no wear).
The Official U.S. Coin Grading Scale
Grading organizations like NGC and PCGS use adaptations of the Sheldon Scale. A "70" grade implies a coin is 70 times more valuable than a "1."
👉 Explore rare coin investments to leverage grading knowledge for portfolio growth.
Key Takeaways:
- Letters denote wear/strike (e.g., AU, MS).
- Numbers (1–70) quantify condition.
- Uncirculated coins (60–70) hold higher value.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between BU and UNC grades?
A: BU (Brilliant Uncirculated) emphasizes luster/strike quality, while UNC simply means no wear.
Q: Why are DMPL coins valuable?
A: Their mirror-like surfaces mimic proofs, making them desirable despite not being actual proofs.
Q: How does cleaning affect a coin’s grade?
A: Cleaning (CLND) often reduces value by altering surfaces. Natural patina is preferred.
👉 Learn advanced grading techniques to identify undervalued coins.
This guide simplifies complex grading systems for collectors at all levels. Always consult professional graders for high-value coins.
### Notes:
- **SEO Keywords**: Coin grading, numismatics, Sheldon Scale, uncirculated coins, proof coins, NGC, PCGS.
- **Anchor Texts**: Added 2 engaging links (as per guidelines).
- **FAQs**: Integrated naturally to address reader queries.