What is grading and certifying of coins?

Coin gradings and certifying have become significantly important in recent times as there is a significant increase in amount of fake coins.

Grading and certifying coins not only serve as an indicator of the condition of a particular coin, they also serve as a guarantor that the coins in the holders are genuine.

A 70-point scale, 70 being the highest grade, is used to grade a coin.

MS (mint state) 60-70
AU (about uncirculated) 50, 53, 55, 58
XF (extremely fine) 40, 45
VF (very fine) 20, 25, 30, 35
F (fine) 12, 15
VG (very good) 8, 10
G (good) 4, 6
AG (about good) 3
FA (fair) 2
PR (poor) 1

Proof issue of coins are also graded on the scale of 1-70 with the prefix of "PF", e.g. PF69

And some of the coins are identified as "PL" which means "proof like".

Some of the coins that are genuine but can't determine a grade for particular reasons are often certified as being genuine and sometimes with a short comment of the problem of the coin.

There are a number of grading and certifying companies available such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Services) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).


Disclaimer : Numisville is neither a promoter nor representative of PCGS and NGC.