Learn the Sheldon 1–70 Scale and Grade Definitions
3 hoursStudy AG-3 through MS-70 definitions focusing on wear points: hair detail on portraits, rim nicks, and field scratches.
Intermediate4-8 weeks
Coin Grading Basics
Complete guide for coin grading basics — step-by-step workflow, tools, checklist, and expert tips to get started.
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Workflow
Evaluate Luster, Strike, and Eye Appeal
1 hour per coinUnder a single 75W incandescent bulb, assess cartwheel luster, weakness at centers, and overall eye appeal modifiers.
Compare Against Photograde and Slabbed Examples
2 hoursMatch your coins to published grade photos and PCGS/NGC photograde images before assigning a numeric grade.
Practice Grade Estimates Before Slab Submission
ongoingEstimate grades on ten raw coins, then compare to dealer opinions or submission results to calibrate your eye.
Tools Used
- NotepadPrimary
Record grade estimates with written justification for wear points, luster, and strike on each practice coin.
- Percentage CalculatorPrimary
Calculate wear percentage on high-relief design elements to distinguish AU from MS grades.
- Inclusion Grading ScoreSupporting
Apply structured grading criteria similar to inclusion scoring when evaluating surface marks and eye appeal.
- Image CompressorReference
Capture consistent lighting photos for side-by-side comparison with photograde references.
Checklist
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Study
Equipment
Research
Skills
Verification
Quality
Reference Materials
Sheldon Scale Wear GuideTable
Key design elements lost at common circulated grades.
| Grade | Liberty Cap Detail | Reverse Eagle |
|---|---|---|
| VF-20 | Hair lines visible | Most feather detail |
| EF-40 | Hair well defined | Full feather separation |
| AU-50 | Slight rub on cheek | Full mint luster mostly intact |
| MS-63 | No wear | Full luster, visible bag marks |
Conservative Grade RuleFormula
When uncertain between grades G₁ and G₂, assign min(G₁, G₂) for purchases and document both in notes.
Cleaning DisqualificationStandard
Cleaned, whizzed, or artificially toned coins do not receive numeric mint state grades — note environmental damage.
Grade in Hand
Photos lie — always grade raw coins in hand under consistent lighting.
Weak Strike Awareness
Known weak-strike issues like 1926-D nickel demand strike allowance — not wear downgrade.
Never Clean
Cleaning destroys value — a dipped MS coin becomes net damaged regardless of appearance.
Safety Notes
- Handle coins by their edges — oils from fingers cause toning and reduce value.
- Use a soft pad when grading — dropped coins pick up rim dings instantly.