What's that Grade?

The Sheldon Scale

The grading scale used to grade coins, rendering them into numismatics, is the Sheldon Scale, which was created by Dr. William Sheldon in the 1950s. The Sheldon Scale ranges from 1 to 70, with 70 being the highest possible grade and indicating a perfect, uncirculated coin. The Sheldon Scale is used primarily for grading coins from the US Mint and is widely recognized as the standard grading system used by coin dealers and collectors.

The Sheldon Scale grades coins based on factors such as the amount of wear, the preservation of detail, and the overall eye appeal of the coin. For example, a coin graded as "Uncirculated" would be given a grade of 60 to 70 on the Sheldon Scale, indicating that it has no signs of wear and has preserved all of its original detail. On the other hand, a coin graded as "Fine" would be given a grade of 12 to 15, indicating that it has significant wear but still retains some detail.

It is important to note that grading coins is subjective and that different professional graders may have different opinions on the grade of a particular coin. To ensure consistency and objectivity, top-tier grading services have established strict standards and use multiple graders to determine a coin's grade. 

1-10: Coins in this range are considered to be in "Poor" or "Basal" condition and typically have heavy wear, lack of detail, and are generally not suitable for collectors.

11-15: Coins in this range are considered to be in "Fine" condition and have significant wear, but still retain some detail.

16-45: Coins in this range are considered to be in "Very Good" to "Extremely Fine" condition and show moderate to minimal wear, with most detail preserved. Coins in this range are typically more valuable and desirable to collectors.

46-58: Coins in this range are considered to be in "About Uncirculated" condition and show only slight wear, with almost all detail preserved.

59-70: Coins in this range are considered to be in "Uncirculated" condition and show no signs of wear. Coins in this range are the most valuable and desirable to collectors.

Who Grades the Coins?

While there are several companies who can grade coins, only two stand out above the rest. Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC). Both are widely recognized as the most reputable and reliable coin grading and authentication services in the world. 

Both utilize the aforementioned Sheldon Scale, and adhere to a strict set of standards and guidelines to determine the grade of a coin and to ensure consistency and accuracy. Coins that have been graded and certified by PCGS or NGC are encapsulated in a clear, tamper-evident plastic holder that displays the coin's grade, weight, and other important information. Their graded coins are widely recognized and trusted by collectors, dealers, and investors worldwide.