Coin Grade Guide
A quick reference for the Sheldon 70-point scale — pick a grade to see its abbreviation, category, and what it generally looks like on a coin.
Grade reference
Gem uncirculated — an attractive coin with full luster and only minor, scattered marks.
A vocabulary, not a valuation
Grading terminology exists so collectors can describe a coin’s condition consistently, without seeing it in hand. “VF-20” means roughly the same thing whether the seller is across the table or across the country, because the number and letters point to a defined band on the same scale.
This tool only explains what a grade name means — it doesn’t assign one. Grading a real coin means examining its actual wear, marks, strike, and luster in hand or under magnification, which is exactly what a professional grader or third-party grading service does.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sheldon scale?
The Sheldon scale is a 1-to-70 numeric grading system used across US numismatics, originally devised by Dr. William Sheldon for large cents and later adopted industry-wide by the ANA and third-party grading services. Each number pairs with a letter prefix — like G for Good, VF for Very Fine, or MS for Mint State — to describe how much wear and eye appeal a coin shows.
Why aren't all 70 numbers used?
Below Mint State (60), the scale uses a defined set of recognized points — 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 53, 55, and 58 — rather than every integer. From 60 to 70, every whole number is used, since Mint State and Proof coins are graded on finer distinctions of luster, marks, and strike quality.
What's the difference between a business strike and a proof?
A business strike is a coin made for general circulation, struck once on standard equipment. A proof is struck specifically for collectors, usually with specially polished dies and multiple strikes for sharper detail — proofs at MS-60 and above use a 'PR' or 'PF' prefix instead of 'MS' to reflect that different manufacturing process.
Can this tool grade my coin?
No. This is a reference for what each grade name means — it can't examine a physical coin. Only a trained grader, ideally through a recognized third-party grading service, can assign an actual grade to a specific coin.
Educational reference only — not a professional grading, authentication, or valuation service.