Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Hold the coin by the edges. Examine the markings on the front and back of the dollar. Use a magnifying glass to see details if necessary.
Assign a grade based on the criteria you note in your examination. Blue Water Ventures provides this grading system: Grade 1 coins look intact, with no signs of use. There is no visible pitting and the details are defined. These are mostly found in chests that protected them from the elements. Grade 2 coins have had some exposure to the elements. The details are still clearly visible but some wear is apparent. Grade 3 coins show much more wear. Some have one side almost worn away. Grade 4 coins have very few remaining markings, but are still identifiable as Spanish Reales. Grade 5 coins are difficult to identify and may have portions missing.
Sort the coins with like grades. Place them in coin holders to protect them from further wear, and label the holders with the coin and grade so you will not have to regrade the coin later.