Hobbies And Interests
Luster
Luster is a key grading element that represents a coin's brightness and shine. Cleaning a coin to enhance its luster should be left to experts since improper cleaning can drastically decrease a coin's value.
Wear
Wear is a measure of the clarity of a coin's details. Coin details with light wear are readily distinguishable with every element of the coin's engraving still sharply defined. Heavily worn coins still have identifiable designs, but the engraving may be worn smooth and the finer details no longer distinguishable.
Mint Errors
Mint errors are defects that occur during coin manufacturing that can add significant value to the coin. Minor scratches or chipping don't add appreciable value, but collectors will pay a premium for coins with major errors such as being stamped with two heads or tails.