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How to Rate Rare Coins

Grading coins is a skill that takes time to learn properly. Every single coin has slightly different standards to which it is graded, making a good price guide (with grading information) an invaluable tool. However, an approximate rating can be given if you know a little bit about what to look for on the faces of a coin. The grading scale runs from fair to uncirculated, with a corresponding number scale (zero to 70) for more exact ratings.

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for any obvious deformities in your coin. Any bends, holes or chips in the coin indicate a coin with a very low grade. Even if the image on the coin is in good condition, deformities will greatly devalue most coins.

    • 2

      Find the year on one of the faces of the coin. This, along with the actual type of coin (country of origin, denomination, mint mark, etc.), is what tells you if your particular coin is rare.

    • 3

      Look closely at all the lettering and marks on the coin. If not all of the words or marks are legible or defined, your coin is of a low grade.

    • 4

      Look at the design on the coin and see if there is any significant wear. The more faded the details, the lower the grade of the coin.

    • 5

      Examine the high points of the coin. The less wear on the high points of the coin--where the coin gets touched the most--the higher the grade of the coin.

    • 6

      Grade your coin using the information you have garnered from closely examining your coin. A fair coin is extremely well worn (to the point that you can barely tell what type and year the coin is); a good coin is a well-worn coin that is easy to identify; a fine coin still has some definition in the design; a very fine coin has light to medium wear; an extra-fine coin has light wear on the highest points; and an uncirculated coin is perfect to the naked eye.


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