Knowing how to evaluate a coin is an extremely useful skill for any coin collector. The condition of the coin can be assessed taking into account two main factors - the quality of the minting and the preservation. Six grades of coin evaluation are conventionally distinguished. Below we list and describe these gradations.
Instructions
Step 1
Highest collectible value. Coins of this category are specially made for collectors using polished stamps and a specially polished mug. The field of the coin is mirror-glossy; it has no defects visible under a double magnifying glass. The protruding parts of the picture are matte: ornament, rim lines, inscriptions, numbers and an image. In English-language catalogs, this quality is denoted by the word "Proof" or PRF (abbreviated), in German - PP.
Step 2
Excellent condition. The coin was minted with new stamps. The field is shiny, polished, and so is the image. No serious defects are visible under the double magnifier. The excellent quality includes special commemorative and commemorative coins with a polished image without frosted details. In English catalogs, it is designated "Uncirculated" (UNC). In German - STLG.
Step 3
Very good condition. The coin was not in circulation. On the field of the image under the magnifying glass, one can see some defects of the coinage, such as fuzzy details of the image, numbers and letters, as well as traces of the coin being in the bags (specks, small scratches, etc.). Designation: "Extremely fine" (EF) in English catalogs, and in German - VZGL.
Step 4
Good condition. The coin was in circulation. There are signs of wear, but 75% of the pattern is preserved. There are small defects on the rim and margin that are visible to the naked eye, but do not spoil the overall appearance of the coin. It is designated "Very fine" (VF) in English-language catalogs. In German catalogs, good quality is indicated by the letters SS.
Step 5
Average condition. There are traces of a fairly long stay of the coin in circulation. Nevertheless, a coin of this quality retained up to 50% of the design, having traces of corrosion, cleaning, as well as abrasions on protruding parts. This condition is indicated by one word "Fine" (F) in English-language catalogs and the letter "S" in German.
Step 6
Mediocre condition. The coin was damaged in the process of circulation, the drawing was preserved only by 25% or less. There are large abrasions, curvature, traces of straightening. The presence of nicks and deep shells on the rim is possible. A coin of mediocre quality may be new, but minted with technological effects. This can be a shift of stamps, traces of their impact, embossing outside the printed ring. Therefore, the edge inscription or notch may be partially or completely absent. It is advisable to store such coins only if they are extremely rare and fairly ancient specimens.
