Is an AU graded note crease free? I purchased a Third Issue 50 Cent Fractional which was advertised as AU. The first thing I noticed was a vertical crease running through the center, top to bottom, visible from both sides. I printed off the furnished scan and it is not recognizable on the photograph. I personally wouldn't give any note an AU grade with a crease. I'm not an expert however, and usually purchase coins not currency.
58 EPQ Choice About Unc Premium grade note. May look like higher grade, but unfortunately, has a single vertical fold or one to two light corner folds 55 EPQ About Uncirculated Two light vertical folds or a single fold with handling, but a nice original note 50 About Uncirculated Two heavier folds, or a light horizontal and vertical fold. Handling can be significant These are the grading standards from the PMG website....hope this helps.
Under The International Bank Note Society grading standards, an AU note can have a single, light center fold. Note the difference between a "crease" and a "fold" in the IBNS guide. http://www.theibns.org/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4&Itemid=30
The consensus indicates that I may be too critical in my evaluation of the grade. Since the fold is almost invisible on the back of the bill, I will probably grade it a AU53 by PMG standards. I thank everyone for their help.
