As I continue my education from each of you I come up with new questions - When reviewing coins and their condition, I often come upon the description BU Brilliant uncirculated. I am trying to get a good description of a BU coin. It is not one of the 70 classifications used in the US, nor is it listed in the McDonalds guide from Australia- Any feedback??? Richard
"Brilliant Uncirculated", simply means a coin that shows no signs of wear, has original Mint luster, and is not darkened from tarnish or toning. "Uncirculated", Brilliant Uncirculated", and "Gem Brilliant Uncirculated", are terms we used to use to describe a coin's condition, long before the A.N.A. came up with the 11 grades of uncirculated. Many of us still use these terms to describe our coins, due to the fact that so few of us can understand the new system.
Australian grading found I am seeking opinions on the gradings I am about to post- National dealer please respond as well. Most of the coins I obtain from Australia come from Australian dealers - not many dealers here in the USA deal in them. This is the Australian definitions of BU sent me by two dealers- I know this is not true for US Coins but it appears to be the standard in Australia. Brilliant Uncirculated Also referred to as FDC (Fleur de Coin - flower of the die). Although struck with normal dies, a coin described as BU is pristine, almost prooflike in appearance, being perfectly sharp, absolutely flawless and showing no signs of wear or bag marks. On the US grading scale, such a coin is described as MS-65. Grading at this superior level has become more complex in recent years with distinctions being made in many catalogs between (from highest to lowest state of preservation) - FDC, GEM Uncirculated and Choice Uncirculated. Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) A coin of this grade will show no blemishes or sign of wear. The design and legend will appear sharper than the average, a result of early mintage. Full mint luster will be seen over all the coin, sometimes giving the effect of a proof-like finish. Richard
Generally, Uncirculated would be MS60-MS62; Brilliant Uncirculated (BU) would be MS63-MS64; Choice Uncirculated would be MS65+. At least that is how I've seen the reputable dealers use them and I have used them the same way for some time.
Thank you Susan Did you read the latest posting I received from the Australian dealers? You have helped me to corralate with the US system Thanks again Richard
I just saw the post that you were referring to and replied with the US system. Thanks for pointing it out.
