Ok Im having a "Brain Fart" right now lol, was looking at a nice coin graded by NGC at EBay- and it said it was graded 2007 P SMS 25C Washington MS 68. Now am I right in thinking SMS is Satin finish? Or does it mean something else. I know a lot about coins but am having a brain fart on this one right now lol.
hmm, if it was from 1964-1968 it would mean Special Mint Set... but that's not what this is. I'm not too sure! lol
is there a place where we can look these abbreviations up? on another forum i am on they have a system where commonly used abbreviations can be moused over and it says what they mean. this would be great for a newbie like me not knowing what they mean
I went to the NGC Website and they didnt have any info on what SMS is on their FAQ section. I agree sab, since a lot of folks that are new to the hobby.
I'm not sure what the new SMS actually stands for, but it is designating the coin has a Satin Finish as opposed to a business strike. Business strikes will bring more value than the SMS coins.
Satin Finish coins I believe are handled and struck in a mid way fashion between business strikes and proof coins and will as a result have fuller strikes and less marks, as a result they are not as rare at higher grades than their business strike cousins.
It stands for 'Special Mint Set'. (Not to be confused with Special Mint Sets issued 1965-1967.) 2005 Mints Sets to Receive SMS Designation
