I often see coins described at BU++ or AU+. I even saw a Good++. What do all of the darn plusses mean?
It's the lingo us old guys used before we had TPG grading standards. It is an older dealer putting lipstick on his pig so to speak.
It means that I'm going to try to charge you more than the coin would go for if only described as BU or AU or even Good. edit to add: Usually not, but sometimes they are actually called for.
The “+” is supposed to mean that the coin is REALLY NICE for the grade and just missed the next grade up. It used to be frowned upon years ago, but now the grading services have started using it so that makes it “okay.” If you see it on a certified coin, it might mean something good, but don't bank on it. If you see it on raw coin, there is a better than even chance that it's hype, more than anything else.
"AU+" means "it's AU at least but I'll charge you for BU" "BU+" means "it's a coin that has all of its original mint luster (brilliant uncirculated) but could be anywhere in the MS range." It's more of a luster description than a physical description. It SHOULD BE MS65 or higher really because below MS65 it can have luster impairment or muted luster. All basically dealer lingo to hype up coins for more money than its really worth in my opinion. If it will grade for that, get it graded for top dollar or expect me to call it lesser than your "opinion" to get a deal. This is different than the 3rd party grading companies use of "+". The plus on slabs means above average eye appeal for the grade.
Its the same as "LQQK" Hawkers need to attract your attention. "Get Yer Coin's Right here, folks, step right up, Get Yer Coins here!" ++*!+!!!! is just marketing jumbo for "I'll bet you're a sucker, now, aren't you!"
Reminds me of the movie The Flim Man: "A veritable master of the trade, con man Mordecai Jones (George C. Scott) has taken part in his fair share of scams. When he happens upon a young army deserter, Curley (Michael Sarrazin), Jones decides to pass on his knowledge of swindling to the likable novice."
Just their way of saying "We don't grade raw coins, but this is an exceptional coin." Just a sales tactic.
