Message:

<p>[QUOTE=&quot;kaparthy, post: 25418, member: 57463&quot;]<b>Forget the numbers. Start with the adjective grade: from Poor to Mint State.</b></p><p><br /></p><p>If you can tell a Very Fine from an Extremely Fine, then you are on the right road.&nbsp; Assuming that you collect US Type, The Red Book always contains thumbnail clues for grading (three letters in LIBERTY, Full Horn on the Buffalo, etc.).&nbsp; The ANA Grading Guide is more detailed.&nbsp; For other opinions, there are the PCGS Grading Guide and Photograde.&nbsp; </p><p><br /></p><p>Grading Mint State and Proof coins is an art in itself.&nbsp; There are no easy benchmarks.&nbsp; The best way is to (1) Watch the video <i>Grading Mint State Coins</i> from the ANA, if you are a member; and (2) spend a lot of time looking at certified proof coins from reputable grading services. </p><p><br /></p><p>When entering any new area of collecting, always follow the advice of Aaron Feldman: <b>Buy the book before you buy the coin.</b>&nbsp; For many US Type series, there are well known runs of weak strikes.&nbsp; Those coins are graded somewhat differently, both on a technical basis and market grading.&nbsp; Technically, a weak strike does not get a &quot;better&quot; or &quot;worse&quot; grade, but you do have to know how to differentiate a weak strike from wear.</p><p><br /></p><p>Once you are confident with the adjectives from Poor to Mint State, you will find the number chart easier to apply.&nbsp; Of course, the Red Book gives the basic numbering at the top of each column for Grade. From there, you can split hairs with Occam&#039;s razor.&nbsp; However, I am not sure that VF-23 or EF-42 have much meaning.[/QUOTE]</p><p><br /></p>

Your name or email address:

Do you already have an account?

• No, create an account now.
• Yes, my password is:
• Forgot your password?

Stay logged in