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Message:: [QUOTE="Burton Strauss III, post: 2677182, member: 59677"]I'm in the AU family, probably AU50 because of the hit. For circulated grades, I look to the highest points. On the obverse, it's the five directional changes of the shield outline where they meet the lines from the star points. Each on that shows wear is -1 (0=EF45, 1=EF40, etc.) On the reverse, it's the objects in the C. The diamond at K9 is the EF45 marker. If you've ever seen an MS67 or better 3cs, the four planes of the diamond meet at razor sharp angles and a single point. However, much as 3cs are know for clashes, they're also known for weak strikes which don't fill the objects in the C. You see that here at the top bar (K12). If the diamond tip is flat, then the six orbs (K7-K8 and K10-K11) are the next wear points. EF40, VF35 and VF25. Then the bars at K6 and K12 - VF20. Also look at the ribbon. If that's worn, you should subtract 1. If none of these are worn, you're looking at the tiniest rubs on these points for the AU range. For that you need a loupe. A pick-up point for MS is the C itself - there is actually a outline and a flat surface. But the outline is very thin and with any wear it is gone. You have a little of it on the bottom arm of the c and just a trace on the top arm.[/QUOTE]