Understanding Coin Grading: From Good to PF70

When it comes to coins, condition is everything. Two coins of the same year and mintmark can differ in value by hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars simply because one is more well-preserved than the other. That’s where coin grading comes in.
At TX Coin and Stamps in The Woodlands, we help collectors and sellers understand the condition of their coins and what that means for value. Here’s a breakdown of the grading system, from the most worn coins to flawless Proofs.

The Sheldon Coin Grading Scale

The most widely used grading system is the Sheldon Scale, which ranges from 1 to 70. This system helps establish consistency in evaluating a coin’s wear, luster, strike, and overall eye appeal.

Circulated Coin Grades (Worn Coins)

• Good (G4–G6) – Heavy wear; design outlines are visible, but fine details are mostly gone.
  
• Very Good (VG8–VG10) – Moderate wear; some details still visible, but overall flatness remains.
  
• Fine (F12–F15) – Moderate to heavy wear, but major details like hairlines or feathers are still defined.
  
• Very Fine (VF20–VF35) – Moderate wear, more details visible, though high points are worn smooth.
  
• Extremely Fine (EF/XF40–XF45) – Light wear; most of the design is sharp with strong detail.
  

About Uncirculated (AU50–AU58)

These coins show very slight traces of wear on the highest points but retain most of their original mint luster. They look nearly uncirculated and are often mistaken for Mint State at first glance.

​Mint State (MS60–MS70)

MS (Mint State) coins are uncirculated—meaning they never entered everyday use. However, not all Mint State coins are equal.

• MS60–MS62 – Uncirculated but may have noticeable marks, weak luster, or poor eye appeal.
  
• MS63–MS64 – Average uncirculated coins; fewer marks and decent luster.
  
• MS65–MS66 – Above average with strong strike, fewer blemishes, and great eye appeal.
  
• MS67–MS69 – Superb coins with nearly perfect strike, outstanding luster, and only tiny imperfections.
  
• MS70 – A perfect coin. No visible flaws under magnification, full luster, and a flawless strike. These are extremely rare.
  

Proof Coins (PF/PR60–PF70)

Proof coins (abbreviated PF or PR) are not circulation coins. They are specially struck using polished dies and planchets, creating sharp details and mirror-like surfaces. Proof coins can also be graded on the 1–70 scale.

• PF60–PF64 – Average Proofs with some visible imperfections.
  
• PF65–PF68 – High-quality Proofs with strong eye appeal and very few flaws.
  
• PF69 – Nearly perfect, with only microscopic imperfections under magnification.
  
• PF70 – A flawless Proof coin. Absolute perfection in strike, luster, and finish.
  

Why Coin Grading Matters

Grading directly impacts a coin’s value. For example:

• A Morgan Silver Dollar in Good condition may only be worth a little over its silver content.
  
• The same coin in MS65 could be worth hundreds—or even thousands—depending on rarity.
  
• A PF70 Proof coin can command significant premiums because of its rarity and perfection.
  

​Professional Coin Grading Services

​Most high-value coins are authenticated and graded by third-party services like PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company). These services provide consistency, security, and confidence for both buyers and sellers.

Get Your Coins Evaluated in The Woodlands

At TX Coin and Stamps, we specialize in appraising coins across the grading spectrum—from worn Good-condition pieces to flawless Proofs. Whether you’re looking to sell, insure, or simply learn about your collection, we provide honest, transparent evaluations.
📍 Serving The Woodlands, Spring, Conroe, Magnolia, and the Greater Houston Area
📞 Call us to schedule your free coin appraisal
📧 Send photos via email for a fast estimate

At TX Coin and Stamps, we’re here to guide you through the process with expert appraisals and fair offers.