Condition of coins, quality of coins. Determining the condition of coins

When collecting coins, numismatists pay very little attention to the condition of the coin. After all, a worn-out coin with unreadable inscriptions is one thing. But a new one, which has only recently come out of a coin press, is something completely different. To characterize a coin and its collectible value, determining its safety is essential. In addition, coins are also produced in different minting qualities. And, accordingly, they are sold at different prices.

In order to have some criteria for assessing the safety of a coin, a classification of coins was developed according to the degree of quality of minting and safety. However, in different countries are designated differently.

Let's look at each degree in more detail.

Polished coin(English) Proof). Coins of the highest quality, having a smooth mirror surface of the field and a contrasting matte relief pattern. Minted with polished stamps on polished blanks. The relief should be clear, with the smallest details clearly visible. Products of proof quality should not only be free from scratches, nicks, burrs, and even the smallest surface irregularities visible to the naked eye, but also from traces of hand touch. Therefore, such products are usually packaged in a special capsule to prevent surface damage. Souvenir coins are usually produced using proof technology.

Polished coin with barely noticeable imperfections(English) Proof-like). The term appeared to denote the quality of coins that are similar in appearance to proof, but the mint does not guarantee that the proof technology was fully observed during their production. For example, it is believed that coins made only from precious metals can be called proof. Proof-like coins, like proof coins, are usually packaged in a protective capsule or film.

The coin was not in circulation, Improved quality(English) Brilliant uncirculated, BU). The highest degree of preservation of coins minted with conventional stamps. They have not been in circulation, retain their original shine, and must not have any defects visible to the naked eye. Coins of this quality have a mirror-like shine over the entire surface and a mirror-like (non-matte) relief pattern. Such coins are minted initially for collectors.

The coin was not in circulation, Excellent, a/c (English) Uncirculated, UNC). These are coins that have not yet been in circulation and therefore have no damage due to circulation.

They may have technological damage (very small scratches, burrs, notches visible to the naked eye), formed from coins hitting each other when thrown into automatic storage machines, when passing through high-speed automatic counting machines, when poured into bags in bulk, and during intra-shop and warehouse storage. movements of coins in these bags both at mints and in the vaults of the Bank of Russia in preparing them for release into circulation. Coins of this quality have a fresh matte metallic sheen over the entire surface and a matte relief pattern.

Almost excellent(English) About uncirculated, AU). Refers to coins that were in circulation extremely a short time. They may have technological damage (very small scratches, burrs, notches visible to the naked eye), formed from coins hitting each other when thrown into automatic storage machines, when passed through high-speed automatic counting machines, when poured into bags in bulk, etc. In addition to the usual technological damage mentioned above, these coins have minimal abrasions visible to the naked eye of a very small area. high areas relief. Coins of this quality have a fresh matte metallic sheen over the entire surface and a matte relief pattern.

Excellent(English) Extremely fine, XF). Refers to coins that were in circulation for a very short time. In addition to the usual technological damage mentioned above, these coins have light abrasions visible to the naked eye in small areas of the highest areas of the relief. The contours of the drawings are contrasting, all the smallest details of the relief are preserved. There is no fresh metallic sheen on most of the surface of the coin. There are no deep scratches or other serious defects. Coin with minor traces of handling, more than 90% of the original surface preserved.

Very good(English) Very fine, VF

good(English) Fine,F). Refers to coins that have been in circulation for a considerable time and have noticeable abrasions over the entire surface. Some small details of the relief have been completely erased, but the relief and inscriptions are easily distinguishable. The contours of the relief have already lost their sharpness. Light scratches and other damage, somewhat more serious than normal technological damage, are allowed.

Very satisfactory(English) Very good, VG). Refers to coins with significant abrasions across the entire surface. Only large details of the drawings remained discernible; small fragments of decorative ornamentation (ears of corn, leaves of plants, dots, stars, etc.) were almost completely erased. Significant scratches, nicks, and nicks are possible.

Satisfactory(English) Good,G). Refers to coins on which only the main outlines of the designs remain visible. The inscription and date of issue are difficult to distinguish.

In the United States of America, a more complex system for assessing the safety of a coin is used. It was developed by William Sheldon in 1949 and is based on a 70-point scale. This rating system is called the “Sheldon scale”.

Coins that were in circulation

POOR-1 POOR- A coin in this condition is not collectible; it is so worn out during circulation that it is difficult to determine which country and period it belongs to. The image is difficult to distinguish, most of the inscriptions, as well as the date, are not visible.

FAIR-2 FAIR- The coin in this condition is not collectible; it is very worn during circulation. The image is visible and it is possible to determine what period the coin belongs to, but the specific date, mintmaster's initials and mint letters are only partially visible and it is impossible to accurately determine what year, mint, etc. the coin belongs to.

AG-3 ABOUT GOOD- The coin is very worn during circulation. Although difficult, it is possible to accurately determine the year of issue, mint, and the initials of the master of the mint. Coins in this condition are considered to be the lowest grade of collectible coins. Typically, coins in this condition are only added to a collection if higher quality coins are extremely rare or expensive.

G-4 GOOD- The coin in this condition is heavily worn during circulation, but all the main inscriptions are legible, although not without difficulty. All large main details are also visible. On some coins, such as 18th-century copper coins, the denomination designation may be difficult and partial to read. On small denominations of silver coins of the 18th century, where the year numerals are a high point of relief, the designation of the year should be, although difficult, fully distinguishable. On large 18th-century silver coins, where the inscription runs in a circle near the edge of the coin, the inscription may be only partially legible. Details of the coin image close to the edge may be heavily worn, but are readable. The edge around the circumference of the coin, for coins of the 19th century and later, may be erased to the ground or only partially present. There is also a G-6 rating, but in practice it is used extremely rarely.

VG-8 VERY GOOD- The coin is quite worn, all the inscriptions are visible. It is quite easy to describe this condition. If the outlines of small coats of arms on the wings of eagles for large silver coins of the 19th century are practically absent, this is VG-8. Of course, all other characteristics should confirm this assessment. All inscriptions must be legible; some middle details of the coin's design may be visible. There is also a VG-10 rating, but it is used extremely rarely.

F-12 FINE- The coin has moderate wear, all inscriptions, large and medium-sized details are distinguishable. The outlines of small coats of arms on the wings of the eagles are present, but the small details of the coats of arms themselves are completely or partially erased. The outline of the horseman may not be visible on large silver, gold and platinum coins from the 19th century. Small details may be completely or partially erased. There is also an F-15 grade which is sometimes used and represents a slightly better quality coin.

VF-20 VERY FINE
VF-30 CHOICE VERY FINE- Compared to coins of previous states of preservation, some small details of the image are already visible. Thus, on rubles of the 19th century, some details of the image on small coats of arms and the outlines of the horseman are visible; on gold (1818-1831) and platinum (1828-1841) coins, the outlines of the horseman may still not be visible or only partially visible. VF-20 and VF-30 grades differ from each other in large part by having more (VF-20) or fewer (VF-30) defects, such as scratches, nicks, nicks, and coin circle defects. The VF-30 grade is therefore also called Choice Very Fine, emphasizing the higher quality of the coin with a better appearance. Sometimes in practice the VF-25 and VF-35 ratings are used.

EF-40 (XF-40) EXTREMELY FINE
EF-45 (XF-45) CHOICE EXTREMELY FINE- The coin has minor wear on the highest parts of the relief. Coins in EF-45 (XF-45) condition should show traces of the original striking shine, mostly in the protected areas between the inscription letters. The EF-45 is a higher quality example with better looks.

AU-50 ABOUT UNCIRCULATED
AU-55 CHOICE ABOUT UNCIRCULATED
AU-58 VERY CHOICE ABOUT UNCIRCULATED- Sometimes ALMOST UNCIRCULATED is used. The coin has virtually no wear, with only minor abrasions to the highest parts of the relief. Most of the hammered shine is present, including on exposed surfaces. Defects of the coin circle (blank) as well as acquired defects correspond to this assessment. AU-55 condition coins are called Choice About Uncirculated, emphasizing higher quality and better appearance coins. AU-58 condition coins are called Very Choice About Uncirculated. These are coins that most likely were not in circulation, however, for a number of reasons they cannot be classified as uncirculated coins. In practice, it is quite difficult to distinguish a coin in the Very Choice About Uncirculated condition from the Uncirculated condition; specialized knowledge and experience. Sometimes in practice the intermediate assessment AU-53 is used.

Uncirculated coins

MS-60 UNCIRCULATED- Unattractive minted luster (or “laster” from the English word Luster), very dull and unsightly, or “washed away”, for example, as a result of immersing the coin in a cleaning solution. There may be a large number of deep or medium-depth scratches, nicks, minor metal displacements as a result of one coin hitting another, extended shallow scratches and areas of damage, including in the most important, primary focal areas of the coin. There may also be minor notches - the results of one coin hitting another on the edge of the coin with a transition to its edge. There may be large deposits of metal due to the poor quality of the coin circle, as well as significant stains, especially on copper coins. Copper coins may have an unattractive, very dark color. The appearance of the coin is well below average and unattractive. There are absolutely no signs of wear.

MS-61 UNCIRCULATED- The embossed shine is dull, “washed off” or the surface is quite damaged. The surface has large areas of damage and many small or medium-sized nicks and scratches; extended scratches may also be present. A limited number of deep or wide nicks in the primary focal areas of the coin. Small or medium-sized nicks on the edge and edge of the coin. Copper coins may be dark and have spots. The appearance is rather unattractive.

MS-62 UNCIRCULATED- The minted shine is significantly below level, partially “washed away” or the surface of the coin is moderately damaged. The surface has moderate areas of damage and a small number of small to medium nicks and scratches. Several deep or wide nicks may be present in the primary focal areas of the coin. Small nicks on the edge and edge of the coin. The quality of the coinage, coin circle or significant wear of the coin stamp is below the level. The appearance is rather acceptable.

MS-63 CHOICE UNCIRCULATED- The minted luster is slightly below level or there is barely noticeable damage to the surfaces of the coin. The surface has a small amount of damage and a small number of small to medium nicks and scratches. Several deep or wide nicks may be present in non-defining areas of the coin, or one or two nicks in focal areas of the coin. A small number of small nicks on the edge and edge of the coin. The quality of the coinage and coin circle is approximately at the same level. The appearance is rather attractive.

MS-64 CHOICE UNCIRCULATED- The mint shine and quality of the mint and coin circle are at an average level. The surface has a few damages or small nicks and scratches. Several medium nicks or scratches may be present on the secondary focal areas of the coin, or one or two medium nicks (scratches) on the primary focal areas of the coin. The quality of the coinage and coin circle is at the same level. The appearance is attractive.

MS-65 GEM UNCIRCULATED- The mint shine and quality of the mint and coin circle are above average. The surface has a few damages or small nicks and scratches. Several small nicks or scratches may be present on the secondary focal areas of the coin, or one or two small nicks (scratches) on the primary focal areas of the coin. The quality of the coinage and coin circle is above average. Copper coins must have a full minted luster and original (red) or tarnished (brown) color. The appearance is very attractive.

MS-66 GEM UNCIRCULATED- Original and high quality minted luster, the quality of the mint and the coin circle is at a very high level. The surface has no more than a few barely noticeable and 2-3 small nicks or scratches visible to the naked eye. Several small extended scratches visible under 5x magnification may be present. The quality of the coinage and coin circle is above average. The appearance is very attractive, well above the level.

MS-67 GEM UNCIRCULATED- Original and high quality minted luster, the quality of the coinage and coin circle is at the highest level. The surface has no more than 3-4 tiny and barely visible to the naked eye nicks or scratches and no more than one minor scratch or contact mark when struck by another coin in the secondary focal areas of the coin. There may be several small extended scratches and sagging (irregularities) of metal, visible under 5x magnification. Appearance at the highest level.

MS-68 GEM UNCIRCULATED- Original and very high quality minted luster, the quality of the coinage and coin circle is at the highest level. The surface has no more than 3-4 tiny scratches, sagging or unusual metal irregularities visible using a 10x lens and has no defects visible to the naked eye. The appearance is close to flawless.

MS-69 GEM UNCIRCULATED- Original and very high quality minted luster, the quality of the coinage and coin circle is at the highest level. The surface has no more than 2 tiny scratches, sagging or unusual metal irregularities visible using a 10x lens and does not have any defects visible to the naked eye. Copper coins must be bright original color. The appearance is almost flawless.

MS-70 FLAWLESS COIN- High quality coin of impeccable quality. The mint shine, the quality of the coinage and the coin circle are impeccable. The surface does not have any defects of any nature, scratches, small burrs, sagging or any unusual metal irregularities visible using a 10x lens. Copper coins must be of a bright original color. The appearance is impeccable.

Coins made using PROOF technology

PR-45 CIRCULATED Proof
PR-50 CIRCULATED Proof
PR-55 CIRCULATED Proof
PR-58 CIRCULATED Proof
PR-60 ​​Proof
PR-61 Proof
PR-62 Proof
PR-63 CHOICE Proof
PR-64 CHOICE Proof
PR-65 GEM Proof
PR-66 GEM Proof
PR-67 GEM Proof
PR-68 GEM Proof
PR-69 GEM Proof
PR-70 FLAWLESS Proof

Even for beginning numismatists it matters. In fact, quality is a subjective concept, so it would be more correct to call it an indicator of the condition of the coins.

Coin condition- this is a certain characteristic that reflects the presence of wear or damage on the coin, as well as their degree. The main determination of the degree of wear of a coin is the more worn it is, the more fewer elements coinage can be distinguished, the worse its condition and the lower the degree of preservation. And vice versa.

This definition is an integral commercial aspect of numismatics. The value of the same coin may differ several times depending on its condition.

Coin quality designation

There is no single system for all countries and all coins. Different countries have different conventions. For coins from different periods, different criteria for the quality of coins are applied. For example, the degree of preservation of the first USSR coins before 1958 is lower than that of USSR coins from 1961. In addition, commercial numismatic coin quality standards also change over time.

Condition of coins international classification with photo

At the beginning of the 20th century, thanks to the American Numismatic Association (ANA), English-speaking numismatists developed a system for classifying the condition of coins. To this day, this classification is the basis of the international one and is recognized by professional numismatists and auctions. Of course, the classification has expanded over the last century. Let's look at the main indicators and notations.

* Photo examples will be replaced with other coins in the near future.

Other coin grading systems

Proof- This separate category with distinctive indicators of coin quality. These coins are produced specifically for numismatists. When minting proof coins, special technologies are used, thanks to which the surface of the coin becomes polished and the image becomes matte. Such coins are initially placed in capsules. I will talk about them in more detail in a separate article soon.

Dr. Sheldon's Coin Preservation Scale. This is a more precise grading system, it takes into account smaller degrees of each of the basic degrees of preservation indicated above. I will also talk about this unique person and his contribution separately.

Don't forget, the concept of quality is purely subjective. This also applies to numismatics. And let the coin from circulation according to the international VF system be in perfect condition for you. This is partly why no one admits Russian system assessing the quality of coins.

In order to determine the collectible value of coins, attention is paid to a number of factors, including how rare the coin is and how well it is preserved. Let's determine how the safety of coins is classified and assessed.

Our online auction uses the following system of names for assessing the degree of preservation:

• Poor - such a coin cannot be identified;
• Fair - a coin in this condition is not collectible;
• AG (from English -almost good) - almost good condition;
• G (good) - means safety at a satisfactory level;
• VG (very good) - good level of preservation;
• F (fine) - can be described as an excellent degree;
• VF (very fine) - even higher degree of preservation;
• XF (extremely fine) - excellent level of preservation;
• AU (almost uncirculated) - such a coin is classified as practically uncirculated;
• UNC (uncirculated) - uncirculated coins;

Let us dwell in a little more detail on each species, starting with the highest degree of preservation.

UNC (English: uncirculated - not addressed)

Uncirculated coins, i.e. those that are characterized by the highest possible safety because they were not in circulation, and therefore did not receive any damage that inevitably happens during their use. Coins in circulation always have scratches, so-called jagged and abrasions. UNC grade coins may have subtle technological flaws that can be examined without special devices, in the form of tiny scratches that result from minting, or from touching other coins. UNCs generally have a uniform, shiny metallic surface.

AU (English: almost uncirculated - practically not addressed)

Coins that have practically never been used, but may have technological defects (very minor scratches, insufficient clarity of coinage, etc.). Since the coins were in circulation very little, they are not subject to wear. They may show only slight abrasion of the most prominent relief parts. Coins are characterized by a preserved surface luster. Weak defects in the coin blank and barely noticeable defects obtained do not detract from the high valuation of such coins.

XF (English: extremely fine - unsurpassed excellent)

Coins that are characterized by excellent preservation. Usually it is characteristic of coins that have been in circulation for a short period of time. In addition to the technological defects already mentioned above, they may also have barely visible abrasions on the most prominent parts of the relief. Such coins are not characterized by a rich shine, but there are also no significant damages or acquired flaws.

VF (English: very fine - very excellent, beyond excellent)

Coins whose safety can be described as extremely excellent. These coins have been in circulation longer than previous categories, so they are characterized by more significant abrasions, which are reflected in the distortion of relief details, which, nevertheless, can still be distinguished. They retain the clear contours of the applied images, but the surface shine is no longer present on the entire surface. For this category, flaws in the coinage are also allowed.

F (English: fine - excellent)

Excellent preservation of samples that for a long time have been in circulation and already have significant surface wear, which is very noticeable. The small elements of the surface relief are no longer there, but the relief itself and the inscriptions on it can still be distinguished. In this category, more significant damage than technological defects is acceptable.

VG (English: very good - very good).

This category of preservation is characterized by serious abrasions over the entire surface. On the relief, only the largest elements of the image can be distinguished; minor details in the form of decoration and ornament (stars, ears of corn, etc.) are practically erased. Scratches and other damage are already significant.

G (English: good - good)

The degree of preservation of the coins is at a satisfactory level. On such coins you can only see the main lines of the image. The inscriptions and the time to which the coin dates are already practically indistinguishable.

Proof coins (translated from English as improved) are highest quality, which is possible during minting. Such samples are made for collectors. The degree of polished preservation is not a characteristic of the condition of the coin, it is a certain production technology. If the handling process has been disrupted (without a protective shell), the highest level of quality is lost, and such coins can be graded according to the degree of preservation common to ordinary coins.

In most cases, collectible quality begins to be assigned to coins with a degree of preservation not lower than XF or VF. However, all classifications are still conditional. Therefore, one coin may have different grades from different sources.

In addition to the quality of coinage and possible wear during circulation, which are fundamental criteria for all classifications and gradations, another important factor affects the characteristics of coins. This is a possible mechanical or chemical influence. Below we will give examples, most of which demonstrate the disadvantages that coins received due to being in the ground, as well as due to exposure large quantity human hands, which can be collectors themselves, archaeologists, restorers, and so on.

Gentle cleaning can either improve the condition of the coin or destroy it. Auction catalogs, in addition to descriptions, often contain characteristics of the condition in which the surface and patina on the surface of the coin are.

Bronze-copper coins that have no patina on their surface are valued significantly less than those that have preserved patina. Instances with the most beautiful patina increase significantly in price. After all, the presence of such a plaque is strong evidence of the authenticity of the coin.

1. Darkened surface of a silver coin. Silver coins may darken over time or have a naturally darker tone than usual. Such coins are valued by some collectors more than coins with a bright silver sheen.
2. Multi-colored coloring. Silver coins may have shades different color, the appearance of which can be caused by aggressive chemical exposure. If the rainbow-colored patina is of natural origin, then such a coin is very highly valued, perhaps several times higher than the value of a coin made from white silver similar degree of preservation.
3. Completely cleaned surface. Most of the coins found not very long ago are characterized by absolutely clean surfaces. A number of coins deteriorate or are completely destroyed during cleaning; some can be cleaned successfully. This primarily applies to silver coins, which are cleaned with a non-concentrated acid solution. In addition to the likelihood of completely ruining the specimen, a significant disadvantage of this method is that along with the dirt being cleaned, reliability indicators are also eliminated. Conservators with considerable experience prefer to leave part of the surface unrefined so that originality can be guaranteed.
4. Green patina color. This patina has a uniform and dense structure of various shades. The most common one is green.
5. Olive patina color. The green patina can transform from a light olive tone to almost black.
6. Black patina color. A fairly common phenomenon, which when viewed in real form looks much more interesting than the image in photographs.
7. The patina is red. This color usually appears as isolated blotches on coins with other patinas. But there are cases when the area covered by it is of sufficient size to be able to separate it into a separate classification.
8. Blue (blue) patina. This shade of plaque is quite rare, but it can still be found. It is more likely that the composition of the soil is somehow predisposed to creating a patina of a certain shade. That is why one territory where coins were found is characterized by one color, and much less often - different ones.
9. Earthy deposits on patina. In some cases, the plaque is mixed with fairly compacted soil sediment. This sample looks very attractive. Such surface oxidation is more typical for the southern part of the Roman Empire.
10. Surface with contrasts. As a result of plaque wear at the most prominent points of the relief, a contrasting tone appears.
11. High density patina. A characteristic that is valued by many numismatists. However, excess patina hides minor details under its layer.
12. Destroyed patina. Plaque that is too dense may have chipped areas along the edges. Collectors prefer a more durable patina. After all, due to chips and abrasions on the surface, corrosion may develop, after which the coin is destroyed.
13. Uneven rust. When the patina is distributed unevenly over the surface, the appearance of the coin is worse than without it completely. The best way out- Carefully and accurately clean the coin.
14. Chocolate patina. Coins with no patina over time, if stored correctly, acquire a secondary patina of a dark brown hue. A number of copies of this plan look especially impressive.
15. Remains of the silver layer. The use of a thin silver coating on coins results in rapid wear and tear when used. This coin does not look very aesthetically pleasing. In most cases, collectors use special means for tinting coins, bringing them to black.
16. Porosity of the structure. In the absence of patina, the surface may be characterized by high density or have a porous structure. The latter is typical for specimens that were found in bodies of water or as a result of too aggressive cleaning. Due to non-compliance with the proportions in the Hellenistic alloys and coins of a number of provinces of Rome, they were produced in unsatisfactory condition.
17. Partial surface porosity. Excessive surface porosity may not be observed on the entire coin. With a successful combination of circumstances, the most important elements may be preserved.
18. Uneven surface. Due to incorrect cleaning, many coins turn out damaged with unevenness, roughness and multi-colored areas of the surface.
19. Coins with corrosion. If the coins are heavily corroded, they are most likely coins dating back to the first century, when they were made of brass.
20. Heavily “pockmarked” surface. If the removal of a certain part of the metal is carried out mechanically and is carried out unsuccessfully, you may end up with a coin of very poor quality with a “pockmarked” surface.
21. Unnatural surface appearance. The polished surface, as well as possible restoration of missing parts, can look very unnatural. Therefore, collectors are suspicious of such coins and do not welcome their presence in their collections.
22. Fake. If a false restoration was carried out, then this is already a real fake, which looks ridiculous and will not be accepted by any collector.
23. A coin that is cracked. Cracks are a very serious defect that can destroy the specimen.
24. Broken jagged edge. Such a flaw can be an indicator of a coin from ancient times, when the quality of the blanks was low, but also the result of poor cleaning or violation of storage rules.
25. Scratches on the surface. If there are few of them and they are thin enough, then such a defect is not too noticeable.
26. Coin with cut edges. Silver coins from ancient Roman times were often trimmed to create a reserve of precious metals. Although the action was considered to be against the law, such manipulations were quite common.
27. The coin is a decoration. Coins made of gold were often used as decoration, so traces of removed holes can be discerned on them.

When coins are sold at a numismatic auction, they must be assessed by professionals. In addition to the value due to its rarity, the safety of the coins is also important, the decoding of which should be known to every numismatist in order to know how to determine the price.

Professional dealers and collectors primarily pay attention to such criteria as the condition, type and degree of preservation of the coin. All this constitutes the concept of its collectible or numismatic value. It is especially important to correctly determine the cost antique coins, which had been kept in someone's collection for a long time, perhaps incorrectly, and were also in free circulation. Often these coins have a high degree of damage or wear.

Even a very common coin can be equated to very rare if it has a high, almost perfect degree of preservation. Small differences, including those that may not be noticeable to the naked eye additional equipment, often determine its cost.

Designations of the degree of preservation of coins according to classification

It's a matter that requires hard work and experience. And although there are general criteria, often the opinion of experts can differ greatly due to huge amount factors influencing such an assessment.

Classification of coins by degree of preservation

The condition of each coin can be determined according to standards that apply throughout the world, and which guide numismatists and appraisers.

You can often see that where the quality of the coin should be written, there is a mark such as proof. This gives rise to a lot of controversy about what it really is. So, the proof has nothing to do with the condition of the coins. Proof is a method of minting a coin. When a new stamp is developed and approved, proof coins are first made.

If a coin has abrasions or damage, it is graded on a general scale. The classification of coin condition is as follows:

1) Uncirculated. Coins that are in perfect condition. In this case, there should be no abrasions, chips or deep scratches. There must be a minted shine, and the design of the coin must be perfectly preserved. The name is translated from English as “did not circulate” and means that the coin was handed over to collectors immediately after production or for storage; it was not in circulation.

This gradation has its own subtypes, it is called MS or mint state - there are 11 of them from MS 60 to 70.

2) About Uncirculated. This means that the coin is not of Uncirculated quality. AU has its own subtypes, and they are designated (AU 50, 53, 55 and 58).

3) There is also the most highest degree safety, but it is not always used - Brilliant uncirculated (BU). These coins have never been in circulation and have no defects at all.

4) Extremely Fine. In this way they denote coins that have been in circulation for some time, but not for long. Small abrasions on the relief parts of the coin are allowed, as well as at least 90% of the legibility of the design. This type is designated as XF and has subtypes according to the Sheldon system XF 40 and XF 45.

5) Very Fine. This grade means "very good", the design on the coin should be 75% distinguishable (details), and the coins themselves may have significant abrasions, scratches and smoothing of the relief. This degree has 4 subtypes 20, 25, 30 and 35, and is designated as VF.

6) Fine. The coins are in good condition. Small details of the design should be on half the surface of the coin. Chips, abrasions and scratches can be any, but general details the images on the coin are viewed. The degree of gradation is designated as F, and according to the Sheldon scale it has two subtypes - 12 and 15.

7) Very Good. The penultimate level of the degree of preservation. Coins that have been graded according to this gradation have been preserved satisfactorily. The design on the coin is significantly damaged, only 20-30% can be seen, it has two subtypes - 8 and 10, designation - VG.

8) Good. The coin is in poor condition. The damage is very severe, only large details of the pattern can be seen, two subtypes are distinguished - 4 and 6, designated by the letter G.

Coin safety table

Other disadvantages of coins

May have dark spots, be completely or slightly darkened, or have a rainbow color. This occurs due to the oxidation of silver. Darkened silver is formed when it interacts with hydrogen sulfide in the air. Often this color is valued more expensive by many collectors than pure silver. If the coin has been exposed to different substances, it may have a rainbow color. Natural origin This color increases the value of the coin.

Absolutely - usually this characteristic is given to a coin that has been cleaned. The disadvantage is that any signs of authenticity in this case are completely absent. Usually, coins are cleaned not from patina or a uniform layer of oxides, but from harmful or unsightly stains. Sometimes part of the coin is left uncleaned so that its condition can be seen to assess authenticity.

Often the coin has traces of physical or chemical influence. Sometimes some of these imperfections can be removed by cleaning, but remember that there is also a layer on the coin that forms over time and protects the metal from corrosion - patina. When cleaning, it is very important that the patina remains, as this can not only compromise the integrity of the main part of the coin, but also greatly reduce its value. Especially on copper and bronze coins, a beautiful patina can increase the value of the coin significantly. In catalogs, such characteristics of the condition of coins are most often found.

The patina may have several different colors, it depends on its origin and use. The following patina colors are distinguished:

• Green, the most common; it can be smooth and dense.
• Olive is a subspecies of green.
• Black patina is also considered a subspecies of green and looks very good.
• Red patina. This patina covers the coin unevenly, but in spots. It is classified this way if it covers a large area.
• Blue patina. This color is very rare; perhaps the coin lay in the ground for some time, and the composition of the soil gave it this shade.
• Earthy. Coins with such a patina are found in the provinces of the Roman Empire. Often combined with earthen deposits, similar to the effect of the patina being rubbed off from the top points of a coin.

Types of patina:

1. Contrasting surface. Patina is not present on the entire surface of the coin, but at the highest points of the relief; it has wear.
2. Dense patina. This surface of the coin is highly valued, but if the layer is too thick, some details of the design may not be visible.
3. Chapped. Patina that may have chips or wear around the edges. It is not rated very highly, since through such chips the process of damage to the metal can begin.
4. Patina with spots. Often looks worse than a coin with no patina at all. Such coins are cleaned so that they are then covered with a secondary patina.
5. Secondary patina. After cleaning or stripping the coin of its patina under other circumstances, provided proper storage it is formed anew. It is also called “chocolate” because it has Brown color. Instances with such a patina have a beautiful appearance.

Coins that were originally coated with silver may lose it during circulation. Usually it looks sloppy and unsightly, so it must be tinted with sulfur compounds, which gives a black color.

If the coin has not been stored correctly and does not have a preserved patina, it may have a porous structure. Such coins are often found in rivers and are the result of exposure to active substances. There were coins in the Roman provinces that were originally minted in this condition. The porous surface may only be present on some part of the coin. This is referred to as a "partially pitted surface".

The term "rough and mottled surface" refers to mottled surfaces that are uneven and whose appearance is considered deteriorated. This result can be achieved, among other things, by improper cleaning.

Pitted with caverns refers to a surface, most of which is affected by corrosion. Found on coins over a thousand years old made of brass.

A machined coin is a coin whose surface bears marks from sharp tools so strong that it has an ugly appearance.

Unnaturally shiny - if the coin has lost a significant part of its details during the polishing process. It is possible that such a coin was restored, but some details of the design were replaced.

False restoration, low quality fake:

• Cracked coin. The presence of any cracks on a coin is very dangerous, it can seriously damage the coin itself and cause corrosion.
• Broken edge. This is typical for most coins from the period of antiquity. But in addition, this can also happen due to improper cleaning and operation. Such breaking off is also typical for coins that were minted on a blank with a crack.
• Scratched surface. A coin that was in circulation. If there are not too many scratches, then they are invisible, but this happens when it is not made of a soft alloy.
• Test strike. Certain traces of checking the quality of filling the inner surface of the coin with metal.
• Trimmed coin. Often in ancient Rome there was a practice of cutting the thin flange of coins made of precious metals. It was illegal, but common nonetheless. Such a coin is valued much lower.
• Former jewelry. Ancient coins that were used as jewelry have this characteristic. They were often framed with precious metals and show signs of this, such as protrusions or marks.

The condition of a coin is a very important characteristic of it. Therefore, coins in a collection must be stored correctly. It is desirable that they have special packaging that protects them from harmful effects. You must handle the coin with special care, always handle it only by the edge and with gloves, otherwise it will lose its value.

To clearly and accurately assess the condition of the coin, a special classification scale is used, which describes in detail the characteristics of each gradation. This classification is used by numismatists all over the world, and advertisements for the sale of coins must indicate their objective condition.

Polished state of preservation of the coin - PF

The polished state is the highest degree of preservation of a coin, which is ensured by certain measures applied immediately after its production. These are typically specially crafted collectible coins that are minted by hand and then placed directly into packaging. These coins are characterized by:

• coin mugs polished to a mirror shine, including the edge part;
• etched parts of the design on stamps to obtain a specific matte finish of the convex parts of the image;
• polished stamp field for more expressive and clean coinage;
• minting by hand in several strokes, due to which the stamp recesses are completely filled with metal, which ensures excellent elaboration of the smallest details of the design;
• placing coins in transparent plastic packaging to protect them from contact with fingers and the appearance of stains or micro-scratches.

This is how collectible coins are made today, but most of these rules were followed in the past, including Tsarist Russia, in the manufacture of collectible or donative (gift) coins.

International designations for polished coins:

• V English classification- Proof (PF)
• in German - Polierte Platte (PP) or spiegelglanz
• in French - Flan Bruni (FB)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - PF1-PF70
• in Scandinavian countries - M, polerad

Excellent state of preservation with mirror shine - PL

This category of coin quality was introduced into the classification relatively recently. It refers to coins that were struck under normal mass production conditions, but from highly polished blanks and using quality dies. As a rule, these are the first few hundred copies produced with new dies, or a random combination of circumstances that results in better-than-usual examples being produced. These coins are distinguished from the polished state by the lack of edge polishing, flaws in the polishing of the field and an insufficiently matted design. Nevertheless, they are very popular among collectors and are valued quite highly.

International designations for excellent condition with a mirror finish:

• in English classification - Prooflike (PL)
• in German - stempelfrich
• in French - presque poli
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - MS with Prooflike addition, for example, MS67(PL)
• in Scandinavian countries - 0-M,polerad 0

Excellent state of preservation of the coin - UNC

These are coins that have not been in circulation and have little or no damage. The smallest scratches or burrs visible only to the naked eye are acceptable on the surface, which are formed by mutual friction of coins poured into bags and transported in these bags inside the mint. Distinctive feature UNC coins have a fresh shine of polished metal, which is called a “chandelier”. They say about such coins: they are practically untouched. Among numismatists they are called “uncirculated” or “anz” for short.

International designations for excellent condition:

• in the English classification - perfect uncirculated, as well as simply uncirculated (UNC)
• in German - erstabschlag (EA), stempelglanz (STGL, ST)
• in French - fleur de coin (FDC)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - MS70, MS69, MS68, MS67, MS66, MS65, MS64, MS63, MS62, MS61, MS60
• in Scandinavian countries - 0

Near Excellent State of Conservation - XF-UNC

Coins in almost excellent condition were in circulation for a very short time. They have lost the distinct chandelier, but remnants of shine are still present. In addition to technological damage characteristic of UNC, there may be minor scratches received in monetary circulation. They can be designated among CIS numismatists as unc-, xf+ or xf/unc.

International designations for near excellent condition:

• in the English classification - choice almost uncirculated, as well as almost uncirculated, choice about uncirculated, about uncirculated (XF-UNC)
• in German - bankfrisch (BF), unzirkuliert (UNZ)
• in French - fleur de coin (FDC), superbe (SUP)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - AU58, AU55, AU53, AU50
• in Scandinavian countries - 0.01

Excellent state of preservation of the coin - XF

This is the name given to coins that have been in circulation for some time. This condition is characterized by the presence of visible small abrasions in the highest areas of the relief, however, the design is well preserved in all, even the smallest details. Scratches and nicks are only very small, almost indistinguishable without a magnifying glass. In some places, residual chandelier may remain in the recesses between the details of the design. Numismatists call such coins “ixfine” or “xf”.

International designations for excellent condition:

• in English classification - extremely fine (XF)
• in German - vorzueglich (VZ), vorzueglich erhalten (VZE)
• in French - superbe (SUP)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - XF45, XF40
• in Scandinavian countries - 01

Almost excellent state of preservation of the coin - VF-XF

Due to the rather long period of circulation, quite noticeable abrasions of the protruding areas have formed on the surface of the coin, however, the contours of the design remain clearly visible, and the smallest details are not damaged. There is no metallic sheen even in the recesses; the surface may have traces of minor technological damage. Among numismatists in the CIS, such coins are designated vf/xf, xf-, vf+.

International designations for almost excellent condition:

• in the English classification - choice extremely fine, about extremely fine (VF-XF)
• in German - vorzueglich (VZ), sehr schon (SS), sehr schoen erhalten
• in French - superbe (SUP), tres tres beau (TTB)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - VF35, VF30
• in Scandinavian countries - 01.1+

Very good state of preservation of the coin - VF

This characteristic applies to the coin, it is enough long time was in monetary circulation, as a result of which there are quite noticeable abrasions not only on the protruding parts, but also on the entire rest of the surface. Some small details are no longer visible or have been completely erased, the contours are blurred, and there are small scratches and nicks. CIS numismatists define this condition as vf.

• in the English classification - very fine, choice very fine (VF)
• in German - sehr schon (SS), sehr schoen erhalten
• in French - tres tres beau (TTB)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - VF25, VF20
• in Scandinavian countries - 1+

Good state of preservation of the coin - F

This coin was in active circulation for a long time, due to which the small details of the relief were practically erased, but the general contour of the design is clearly visible - the outer contour of the coat of arms, the silhouette of the imperial portrait, etc., with small strokes completely absent. However, the denomination and date of issue are clearly visible. There may be scratches and nicks on the surface that do not disturb the design. IN good condition coins are designated by numismatists with the letter f or "fine".

International designations for very good condition:

• in English classification - fine (F)
• in German - schon (S), schoen erhalten
• in French - tres beau (TB)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - VF15, VF12
• in Scandinavian countries - 1

Satisfactory state of preservation of the coin - VG

This is the definition of a coin that has been in active and long-term circulation. The design is partially erased; only the largest elements of the obverse and reverse can be distinguished; the collar and small details are practically indistinguishable. The relief is almost at the same height as the field of the coin; the denomination and date of issue may also be partially erased. There may be abrasions or gouges on the surface caused by contact with hard objects. Domestic numismatists classify such specimens as “verigud” or vg.

International designations for satisfactory condition:

• in English classification - very good (VG)
• in German - gut erhalten (GE)
• in French - tres bien conservee (TBC)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - VG10, VG8
• in Scandinavian countries - 2

Weak state of preservation of the coin - G

On coins in a state of poor preservation, as a rule, practically no information has been preserved that would allow identifying the date of its minting and denomination. From the design of the obverse and reverse, as a rule, only a blurred outline remains; no details suitable for accurate classification can be made out. The value of a piece is determined mainly by the cost of the metal. Among numismatists, such coins are called “gud”, “g” or “scrap”.

International designations for weak state:

• in English classification -good (G), poor (PR)
• in German - gering erhalten
• in French - bien conservee (BC)
• in American according to Dr. V. Sheldon - G6, G4, G3, P1
• in Scandinavian countries - 3

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