What to Know About Grading Rare Coins


A Quick Guide to Grading Rare Coins

When it comes to rare coins, there are a lot of factors that go into their value, especially the grade they are assigned by a professional. At Austin Rare Coins & Bullion, we are rare coin dealers who have a passion for all things rare coins. We’ve put together a quick guide on what you need to know about grading rare coins. Learn more below and get in touch with us if you have any questions.

Coin collector examining rare coin

What Does the Rare Coin Grading Process Involve?

When it comes to rare coins, the grading process is important because it has a big impact on their value. It involves looking at a number of factors, including the coin’s age, luster, strike, surface condition, and overall eye appeal. In most cases, a grading scale is used in order to give the coin a numeric grade.

Examining rare coin with magnifying glass

What Is the Sheldon Scale (Coin Grading Scale)?

Named after William Sheldon, the Sheldon Scale is a 70-point coin grading scale that is commonly used in order to determine the condition of a coin. The higher on the scale a coin is, the more valuable it will be.

Collection of rare coins

About the Sheldon Scale Grades

Here’s a quick rundown of each rare coin grade on the Sheldon Scale, from highest to lowest:

  • Circulated (1-45) — A coin that has been used in circulation for public use and shows wear and tear or damage.
  • About Uncirculated (46-58) — A coin that has only barely been circulated and shows little to no wear and tear.
  • Uncirculated (59-70) — A coin that has never been used in circulation before and is in pristine or "mint" condition.
Professional grading rare coins

Get Your Coins Graded by the Experts

If you have rare coins that you want to get graded, our team at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion can help. We are experienced rare coin dealers who can grade your coins and give you an accurate estimate of their value.

Do you have a rare coin collection that needs grading? Contact our rare coin dealers at Austin Rare Coins & Bullion today to learn more about our rare coin grading process!

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