Coin Grading
Coin grading is the process of evaluating the condition and quality of a coin. This assessment helps collectors and investors understand a coin's value based on its physical appearance, including factors like wear, scratches, and luster. Grading scales, such as the Sheldon Scale, range from 1 to 70, with higher numbers indicating better quality.
Professional grading services, like the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC), provide expert evaluations. These organizations assign grades and encapsulate coins in protective holders, ensuring their condition is preserved. Accurate grading is essential for buying, selling, and trading coins in the numismatic market.