coin grading
Coin grading is the process of evaluating the condition and quality of a coin. This assessment helps collectors and investors determine a coin's value based on its physical appearance, including factors like wear, luster, and any imperfections. Grading scales, such as the Sheldon Scale, are commonly used to categorize coins from "Poor" to "Mint State."
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 fair trading and collecting in the numismatic community.