Categories of preservation of ancient coins. Determining the condition of coins

What is the safety of a coin? By what signs can you determine whether it is good or bad? Is it of collectible interest or not? What does XF or MS 64 mean? Let's try to figure it out and give a description of each degree of preservation, understandable to the Russian language, compiled taking into account the coin classification systems used in a number of countries (the International Coin Grading System, the Sheldon Grading System, various auction houses, etc. d.) according to such important pricing parameters as the physical characteristics of the quality of the coin. Formed by practice, the categories of a coin’s physical condition reflect, on the one hand, the features of the coin’s minting technology (minting quality, manufacturing technology), and on the other hand, the degree of its physical preservation, i.e. the presence on the surface of a given specimen of more or less significant damage acquired by the coin during production, storage and circulation. The physical characteristics of the quality of coins, being the same for any type of coin product, can be applied to both coins and coin-shaped commemorative medals and tokens.

Many years of practice in countries with developed numismatic markets have developed a number of generally accepted indicators for assessing coins based on their physical characteristics. These criteria are included in the coin grading scale proposed below. Since the Russian language has not yet developed the corresponding special terminology for the physical quality of coins, below are the conventional terms of various degrees of preservation of coins in comparison with existing terms abroad, compared with the classifier for assessing the condition of coins in this essay.

"Polished Statement of the Coin"

A separate chapter should highlight coins minted using improved technology. "Polished"(proof) - this is not the condition of the coin, but the technology of its production. Modern proof technology includes the following stages:

“etching” stamps to give a matte finish to the entire surface of the design, rising above the field of the coin
embossing in several strokes, which ensures complete filling of all internal cavities of the stamp with metal, and as a result, the complete absence of “unchased” and the smallest elaboration of all the details of the design
English* (proof – “pf”).
French (flan bruni – “fb”).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish (M, polerad).

The photographs below show examples of proof coins with varying degrees of preservation:

Photo No. 1. 1895 ruble intact PF62 CAMEO. CAMEO – in in this case should be understood as a clearly visible boundary between the polished field of the coin and the matte design.

Photo No. 2. 1851 ruble intact PF62.

Photo No. 3. 1826 ruble intact PF63.

Photo No. 4. Kopek 1830, preserved PF64 BN. BN in this case is short for brown and should be read as brown (meaning patina Brown).

Photo No. 5. 1892 ruble intact PF64 CAMEO.

Photo No. 6. Ruble 1914 (minted in memory of the 200th anniversary of the victory of the Russian fleet in a naval battle) in PF64 condition.

Photo No. 7. 1874 ruble intact PF65.

Photo No. 8. 3 rubles 1829 preserved PF66 ULTRA CAMEO. ULTRA CAMEO – in this case should be understood as a pronounced contrast between the polished field of the coin and the matte pattern.

"Excellent preservation of the coin, with a pronounced mirror shine"

IN Lately a category of coin quality has appeared in numismatic circles "Prooflike" , which combines some stages of proof technology. This applies to coins made on conventional machines using ordinary, but more carefully processed blanks and tools (a completely random process). Such coins include, for example, those minted with a used polished stamp on a regular blank, minted with a regular stamp on a polished blank, the first hundreds of coins minted with a new stamp (the so-called “first strikes of the stamp”). Distinctive features prooflike coins from proof are: insufficiently matted relief, not a perfectly mirror surface of the coin field, lack of a polished edge. Coins of this category are not polished, but they compare favorably with regular coinage with a beautiful, pronounced luster of the field, and also have a high value and popularity among collectors. The designation prooflike does not refer to the safety category of coins, but to avoid any inconsistencies with international terminology (the International Coin Grading System), we will assume that prooflike is the degree of safety of a coin.

Excellent preservation of the coin, with a pronounced mirror shine:

English (prooflike, brilliant uncirculated).
German (stempelfrich).
French (presque poli).
American, developed by Dr. V. Sheldon (usually these are coins in MS condition with an indication after the prooflike gradation, for example, MS67(prooflike) or MS67(PL) means that the coin is in MS67 condition with a pronounced mirror-like luster of the field.
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish (0-M, polerad 0).

Photo No. 9. Poltina 1848, preserved MS64 PL. PL in this case should be read as prooflike.

"Excellent safety of the coin":

English (perfect uncirculated, superb gem uncirculated, gem uncirculated, select uncirculated, uncirculated).
German (erstabschlag - “ea”, stempelglanz - “stgl” - “st”).
French (fleur de coin (“fdc”)).
American, developed by Dr. W. Sheldon**(MS70, MS69, MS68, MS67, MS66, MS65, MS64, MS63, MS62, MS61, MS60).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(0).

This is a coin that has not been in circulation and therefore has no damage due to circulation, or there are almost no traces of circulation. They may have technological damage (very small scratches, burrs, notches visible to the naked eye), formed from coins hitting each other at the mint, when poured into bags, during intra-shop and warehouse movements of coins in these bags at the mint. Coins of this quality often have a fresh, matte metallic sheen throughout the entire surface, known as a “chandelier.” The original shine of the coin has been preserved in the form in which it came out of the stamp. As they say, the coin is “virtually untouched.” Defined by the term “ans”, “uncirculated”, unc in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 10. 20 stamps 1912 preserved MS66.

Photo No. 11. 5 Rubles 1762 preserved MS65.

Photo No. 12. Ruble 1841 (minted on the occasion of the wedding of the heir to the throne Alexander Nikolaevich) in MS64 condition.

Photo No. 13. 5 kopecks 1838 preserved MS64 RB. RB(red-brown) in this case should be understood as red-brown color shade patinas.

Photo No. 14. 5 rubles 1887 preserved MS63.

Photo No. 15. Ruble 1912 (minted on the occasion of the opening of the monument to Alexander III in Moscow) in MS62 condition.

Photo No. 16. 15 rubles 1897 preserved MS62.

Photo No. 17. One and a half rubles – 10 zlotys (“Family ruble”) in the safety of MS61.

Photo No. 18. 1865 ruble intact MS60.

"Almost excellent preservation of the coin":

English (choice almost uncirculated, choice about uncirculated, almost uncirculated, about uncirculated).
German (bankfrisch – “bf”, unzirkuliert – “unz”).
French (fleur de coin - “fdc”, superbe - “sup”).
American, developed by Dr. W. Sheldon (AU58, AU55, AU53, AU50).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish (0.01).

This is a coin that was in circulation for a very short time. Apart from the usual processing damage mentioned above, this coin generally does not have a pronounced stamp sheen (remnants of the stamp sheen are present) and has no relief wear associated with handling, with the exception of rare small scratches. Defined by the terms unc-, xf+, xf/unc in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 19. 1808 ruble intact AU58.

Photo No. 20. 5 rubles 1831, preserved AU55.

Photo No. 21. Ruble 1804 intact AU53.

Photo No. 22. Ruble 1741 intact AU50.

Photo No. 23. Ruble 1822 intact AU50.

"Excellent preservation of the coin":

English (extremely fine).
German (vorzueglich – “vorz” – “vz”, vorzueglich erhalten).
French (superbe – “sup”).
American, developed by Dr. W. Sheldon (XF45, XF40).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(01).

Refers to a coin that was in circulation. The coin in this state of preservation has slight abrasions visible to the naked eye on the highest areas of the relief that are insignificant in area (on the hair of the portrait, on the paws of the eagles, on the crowns, on the coats of arms, etc.). 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, nicks, or other serious defects. Residual traces of the chandelier may be present in the most inaccessible recessed places on the surface of the coin (interletter shine in the legend inscription, on the field in places of high relief, which prevents the wear of lower relief, in this case the area of the field around it, as a rule, this is the framing of “portrait” and “eagle” parts of the picture). Defined by the term “ixfine”, xf in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 24. Ruble 1732 intact XF40.

Photo No. 25. Ruble 1802 intact XF40.

"Almost excellent condition of the coin":

English (choice extremely fine, about extremely fine).
German (vorzueglich – “vorz” – “vz”, vorzueglich erhalten, sehr schon – “ss”, sehr schoen erhalten).
French (superbe - “sup”, tres tres beau - “ttb”).
American, developed by Dr. V. Sheldon (VF35, VF30).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(01.1+)

Coins of this category have been in circulation for a longer time, and have noticeable abrasions in all protruding areas of the relief, the smallest details of the relief are not damaged and are clearly distinguishable, the contours of the drawings are still quite sharp. There is no fresh metallic shine even in some areas. As in previous categories, minor scratches, nicks and burrs of technological origin are acceptable. There are no deep scratches or other serious damage. Defined by the terms xf-, vf+, vf/xf in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.
Photo No. 26. Ruble 1762 preserved VF35.

Photo No. 27. 5 rubles 1828, preserved VF30.

Photo No. 28. 10 Rubles 1776, preserved VF30.

"Very well preserved coin":

English (сhoice very fine, very fine – “vf”).
German (sehr schoen – “ss”, sehr schoen erhalten).
French (tres tres beau - “ttb”).
American, developed by Dr. V. Sheldon (VF25,VF20).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish (1+).

Refers to a coin that has been in circulation for a long time and has noticeable wear throughout its 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 deep small nicks are allowed, somewhat more serious than usual technological damage. Defined by the term “verifine”, vf in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 29. 25 kopecks 1704 preserved VF25

"Good condition of the coin":

English (fine – “f”).
German (schoen – “s”, schoen erhalten).
French (tres beau - “tb”).
American, developed by Dr. W. Sheldon (F15, F12).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(1).

The coin in this condition was in circulation for a long time. Almost all the details are erased and only the outline is visible, for example, the outline of the coat of arms without internal detail, a portrait drawing of the emperor with small details completely missing. The denomination and date of the coin must be clearly legible. Defined by the term “fine”, f in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 30. Ruble 1801 intact F15.

"Satisfactory safety of the coin":

English (very good – “vg”).
German (gut erhalten – “ge”).
French (tres bien conservee – “tbc”).
American, developed by Dr. V. Sheldon (VG10, VG8).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(2).

Refers to a coin with significant abrasions across the entire surface. Only large details of the drawings remained discernible; small fragments of decorative ornamentation were completely indistinguishable. Significant scratches, nicks, and nicks are possible. The relief part begins to merge with the field of the coin. The denomination and date, as well as other legend inscriptions, are not always readable. The inscriptions and date of minting are usually not readable; sometimes only by analogy with the same one, but in better condition, can the denomination of the coin be determined. Coins in this condition are only considered if they are extremely rare and are generally not considered collectible. Defined by the term “verigud”, vg in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 31. Coin from 1761, preserved VG6.

"Weak safety of the coin":

English (good – “g”, poor – “pr”).
German (gering erhalten).
French (bien conservee – “bc”).
American, developed by Dr. W. Sheldon (G6, G4, G3, P1).
Norwegian, Danish, Finnish, Swedish(3).

The coin cannot be defined and usually its value is determined by the price of the “jewelry” metal from which it was minted. Defined by the term “good”, g, “scrap” in numismatic circles in Russia and the CIS countries.

Photo No. 32. Coin from the time of Catherine II, preserved G6, probably 1795 or 1796.

*The United States uses the Sheldon Grading System, developed by American William Sheldon and based on a numerical rating of 1 (completely worn) to 70 (best possible) to determine the condition of coins.

**The English system was adopted as the International Coin Grading System. It is based on determining the condition of coins using certain words that describe their safety in literally, such as Extremely Fine, Very Good, etc.

Condition (or state of preservation)- the leading factor determining the collectible value of any coin. It characterizes the degree of its wear.

Even subtle differences in the preservation of some banknotes can lead to multiple changes in their numismatic value. Therefore, it is very important to correctly determine the degree of preservation.

Coin Grading Standards

There are several systems for determining the safety of metal banknotes. Typically, numismatists use the international standard, and for slab coins the Sheldon system is used.

Standards Compliance Table:

Uncirculated (UNC)

Ideal condition. The coin shows no signs of circulation. Characterized by stamp shine.

About Uncirculated (aUNC)

Almost excellent condition, but the coin still has minor wear that could have been caused during the production, storage and transportation of coins in bags.

Extremely Fine (XF)

In Russian numismatics, this gradation is designated by the words “exceptionally well preserved” or “excellent condition.” The coin was in circulation for a short time. The stamp shine is partially preserved. There are abrasions only on the protruding parts of the design; shallow scratches are possible.

Very Fine (VF)

Very well preserved. The coin has been in circulation longer, there are abrasions throughout the entire area, small details are smoothed out and are difficult to distinguish. There is no shine.

Fine (F)

Good condition. The coin is significantly worn due to long circulation. Small details have disappeared, the inscriptions and more than half of the drawing are still visible.

Very Good (VG)

Satisfactory condition. Only large parts of the relief have been preserved; small details have been completely erased. When compared with the original state, only a quarter of the image remains clearly visible.

Good (G)

Poor preservation. An extremely worn coin. Only the largest relief details remain visible.

Features of determining the degree of safety of coins

It is necessary to distinguish the quality of coinage from the degree of preservation. Banknotes can be minted in the following qualities:

Uncirculated - normal quality. Standard automated minting. It is mainly used for banknotes intended for circulation.
Diamond uncirculated - superior quality. During minting, additional measures are taken to eliminate the possibility of scratches during production, as well as when coins come into contact with each other.
Proof - top quality. Coins minted using this technology on polished blanks have a mirror-like field surface, while their relief is matte.
Proof-like - similar to "proof", but the mint does not guarantee full compliance necessary technology. For example, insufficient press power for strong impacts on the workpiece.

When removing improved quality coins (brilliant and proof) from individual packaging, if abrasions appear on them, they are assessed according to their degree of preservation (as well as standard minted items).

When establishing conservation, it is possible to use intermediate gradations using the plus or minus signs. For example, VF- or XF+

In addition to abrasions, it is necessary to take into account mechanical and chemical effects on the coin, which can manifest themselves in the form of: the appearance of patina, different colors, unnatural shine, cavities, etc.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the gradations outlined are very arbitrary. Therefore, the same coin can be classified into different categories by different numismatists.

Ancient and rare coins can be considered historical monuments , combining material and written sources of the time in which money was minted. The collectible and commercial value of metal coins depends on the state of preservation and authenticity.

Why is assessing the condition of a coin important?

The condition, type and degree of preservation of the coin is important criterion, which primarily attracts the attention of collectors and dealers involved in professional activity on the coin market. The quality of a coin determines its collector or numismatic value.

Collectible value is the difference between the actual cost of the metal from which the coin is made and the amount that numismatists are willing to pay for it.

When assessing the condition of a monetary unit, its numismatic price is determined. It is especially important to determine the condition of ancient coins that are heavily worn and damaged during long-term use or storage.

Old and rare coins are often heavily worn, which reduces their collectible value. It is much more difficult to acquire a well-preserved copy than damaged monetary units.

It is also worth noting the following fact: even if the coin is considered quite common, an ideally preserved unit often equated to rare species, which significantly increases its value on the coin market.

Small differences in the condition of a currency, which an inexperienced or novice numismatist cannot determine at first glance, sometimes create a huge difference in the price of a coin.

That is why novice collectors are advised to purchase coins that have a high degree of preservation and a minimum of damage or wear. Coin collections that are poorly preserved are often of low value and are not used for investment.

Assessing the condition of coins is a rather painstaking and complex matter and requires a lot of experience. There is a whole classification of features and standards, thanks to which you can evaluate the value and condition of an ancient or rare monetary unit. But sometimes the opinions of experts in assessing a particular coin can differ significantly due to many factors that determine the quality and safety of a monetary unit.

History of coin condition assessment

Despite the fact that people began collecting coins a long time ago, it was only in the 19th century that numismatics began to develop into a separate field. historical direction in science.

Western collectors, who devoted their entire lives to the study of coins, compiled the first catalogs on which other numismatists relied when assessing the condition of their collections. Also in the 19th century, such a concept as gradations(division) of the state of the coins.

The first divisions of the state of coins could not be called complex or detailed; the authors identified several stages of preservation of monetary units. However, soon more gradations appeared, thanks to which the assessment of monetary units became more and more accurate and thorough.

In the 20th century, the American Numismatic Association developed 6 main gradations, which to this day are the global standard for assessing the condition of coins:

Good;
Very Good;
Fine;

Very Fine;
Extremely Fine;
Uncirculated.

Also, do not forget about the contribution to the development of numismatics made by William Sheldon. An American scientist who significantly improved the system for determining the condition of coins developed by the American Numismatic Association.

Over the years, Sheldon studied early one-cent coins and developed a more thorough and detailed system for determining their numismatic value.

In 1940, the scientist published a work in which many degrees of preservation were described based on the gradations accepted by the association. IN scientific work a system was developed, which was eventually given the name of the author. The system made it possible to determine the safety of the coin 70 each point scale . The lower the score, the lower the numismatic and investment value of the coin.

Monetary units with the maximum score were valued quite expensively and were valued among collectors and investors.

Since 1970, the Sheldon system gained worldwide popularity and in a slightly modified form is used to assess the condition of all coins.

Modern classification of coin grading

Basically, determining the condition of a coin consists of assessing its safety. The more damaged the coin is, the more its design is erased, the less value it has. To determine the condition of a coin, generally accepted international standards are used, which are followed by collectors and coin appraisers. Today, there are many gradations by which the value of a monetary unit is determined.

PROOF (PF, Prf)

These terms apply to coins that were not issued for public use. Proof is rare collectible coins, made by a certain method of coining. Distinctive features: mirror-like shine of the field, matte relief of the design, perfect condition. There should be no visual damage, chips or scratches on the coins. They are highly valued due to their perfect condition and rarity.

Uncirculated (absolutely perfect condition)

When this gradation is established, the coin does not have no visual damage: abrasions, deep scratches, significant chips. All details of the picture are clearly visible. A monetary unit in ideal condition should retain its minted shine.

Excellent gradation allows for some visual errors: small scratches, barely visible nicks. According to the Sheldon scale, this gradation is divided into 11 subspecies (from MS 60 to MS 70). MS (“mint state”) is a marking related to the Uncirculated gradation.

It is also worth noting the intermediate gradations on the Sheldon scale, which cannot be fully attributed to the ideal state (AU 50, AU 53, AU 55 and AU 58). Such gradations are marked About Uncirculated.

Small scratches and barely noticeable abrasions are allowed on coins. Coins of this classification have great value and are popular with both collectors and investors.

Extremely Fine (excellent preservation)

This gradation allows light abrasions on the relief surfaces of the coin. With this classification, at least 90% of the small details of the picture must be distinguishable. According to the Sheldon system, excellent preservation is indicated by the XF 40 and XF 45.

Very Fine

This gradation is defined as a very good condition of the monetary unit. The coins show noticeable wear, scratches, and flattening on the raised surfaces. In this condition, more than 75% of the details of the pattern on the surface should differ. According to the Sheldon scale, coins fall into the following categories: VF 20, VF 25, VF 30, VF 35.

This grade is defined as the good condition of the coin. No more than 50% damage to the design, chips, abrasions, scratches is allowed. But the pattern on the surface must be visible. According to the Sheldon scale, coins with such damage are defined as F 12 and F 15.

Very Good

This is the penultimate step in assessing the condition of the coin. She is characterized as satisfactory condition. The design on the monetary unit at this gradation is significantly damaged, worn out by 70–75%. On the Sheldon scale, this gradation is designated VG 8 and VG 10.

Good or Poor (weak state)

At this gradation, the coins are very damaged. They show abrasions and scratches, only large details of the design are visible. According to the Sheldon system, coins are marked G 4 and G 6.

Defective coins

Often coins have significant mechanical damage: holes, large chips, deformation, delamination of the metal. TO this type This also includes counterfeit banknotes.

Defects that reduce the value of a coin

Coinage defects

Very often the value of a well-preserved coin is reduced due to partially minted details of the design. Unlike light abrasions, which do not greatly affect the visual quality of the coin, minting defects often “break” the design. Also, the cost of the coin is reduced by traces from the alignment of the blank, destruction of the stamp, and displacement of the minting stamp relative to the blank.

Mechanical defects

The appearance and condition of the coin are often spoiled by various defects that formed during use, improper storage or amateurish restoration. Mechanical defects also include deliberate destruction of the integrity of the coin. For example, a hole in a coin reduces its cost to almost zero, even if the item is in perfect condition and is quite rare. Coarse restoration using abrasive substances devalues coins.

Corrosion or damage to metal by chemical reagents

Very often, tarnished or corroded coins are treated by beginning numismatists with acids or other chemicals, which leads to damage to the monetary unit and, accordingly, to reducing its cost.

Coin shine

The brighter the minted luster of a coin, the more valuable it is. Units with the effect of “rotating rays” are in particular demand. This indicates that the coin was stored under ideal conditions.

Minor imperfections in surface condition

These include scratches, chips, burrs, burrs and other defects formed due to the friction of coins with each other. The fewer of these defects there are on the surface of the coin, the higher its value.

Professional grading or certification of coins

Modern innovations that have significantly impacted the quality and accuracy of coin grading include professional certification and the use of slacks. Weak- these are special plastic or glass containers in which a coin is placed for further storage in the collection. In the mid-1980s, independent expert companies appeared that assessed the value and condition of coins.

Coins were packed in slacks, who have been certified both their quality and authenticity were beyond doubt. At the same time, each coin, packed in a sealed package, received a unique barcode, serial number, and was entered into the catalog. The packaging indicated the denomination, date and country of issue, and the condition of the coin according to the Sheldon scale. It is impossible to remove the coin from the coin without damaging the seal of the package.

But oddly enough, weak coins are popular with investors, not real collectors. This is due to the fact that sealed packaging does not allow you to carefully examine or hold an ancient and expensive item in your hands.

To determine the collectible value of coins, the safety of the coin and its rarity are essential. In this article we will talk about determining the degree of safety of coins.

Our auction operates the following system for classifying the safety of ancient coins:

Poor - not identified, the coin cannot be determined;
Fair - almost not identifiable;
AG (almost good) - almost good;
G (good) - good (G-4, 6);
VG (very good) - very good;
F (fine) - excellent;
VF (very fine) - very excellent;
XF (extremely fine) - excellent;
AU (almost uncirculated) - almost uncirculated;
UNC (uncirculated or mint state) - uncirculated;

Coins highest degree intact, free from mechanical damage and embossing defects.

Uncirculated coins (English: "uncirculated"; German: "praegefrisch" and "bankfrisch"). These are coins that have not been in free circulation and therefore do not have damage associated with 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 passed through high-speed automatic counting machines, when poured into bags in bulk, and during in-shop and warehouse storage. movements in these bags both at mints and in storage facilities in preparation for their release into circulation. Coins of this quality typically have a fresh, matte metallic sheen throughout.

Uncirculated coins, minor minting defects are allowed (unstruck, peeling, stamp displacement, small scratches, etc.)

English: About Uncirculated, sometimes used Almost Uncirculated. The coins show virtually no wear, with only minor abrasions to the highest parts of the relief. Most of hammered shine is present, including on open surfaces. Defects of the coin circle (blank) as well as acquired defects correspond to this assessment.

Exceptionally well preserved (English: "extremly fine"; German: "vorzueglich erhalten"). They refer 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.

Very well preserved (English: "very fine"; German: "sehr schon erhalten"). Unlike previous grades of quality, coins of this category were in circulation for a longer time. The coins have noticeable abrasions in all protruding areas of the relief, the smallest details of the relief are already damaged, but are still distinguishable, the contours of the drawings are still quite sharp, the general appearance of the coin is good. There is no fresh metallic shine even in some areas. As in previous categories, minor scratches, nicks and burrs are acceptable.

Good preservation (English: "fine"; German: "schen erhalten"). 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 preservation (English: "Very good"; German: "sehr gut erhalten"). Refers to coins with significant abrasions across the entire surface. Only large details of the drawings and small fragments of decorative ornamentation remained discernible: ears of corn, plant leaves, dots, stars, etc. - almost completely erased. Significant scratches, nicks, and nicks are possible.

Satisfactory preservation (English: "good"; German: "gut erhalten"). Refers to coins on which only the main outlines of the designs remain visible. The inscription and date of issue are difficult to distinguish.

Coins of improved minting quality and proof (Proof), if they were in circulation without a protective capsule or other packaging and acquired abrasions and other damage, are also assessed for the degree of preservation as ordinary coins.

When determining the safety of a coin, intermediate values of these categories are used, such as: XF+, F+VF-, aUnc (almost ounces). Collectible quality coins are generally considered to be from the XF-VF range. This gradation is quite arbitrary, and different sources may evaluate the same coin differently.

The third factor, in addition to wear and workmanship, which are the basis of all standard gradations, must also take into account the chemical or mechanical stress to which the coin was subjected during circulation. For the most part, the examples below describe the imperfections of coins that have developed from being in the ground or coming into contact with the hands of collectors, treasure hunters, archaeologists, restorers, customs officials, etc.

Careful cleaning may improve the condition, but there is always the danger of completely destroying the coin. In auction catalogs, after the description of the coin, very often there is a description of the condition of the surface of the coin and the patina on this surface. Copper-bronze coins without patina are valued significantly lower than similar coins with patina. A particularly beautiful patina can significantly increase the price of a coin, being, among other things, an additional confirmation of the authenticity of a given specimen.

Let's look at the examples of the most frequently found characteristics of the condition of coins in catalogs, which have experienced various influences environment, often extremely hostile.

Tarnished silver coin.
A silver coin may have a dark tone, which many collectors tend to prefer over brighter silver. This tone is either natural, formed under the influence of time.
Rainbow color.
Silver coins can also have multi-colored tints that are caused by chemical exposure to various substances. If the iridescent patina is of natural origin, then the coin is valued higher (it can cost several times more than a white coin of similar condition.
A completely clean coin.
Many recently discovered coins have completely clean surfaces. Some coins are damaged during cleaning, some are cleaned quite professionally. This is especially true for silver coins, which are etched with weak acid solutions. The disadvantage of such actions, in addition to the likelihood of ruining the coin, is that when etching from the surface of the coin, along with dirt, the so-called “signs of authenticity”, for example, silver sulfide compounds, come off. Therefore, experienced restorers prefer to leave a small piece of uncleaned surface in a free area of the coin field or edge to confirm the authenticity of a given specimen.
Green patina.
The patina on this coin is smooth and dense, it can be the most different colors, but green is the most common among them.
Olive patina.
The green patina can change from light olive to almost black through a number of shades.
Black patina.
The black patina is very widespread and looks much better on the coin than in the photograph.
Red patina.
Red patina is usually found as spots on coins with patinas of other colors. But sometimes she covers enough large area to be classified separately.
Blue patina.
Light blue, in the good sense of the word, or blue is a rarer color for patina, however, it is found. It is possible that a certain type of soil tends to create its own particular patina color. As a result, coins with one patina color are usually found in the same area, but rarely with different ones.
Earthy patina.
Patina can be combined with dense earth deposits to create an attractive contrast. This is similar to the effect created by completely erasing the patina from the top points of the coin. This patina is characteristic of coins from the southern provinces of the Roman Empire.
Contrasting surface.
This tone, which contrasts with the patina, is the result of the patina wearing away at the high points of the surface so that the metal is even affected. The example coin has missing raised dots on the portrait.
Dense patina.
Dense patina is valued by numismatists, but when there is too much of it, fine details are lost under a thick layer.
Chapped patina.
The dense patina may be destroyed at the edges by chips or abrasions. Collectors prefer a patina that is hard and stable, because such chips can cause corrosion on the surface of the coin, and the coin will quickly die.
Patina with spots.
If the patina does not cover the coin evenly, but in chunks, it may look worse than no patina at all. It is necessary to try to clean such coins completely, observing a certain level of accuracy.
Secondary patina.
Over time, if properly stored, coins that lack patina begin to become covered with a secondary brown patina, the so-called “chocolate” patina. Some specimens, thanks to this patina, look very beautiful.
Remains of silvering.
Coins that were originally coated with only a thin layer of silver quickly lose some of the silver layer while in circulation. At the same time, the surface of the coin looks motley and untidy, so many collectors prefer to completely tint such coins to black using sulfur compounds.
Porous surface.
Coins without a surface patina may have a dense or porous surface. A porous surface is common on coins found in rivers or is the result of rough chemical cleaning. Some late Hellenistic or Roman provincial coins were originally minted in such poor condition, which was a consequence of the improper content of the ligature in the alloy.
Partially pitted surface.
The porous surface may not be on the entire coin, but only on some part of it. It’s great when the most important parts of the coin, such as the portrait, remain untouched. Thus, on the coin depicted, most of the minor details on the coin field in the lower part of the left half of the coin have been lost.
Rough and spotted surface.
Uneven, spotted and ugly surfaces that have spoiled appearance Many coins often result from improper cleaning of coins.
The surface is heavily pitted with caverns.
Corrosion has severely pitted and severely disfigured most surfaces. This kind of ugly corrosion is typical of first-century coins made of brass and aurihalcum.
Machined surface.
This coin demonstrates the removal of diseased metal mechanical tools, most likely a chisel. The result was a very poor coin with deep cavities.
Unnaturally shiny surface.
It is clear that the presented coin was polished, perhaps even “restored” with the restoration of lost parts, most likely with a metal cutter. If a coin is being cleaned and restored, the details must be specific to that coin. Julia Domna, remade into Manlia Scantilla, is a fake, even if the result of the work is good. I especially note that serious collectors never take “cut” coins, no matter how beautiful they are after that.
Fake restoration.
This is not just a fake, it is a bad fake, because it is designed for a collector who has not yet read a single catalogue.
Cracked coin.
Cracks can completely destroy a coin.
Broken edge.
Most antique coins have somewhat jagged edges due to the poor quality of the coin blanks, but breakage can occur due to cracks immediately after the coin leaves the mint. This damage can be either antique or the result of modern poor cleaning or careless storage.
Scratched surface.
Coins in circulation have fine scratches that are usually unnoticeable unless there are many of them.
Test strike.
Sometimes coins were checked to see whether they were solid metal or not.
Clipped coin.
Thin flange of silver coins Ancient Rome often trimmed at the edges by individuals who created a personal supply of the precious metal. Although illegal, this practice was very widespread, so that many coins have come down to us with the legend completely lost. Clearly, this reduces the value of the coin to the collector and negatively impacts the selling price.
Former jewelry.
Many gold coins were used as jewelry and they show marks from removed protrusions or holes.

Almost every home has old coins or things from past eras: someone collected stamps or “anniversary” rubles, some are inherited, some items are kept as family heirlooms. Sooner or later, many people ask the question: “How much does it cost?” Now people, as a rule, ask this question to the Internet, but it can be difficult to isolate from the mass of information the closest to reality. There are many rumors and legends about antiques and antiques, and, unfortunately, thanks to cinema and journalists, the image has become stronger in the mass consciousness that everything antique is worth huge money. In fact, age very often does not play a big role, nor does the metal in which a particular coin is minted; the price consists of a huge number of factors: rarity, degree of preservation, demand, etc. It’s not easy to figure this out, so usually searching for a coin on the Internet comes down to finding the coin itself high price, after which the owners are often in the false confidence that good money is already in their pocket. In fact, you need to understand that there are not many expensive coins or antiques, and that is why they are expensive. So, you found an old coin and decided to find out how much it was worth. As a rule, an Internet search yields discrepancies in prices for the same coin by several times, or even tens of times. The price is affected by a large number of various factors, one of the key ones is the degree of preservation. The most common system for determining it includes 7 main gradations:

Good (G) — Poor preservation.

Significant losses and abrasions over the entire surface of the coin. Less than 25% of the image has survived.

VeryGood (VG) – Satisfactory preservation.

Significant wear. At least 25% of the coin's image has been preserved.

Fine (F) – Good preservation.

There are noticeable abrasions due to the coin's time in circulation. At least 50% of the image has been preserved.

VeryFine (VF) – Very well preserved.

The coin has abrasions and smoothed details. At least 75% of the image has been preserved.

ExtremelyFine (XF) – Excellent preservation.

There may be minor abrasions on small parts, 90-95% of the image is preserved.

Uncirculated (UNC) - Excellent preservation.

The coin has not been circulated and may have traces of minor scratches from being stored in bags. The original stamp shine is present.

Proof (PF) – “Proof”, polished chasing.

Strictly speaking, this is not a degree of preservation, but a technology for minting coins with polished stamps, especially for collectors. Such coins were not in circulation and are characterized by a mirror field and matte relief.

We must understand that this system a little arbitrary and does not take into account some nuances. In the USA, a rating system has been developed that distinguishes 70 gradations of the degree of preservation - it is called the Sheldon scale. However, in Russia this scale is rarely used; nevertheless, the overwhelming number of numismatists rely on the basic system given above. As a rule, specimens in Very Fine condition and above are considered collectible - for the vast majority of collections this is the “lower” threshold. Coins in a condition worse than VF can be included in a collection in two cases: they must be either very rare or very cheap - in the latter case, novice numismatists may be tempted by them.