How to Identify Uncirculated Coins: A Complete Guide
Learn the key indicators of uncirculated coins and how to evaluate their condition effectively.
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To know if a coin is uncirculated, look for these indicators: 1. No signs of wear on the coin's surface, edges, or details. 2. Presence of the coin’s original luster and mint brilliance. 3. Often rated as MS (Mint State) on the Sheldon scale, typically ranging from MS60 to MS70. 4. Check for absence of scratches and contact marks, which indicates that the coin has not been handled. 5. Examine the packaging, as uncirculated coins are often sold in protective cases or mint-issued packaging.
FAQs & Answers
- What does MS mean in coin grading? MS stands for Mint State, which indicates that the coin has not been circulated and retains its original luster.
- How can I tell if a coin is truly uncirculated? Look for a lack of wear, original luster, and the absence of scratches or contact marks.
- What is the Sheldon scale? The Sheldon scale is a numeric grading system ranging from 1 to 70 used to evaluate the condition of coins, with MS60 to MS70 representing high-quality uncirculated coins.
- Should uncirculated coins be kept in original packaging? Yes, uncirculated coins are often sold in protective cases or mint-issued packaging, which helps preserve their condition.