You and a collector friend are discussing a coin that each of you has just graded. Actually, the two of you are arguing because you disagree on the coin’s grade. Why the difference? Two possibilities follow. First, each of you are using a different frame of reference, i.e. a different set of grading standards. This Read More
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Toning can confuse even the best graders
Because of my grading activity at International Coin Certification Service I’m often asked “Do you really use a microscope to grade coins?” This is a regularly asked question because the stereo microscope is one of the first things people see when visiting the ICCS office. To exaggerate matters, I’m usually seen studying a coin with Read More
Mint state nickel coins can challenge the grader
The George V nickel series extends from 1922 through 1936. For mint state collectors it is a series that is a challenge. There are two reasons. First it is a difficult series to grade. Second, true mint state examples are very hard to find, especially in grades at or higher than MS-63. When high grade Read More