British Coin Grading
Below is the British grading system to describe the quality of a coin using terms like ‘Very Fine’ or ‘Uncirculated’. This system differs slightly from the Sheldon Scale that uses a numerical scale to define quality.
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FDC
Fleur De Coin
A ‘Fleur De Coin’ grade describes a coin that is in a mint state. For a coin to receive this grade it must feature superb physical qualities that include a well-centred effigy, a mint lustre, an exceptional strike, no flaws, and which has preserved its mint condition. This grade is very rarely used. |
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UNC
Uncirculated
‘Uncirculated’ describes a coin that hasn’t been in circulation for legal tender and has retained its original condition. The coin may feature a few imperfections from the production process but will feature a distinctive lustre and strong visual appeal. |
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EF
Extremely Fine
An ‘Extremely Fine’ coin grading describes a coin that features multiple physical attributes, including mint lustre, sharp detailing, and faint evidence of circulation. These signs can include minimal scratches, but these minor blemishes can only be seen upon close examination. |
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VF
Very Fine
A ‘Very Fine’ coin grading describes a coin that features limited sign of wear on its raised surface. For a coin to receive this grade it must feature obvious but relatively restricted wear on the highest portions of the coin, which has also experienced minimal circulation. |
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F
Fine
'Fine’ is a coin grading that describes a coin that has experienced considerable use within circulation. The grade also describes the coin’s apparent sign of wear on the raised surface of its design. Subsequently, with this grading the coin is still collectable. |
How does the British Grading System Compare to Coin Collectors?
| British Grading | General Coin Collector Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| FDC (Fleur De Coin) | MS-67 to MS-70 (Mint State) | Perfect condition, no flaws, full mint lustre. Very rare. |
| UNC (Uncirculated) | MS-60 to MS-66 (Mint State) | No wear from circulation, sharp details, may have minor marks. |
| EF (Extremely Fine) | AU-50 to AU-58 (About Uncirculated) | Slight signs of handling, minor contact marks, nearly full details. |
| VF (Very Fine) | F-20 to F-35 (Fine to Very Fine) | Light wear on high points, visible details, some mint lustre. |
| F (Fine) | VG-8 to VG-15 (Very Good to Fine) | Considerable wear, but major design elements still visible. |
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G (Good) (not listed in British system) |
G-4 to G-6 (Good) | Heavy wear, some details lost, but coin is identifiable. |
| AG (About Good) (not listed in British system) | AG-3 (About Good) | Very worn, almost smooth, but date and design still readable. |