Hello,

As said in a previous post of mine, I am new to all of this coin collecting and I wondered if someone would be able to help me.

I have a couple of books for getting a guideline value of coins but every value depends on the grade of the coin. So I was wondering if someone would be able to explain what determines if a coin is Ef or F etc...... and is it really easy to make that decision?


I have heard mixed reviews about this, but is it worth cleaning some coins up to make them look better. By this I mean things like silver coins, is it worth giving them a once over with some silver polish etc?

Also, (Last thing I promise!), when you see a coin that says mint condition or uncirculated, then that’s the coins usually still in the presentation folder etc?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Hairytoe,

Grading, depending on the coin, is opinionated, everyone has their own take on F, VF, EF etc...
For a take on grading look here: http://wybrit.com/info/Grading.html


I would say NEVER polish a coin, you are only lowering its grade as you are adding wear to the coin! If the coin was just a cheap, decorative one then it doesn't matter if you polish it but it will decrease in value and grade.

FDC = Fleur de Coin, this is proofs or coins in folders.

UNC can mean no wear.

Email me at Clive@HistoricCoinage.com if you have any further questions.

Cheers,

Clive.

I agree with Clive don't clean a coin. If you feel it needs cleaned then take it to a professional.

Hello,

Thank you for the information, I think I will just make sure i package the coins in a way that keeps them from getting damaged etc.

I've got a section on coin grading on my website which you might find interesting:

http://www.coinsgb.com/Grading.html

I also agree with Clive and Moneydog "don't clean a coin. If you feel it needs cleaned then take it to a professional."

Some museums may be able to advise on cleaning (preseving) a coin if it really must be done and NCS http://www.ncscoin.com/ offer conservation service in the US (but they can't conserve every coin).