Grading Question

CThomas

I'm new to grading. Could someone point me in the right direction on finding information on how to grade. I have also read many post where members said that they have or were going to attend some sort of grading class could you also fill me in on that.

Thank you in advance

Chris

coppercoins

The best thing to do to understand the basics of the process is to get the ANA Grading Guide (available at most general bookstores) and read the ENTIRE book from cover to cover. Much of the small print in the front of the book (before the pictures start) is some of the best information I have ever read on the subject.

The second recommendation is to find and purchase the Official Guide to Coin Grading and Counterfeit Detection by PCGS. While the standards between PCGS and the ANA differ in slight shades, they are very similar, and the two books together along with a lot of experience looking at and grading coins will go a very long way toward making you a good grader.

The classes you refer to are ANA seminar courses offered in the summer at their headquarters in Colorado Springs. I do believe the course is offered on a correspondence basis to members as well.

Draco

A really good source is right here! Simply post good scans/pics of your coins and let those that collect them give you opinions. I have learned a lot from the fantastic group of people on this board and I hope to become good enough one day to give serious opinions of my own.

CThomas

Thanks for the info!

Geoman

Charles,

Email sent regarding PCGS book.

-Geoman

Cam40

Its a combo of reading the right material,( those books just mentioned) and doing hands-on study.
Looking at what grades look like what from the posted images will help some too.But its all about just
studying coins in hand and refering to your books about the true condition of a coin.
Learn the Sheldon scale and your can grade about any coin within a few ponits.Each series has its own sort of standards also.Thats when it gets tricky.
Welcome Good luck and Enjoy

nwcs

Grading is a bit of an art as much as it is a process. Our own coinguy had a thread about grading earlier with some good information. I'll dig up the links for you.

Coinguy link #1
Coinguy link #2

Also, the ANA has a class on grading (beginning and advanced) that will take you to a new level. They also have a video for sale that gives good information and helps round out what you read in the books. The ana is at this site.

Neil