Stupid question about coin grading

adamlaneus

Why aren't the obverse and reverse of coins graded separately?

I see that some folks on this forum, when asked to rate a coin, will rate the obverse and reverse separately case there are significant differences, then provide an average.

I understand that most coins follow a typical wear pattern, but aren't there some that justify a more detailed rating?

MidLifeCrisis

A single averaged grade is more efficient for the market...easier to sell.

Note, the grade is usually 60/40 or better in favor of the coin's obverse.

sweetwilliet

Not a stupid question at all. ANACS used to do it, and there are a few of their old slabs still around with both sides graded separately. In general, the lower graded side limits the grade to what it is, unless there is a large difference between the two, you might get more or less an average between the two. Just think, what would happen to the registry if both sides were graded?

yellowjacket

Grading doesn't usually become important until it's time to sell. Then it is used to price the coin. You can use split grades or weight it side over the other. The bottom line is what do you and the buyer/seller agree to value the coin for a transaction.

I do remember old Steve Ivy catalogs from the 1980's when they would grade coins MS 63/60, etc. This meant the obverse was 63 and the reverse was a 60.

TPG grading IS important when applied to registry sets.

Garrow

Colquhoun

I miss the old 63/60 split grades, and I really miss the what was it.. 4 or 5 grade categories that used to be on the old ANACS certifactes. I liked seeing how they got to their final grade and comparing it to how my mind gotten there.

Aegis3

<< <i>Why aren't the obverse and reverse of coins graded separately? >>



Two possible answers

(a) Sometimes, they are graded separately, because that's the best (and maybe even the only accurate) way to describe a coin.

(b) They are not graded separately because slab companies do not, in fact, grade, but instead price disguised as a grade.

PerryHall

<< <i>Not a stupid question at all. ANACS used to do it, and there are a few of their old slabs still around with both sides graded separately. >>



Only their certificates showed two grades---their slabs only showed one grade.