is the Mint really making $5 gold Eagles that much better lately?

Nooker

I was looking at the Population Reports for $5 gold Eagles (MS), and until the last 2 years (2009 & 2010; I still can't see 2011 coins), MS70 coins have vastly smaller numbers than MS69 (1/10th or 1/20th the population in many cases).

But in 2009 and 2010, the MS70 coins have shot thru the roof, and now THEY are 5 times more populous than the MS69 coins.

Is PCGS grading standards "adjusting", or is the mint just making a better product lately?

I would think this would put 2009 & 2010 (& 2011?) $5 AGE's MS70 coins not have the same prices as the previous years, but alas the Price Guide says they are about the same (looking at non-W coins)

thoughts??

Mark

derryb

Handling after minting is a big factor.

jom

<< <i>Handling after minting is a big factor. >>



So is employee turnover in the grading room.

jom

ShinyThingsInPM

Also collectors grading skills improved and people don't submit obvious junk (including myself

CaptHenway

Are the total numbers graded way up as well?

Has the number of 70's as a percentage of the total number of coins of that year graded significantly increased?

kiyote

Not all of them-- the Medal of Honor gold coins had a lot of luster breaks that kept them out of 70 status.