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Is “numeric grading” destructive to the hobby?
RWB
Posts: 8,082 ✭
Is “numeric grading” destructive to the hobby?
The adoption of numeric grading – the association of a number from the Sheldon large cent world to other coin types – was initially promoted by ANA governor Virgil H. Since then, this system has expanded and become accepted by the hobby, even though it has a great many faults and fallacies.
Some of the difficulties include:
A. Non-linear scale – each “point” is not equal to another
B. Arbitrary point spreads within descriptive grades
C. Absence of accepted definition of each numeric moniker
D. Numeric bias where accuracy is implied but actually absent
E. Creation of phantom “grades” that did not previously exist (AU-53 or AU-55 for example)
F. Lack of repeatability
G. Application of discrete quantities to a continuum
As active modern day coin collectors what do you think?
The adoption of numeric grading – the association of a number from the Sheldon large cent world to other coin types – was initially promoted by ANA governor Virgil H. Since then, this system has expanded and become accepted by the hobby, even though it has a great many faults and fallacies.
Some of the difficulties include:
A. Non-linear scale – each “point” is not equal to another
B. Arbitrary point spreads within descriptive grades
C. Absence of accepted definition of each numeric moniker
D. Numeric bias where accuracy is implied but actually absent
E. Creation of phantom “grades” that did not previously exist (AU-53 or AU-55 for example)
F. Lack of repeatability
G. Application of discrete quantities to a continuum
As active modern day coin collectors what do you think?
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Doggedly collecting coins of the Central American Republic.
Visit the Society of US Pattern Collectors at USPatterns.com.
F. Lack of repeatability
Does anybody really think that grading would be more easily repeatable if a numerical system was not used? Any grading system can be "destructive" if applied based on erroneous assumptions regarding the way the system is intended to operate.
In truth, numerical TPG has made the hobby more friendly to the collector. While it
is not perfect it is much better then what has gone before.
Camelot
any more than I understand references to "the economy" or "the environment" as if it was one uniform thing.
so, in answer, IMO numeric grading is a tool that is variously well-used or much abused, and everyting in between, in different situations.
as are a number of measurements of money supply, inflation, pollution, or temperature..
depending on who you ask and what they want you to think
Liberty: Parent of Science & Industry
https://acoinshop.com/ —-> https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
1. Learn how to spot coins that are PQ for the grade
2. Better yet, learn how to grade ,to a reasonable degree,
on the coin series you collect.
3. Develop a trusted circle of dealers that are fair, reasonable
honorable and with whom you can develop a good relationship
4. Never buy expensive coins at auction without having
professional dealer you trust check it out for you.
5.If you frequent our excellent B/S/T, learn who the long term honorable
collectors are. These fine folks will always do what ever it takes to make you happy.
6. On E-Bay, I tend to return frequently, to dealers who deliver what they promise
time after time.These are the people that give good, pleasant service and stand behind
every coin that they sell.
7. Always question why valuable coins are not in a reputable slab.
8. If you have a question about a coin, never be afraid to ask it of the Forum Members. Post a
picture and ask your question. While it is difficult to grade a coin from a picture, our astute
members can often pick out clues to a damaged or doctored coin. They also have a pretty good
idea as to coin values in most grades.
Camelot
Camelot
https://acoinshop.com/ —-> https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
<< <i>It may be destructive to the hobby but is very profitable to the business. >>
You took the words right out of my mouth.
Experience the World through Numismatics...it's more than you can imagine.
What is most destructive isn't the numerical gradek but the lack of interest in collecting coin even at WalMart prices.
https://acoinshop.com/ —-> https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
Worry is the interest you pay on a debt you may not owe.
"Paper money eventually returns to its intrinsic value---zero."----Voltaire
"Everything you say should be true, but not everything true should be said."----Voltaire
Leo
But rejoining the certification road may change once I get a better understanding of the stickers and pluses, depended upon the criterias and how they are used to boost the collector base.
The more qualities observed in a coin, the more desirable that coin becomes!
My Jefferson Nickel Collection