NGC Coin Grading Scale. NGC uses the internationally accepted Sheldon grading scale of 1 to 70, which was first used in the United States in the late 1940s. This scale was adopted by NGC when it began operations in 1987 and is considered to be the industry standard.

NGC grades US and world coins, tokens and medals according to the internationally recognized Sheldon scale of 1 to 70. Certain coins, tokens and medals are ineligible for numeric grading due to a surface problem (such as scratches, cleaning or damage).

The coin grading scale utilized by NGC is the one universally accepted within the numismatic community. The following table lists the adjectival and numeric grades:

Each entry featured a different type of United States coin, and Dave shared with readers his insights into the technical and aesthetic qualities that defined it, while also providing helpful tips to guide collectors in selecting examples which best represented that particular design.

Oct 13, 2020 · NGC assigns a + to coins at the high end of their assigned grade, approaching the quality requirements for the next grade. On the other hand, NGC assigns its trademarked Star (★) Designation to coins with exceptional eye appeal for their assigned grade.

Coin Grading Scale See the full list of grades, descriptions and modifiers used by NGC to consistently and accurately evaluate a coin’s condition. Learn more

A coin’s grade is a simple yet highly accurate way to convey its condition and appearance. NGC grades problem-free US and world coins on an internationally recognized scale of 1 to 70. Coins certified by NGC are guaranteed not to be overgraded.

Before the advent of the Sheldon Grading Scale of 1 to 70, adjectival grades such as “Good,” “Fine” and “Uncirculated” were used to describe a coin’s condition. In the late 1940s, Dr. William Sheldon assigned numeric grades to commonly used adjectival grades to enhance their precision.

The NGC coin certification and grading process involves several steps, including receiving, grading, encapsulation and shipping. We invite you to read the sections that follow, or watch a video overview of your coin's journey through NGC.

Coexisting with NGC's industry-standard 70-point grading scale, NGCX makes it easier than ever for collectors of comics, TCGs, sports cards and other collectibles graded on a 10-point scale to expand their interest to coins.