Introduction
At Luxe Numis, we utilize the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) for authenticating and grading our coins. To provide transparency and clarity, we want to share insights into the NGC grading process and practices, particularly for ancient coins. NGC, based in Sarasota, Florida, has been a respected authority in the numismatic world since 1987. Their rigorous grading standards ensure that collectors receive accurate and consistent evaluations, making them a preferred choice for merchants and collectors alike. This article delves into NGC grading ancient coins and the process, grades, special designations, and more.
The NGC Grading Process
The grading process begins when a merchant or collector submits coins to NGC. Each coin undergoes a thorough examination by multiple experts who assess its authenticity and grade it based on condition. The process involves detailed scrutiny under high magnification, testing for authenticity, and reviewing historical data. NGC’s grading team includes numismatists with extensive experience, ensuring a reliable and consistent evaluation.
NGC has been a trusted authority in the numismatic community for over three decades, establishing a reputation for accuracy and integrity. The company’s state-of-the-art facility in Sarasota is equipped with advanced technology, allowing for precise measurements and analysis. The grading process typically takes several weeks, depending on the service level chosen by the submitter. Standard grading can take longer, while expedited services are available for an additional fee.
NGC Grades and Types for Ancient Coins
NGC uses a modified version of the Sheldon scale for ancient coins, ranging from 1 to 70. Here’s a breakdown of the main grade categories:
- Poor (PO): Heavily worn coins with minimal detail.
- Fair (FR): Slightly better than Poor, with slightly more detail visible.
- Good (G): Coins with significant wear, but major details are discernible.
- Very Good (VG): Coins with moderate wear, retaining some finer details.
- Fine (F): More detailed than VG, with moderate to significant wear.
- Very Fine (VF): Coins showing moderate wear, with major details visible and some minor details clear.
- Extremely Fine (XF): Coins with light wear, retaining much of the original detail.
- About Uncirculated (AU): Coins with minimal wear, retaining significant luster and detail.
- Mint State (MS): Uncirculated coins with no wear. The MS grades range from 60 to 70, with MS 70 being perfect.
- Choice (Ch): Indicates a coin with exceptional quality for its grade, often near the top of its category (ie, “Ch VF”, “Ch AU”, etc.).
- Gem: Denotes a coin of superior quality, typically in the MS range, often with exceptional eye appeal.
Special NGC Designations for Ancient Coins
NGC provides special designations for coins with unique attributes:
- Fine Style: Indicates exceptional artistic quality and detailed engraving.
- Starred (⭐): Denotes exceptional eye appeal, often for coins with exceptional toning or luster.
- Attribution: Paid designations that provide additional historical or provenance information, enhancing the coin’s appeal and value.
These designations can significantly impact a coin’s value and desirability in the market.
NGC Strike and Surface Grading
NGC grades ancient coins based on two main factors:
- Strike: Refers to the quality of the coin’s impression during minting. A well-struck coin will have sharp, well-defined details, while a poorly struck coin may have weak or incomplete features.
- Surface: Assesses the condition of the coin’s surface, including its luster, marks, and any corrosion or other imperfections. A coin with a well-preserved surface will receive a higher grade.
These evaluations provide a comprehensive understanding of a coin’s condition and help determine its market value.
Differences in NGC Labels
NGC labels include essential information about each coin, such as its grade, designation, and additional details like weight and strike. The information displayed can vary based on the service tier and type of coin. For example, standard submissions may only show the grade, while higher-tier submissions can include weight, strike, and other specific attributes.
NGC’s label designs have evolved over time, reflecting changes in grading practices and the numismatic market. Older labels may have different designs and styles, providing insight into the coin’s grading history.
Types of Ancient Coins NGC Grades
NGC grades a wide range of ancient coins, including:
- Greek Coins: From various Greek city-states and regions.
- Roman Coins: Covering the Republic, Empire, and other Roman coinage.
- Byzantine Coins: Including gold, electrum, and silver scyphate (cup-shaped) coins.
- Celtic Coins: From various Celtic groups.
- Dark Age Coins: Including select coins from the Migration Period, Axumite coins, and others.
- Eastern Coins: From regions such as Persia, Mesopotamia, Parthia, and Bactria.
Coins that are unstable, altered, or cast are generally ineligible for grading. Additionally, NGC does not grade coins from certain regions, such as ancient India, except for specific series like the ‘Soter Megas’ bronze coinage.
Conclusion
NGC’s grading system provides a reliable and standardized method for evaluating coins, making it easier for collectors and investors to understand a coin’s value. From detailed grades to special designations and label differences, NGC offers a comprehensive evaluation process that has been trusted for decades. Understanding these aspects can help collectors make informed decisions and appreciate the nuances of numismatic collecting. Don’t forget to browse the Luxe Numis Shop for beautiful coins graded by NGC!
References
For more detailed information about NGC grading practices and the types of ancient coins they grade, please refer to the following resources:
These articles provide comprehensive insights into the grading process, special designations, and the types of coins eligible for grading by NGC.