Technical Grading Question

[Android]

From a technical grading perspective, how many contact marks are allowed on an NGC graded MS67 coin? Conversely, if a coin has a superior strike and eye appeal for the date, can an NGC graded MS67 coin have numerous contact marks in the focal areas and still get the grade?

 

Thanks,

 

Andy

[RMontgomery]

Andy,

 

When looking at a mint state coin for the grade of 67, there are not actual numbers of contact marks that are "counted". NGC is instead interested in the overall preservation of the coin, the strike quality, minimal contact, and the eye appeal of the coin. Using the Morgan Dollar as an example, we would anticipate a coin with blazing, full, original mint luster; well struck, minimal contact, and with pleasing eye appeal. The marks that will be present upon the coin will not be distracting, not heavy, nor of great length. The marks that might be on this coin will tend to be away from the main focal points, although you could have some light contact on the cheek in this example. The key, however, is that the contact be minimal and not distracting to the eye.

 

You may encounter a coin of superior eye appeal that can allow for a few more contact marks, but keep in mind that the grade of 67 is one implying all positive factors in the first place, so the allowance of additional contact marks will be slight.

 

Rick