I use EARLY AMERICAN COPPERS numerical grading. Unless otherwise noted, the coin is consistent for the grade and has no "surprises" when you receive it. The SHARPNESS GRADE indicates the amount of wear. The NET GRADE reflects any problems, which are described and are reflected in the price.
NUMERICAL GRADING
| 1 Basal State | 7 Very Good | 20 Very fine | 40 Extremely Fine | 60 Mint State |
| 2 Fair | 8 " | 25 " | 45 " | 63 " |
| 3 About Good | 10 " | 30 " | 50 About Unc. | 65 " |
| 4 Good | 12 Fine | 35 " | 55 " | 67 " |
| 5 " | 15 " | 58 " | 70 " | |
| 6 " |
In addition to the NET GRADE, the CONDITION of the coin also determines the price. I show CONDITION at the conclusion of my COMMENTS as follows:
| Symbol: | Explanation: | |
| C | Choice | A Superior Coin |
| A+ | Average + | Better than AVERAGE but not Choice |
| A | Average | An Average Coin |
| A- | Average - | Worse than AVERAGE but not SCUDZY |
| S | Scudzy | A Pretty awful Coin |