"PF70," "PR69," "MS70" — the letters and numbers on a graded coin's label tell you exactly what you are buying. Here is a plain-English guide.
The 1–70 scale
Coins are graded on the Sheldon scale from 1 (barely identifiable) to 70 (perfect). Modern coins straight from the mint usually grade between 65 and 70.
- 70: Perfect. No post-production imperfections visible under 5x magnification.
- 69: Nearly perfect, with one or two tiny flaws you would need magnification to find. Often a strong value compared with a 70.
- 65–68: Gem to superb gem, with minor marks or contact visible on close inspection.
The letters
- PF / PR (Proof): Struck with specially polished dies and planchets, usually more than once, giving mirror-like fields and frosted designs. NGC writes PF; PCGS writes PR.
- MS (Mint State): A regular business-strike coin that has never been in circulation.
- SP (Specimen): A special strike that falls between proof and mint state.
Other label terms
- Ultra Cameo / Deep Cameo: Strong contrast between frosted design and mirror fields, standard on most modern proofs.
- Early Releases / First Strike: Submitted for grading within 30 days of the coin's release.
- Reverse Proof: The finish is flipped — mirror design on frosted fields.
Is a 70 worth the premium?
A 70 is the top of the scale, so it carries the highest premium and is the easiest to resell to collectors. A 69 can look identical to the naked eye at a noticeably lower price. Choose based on whether you are collecting for the label or for the coin.
Shop PF70, PR70 and MS70 coins at Sierra Gold Exchange.