Understanding Coin Certification Grades: What "MS62" Really …

When you see a coin labeled MS62 you might think it just means it is in good condition but there is much more to it than that. The abbreviation "MS" refers to Mint State which tells you the coin was never used in circulation. It remained untouched since leaving the mint.

The "62" is assigned according to the Sheldon Grading System, which is a 70-point grading system used by professional coin graders to assess a coin's condition. The grading scale spans from 1 to 70 with 70 being a perfect coin and 1 being barely identifiable.

An MS62 coin occupies the lowest rung of the Mint State spectrum. It still has no signs of wear from handling but it does show noticeable imperfections. These might include small scratches from contact with other coins or the minting process itself.

Additional imperfections often consist of light bag marks, which are tiny dents or scrapes that happen when coins are stored in bags at the mint. The luster or shine of the coin may be dull in spots and the overall eye appeal is not strong. The details on the design are still fully visible but they might not be as sharp or crisp as on a higher graded coin.

MS62 coins commonly appear in vintage holdings or in bulk lots where the coins were not carefully handled. These coins are plentiful on the market but they are not considered high quality either. Newcomers to numismatics may select MS62 coins because it is more affordable than higher grades. But serious collectors or investors usually look for coins graded MS65 or above because those have better luster, fewer marks, and more visual appeal.

Grading outcomes are not universally consistent. The same coin may receive varying grades from different experts. That is why many collectors rely on third party grading services like NGC which encapsulate the coin in a protective holder with the grade clearly labeled. It ensures buyers trust the assigned grade.

If you are buying or selling a coin labeled MS62 make sure you understand アンティークコイン what you are getting. It is not a flawless coin but it is still a genuine mint issue with no circulation wear. For many people this is a reasonable balance between cost and condition.

Understanding what MS62 means helps you make smarter decisions whether you are building a collection or just starting out in numismatics.