Grading Criteria

QA✓ views coins in 4 categories -

Superlative Coins

These coins comprise less than 1% of all coins. They are exceptional in one or more of the following ways:

Color – Coins that exhibit exceptional iridescent rainbow colors that are top tier for the coin type. Silver and Copper tone much easier than Clad, so a top tier toned clad coin, may not have the same top tier color as a Silver or Copper coin. Typically Gold and Platinum do not tone.

Cameo Contrast – For many modern cameo proofs, the level of cameo contrast can vary significantly, particularly on coins minted prior to 1978. For a coin to fall into this category, the contrast must be in the top 1% of similar coins of the same date. The coin must also be evenly matched (or very close) from obverse to reverse.

Strike/Luster - Many modern coins are always well struck with superb luster. Those coins will never fall into this category. Coins that typically are not fully struck or lack superior luster but which are fully struck or have superior luster can fall into this category.

QA✓ will sticker these coins with the very selective Gold Sticker.

Solid Quality Coins

These are coins that have no obvious issues for the assigned grade. QA✓ will sticker solid quality coins with the Platinum Sticker. Factors that would preclude a coin from receiving the QA✓ sticker include carbon spots, unattractive toning, fingerprints, below average strike for the coin type, and similar issues.

Accurately Graded Coins

These are coins that are accurately graded but are not viewed as solid for the grade. Problems described above may be present along with other potentially distracting marks. Coins that fall in this category will not receive a QA✓ sticker.

Below Average Coins

These are coins that are over graded or have particularly egregious problems for the assigned grades. In many cases, coins have developed problems after the coins were graded, due to improper storage or other environmental factors, fall into this category. QA✓ will not sticker coins that fall in this category.