Page 18 - Delcampe Collections classiques EN-007

Coins

An accurate description

of condition

By Franck Perrin of the ADAN

The condition of a coin is one of the key factors in determining its value. That
said, what do the various acronyms mean (UNC, MS, XF, VF and so on), which
are sometimes incomprehensible to a new collector? Is a currency advertised
as mint state really so? So many questions need to be asked when considering
whether to purchase a coin. This article will give you the keys to understanding
the various conditions of coins, with a particular focus on the Oscar Roty Se-
meuse type.

Uncirculated 70 (UNC 70)
A coin in perfect condition where
no flaws can be seen even when
magnified tenfold. The minting
frost is perfect even at the highest
points, and the quality of the upset
and strike is optimal. Unfortunately,
no mint state has yet been found
for this coin. The coin presented is
the closest thing to it.

Uncirculated 65 (UNC 65)

The coin is strictly in mint condition,
but small bumps caused by hand-
ling in the mint or in the banking cir-
cuit can be seen with a magnifying
glass when magnified tenfold. The
minting frost is intact, even at the
highest points, and the quality of
the upset and strike is good, but no-
thing more.

18 Delcampe Magazine