Understanding Coin Certification Grades: What "MS62" Really Means

Upon seeing a coin marked as MS62 you might think it just means it is in good condition but there is much more to it than that. "MS" denotes 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. This scale ranges from 1 to 70 with 70 being a perfect coin and 1 being barely identifiable.



MS62 sits at the bottom tier of the Mint State category. It still has no signs of wear from handling but it does show noticeable imperfections. Common flaws include minor abrasions from coin-to-coin contact or minting friction.



There may also be some minor 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. All design features are present and legible 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. MS62 specimens are widely available 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.



It is important to remember that grading is not always exact. The same coin may receive varying grades from different experts. That is why many collectors rely on third party grading services like PCGS which encapsulate the coin in a protective holder with the grade clearly labeled. This gives buyers confidence that the grade is consistent and reliable.



Before acquiring or disposing of an MS62 specimen make sure you understand what you are getting. It is not a flawless coin but it is still a genuine mint issue with no circulation wear. For アンティークコイン投資 budget-conscious collectors, this offers a practical compromise.



Knowing the true implications of MS62 empowers your choices whether you are building a collection or just starting out in numismatics.