There seems to be alot of confusion on exactly how to grade uncleaned Roman coins. Many different sources will give the same coins many different grades. This guide will give just one standard on grading ancients.

Extra Fine (EF). An Extremely Fine ancient coin will have sharp details, and will only display light wear on the highest points of the coin. There may be luster evident, especially in protected areas, such as between letters in the inscriptions. Very few ancients are found in Extremely Fine condition.

Very Fine (VF). An ancient coin in Very Fine condition should have a full inscription, and all devices will be only moderately worn. A VF will usually have the most wear on the high points - hairlines cheekbones, dress folds, and headgear (if present). Most references on Roman coins indicate VF condition as the standard collectible grade, since Roman coins in VF are much more affordable than EFs, and much nicer looking than Fines.

Fine (F). An ancient coin in Fine condition should have a full or almost full inscription; some letters may be weak. Hairlines and other smaller details, such as headgear, dress folds, and facial features, will show significant flatness, although the major devices on the coin will be fully outlined

Very Good (VG). An ancient coin in Very Good condition will only have a partial inscription, and the letters which are visible may be weak. There should be enough detail on the coin to identify the main devices, denomination, and the reverse type

VG /Fair — where the obverse is a VG and the reverse a smooth Fair). Major details in the head, such as eyes, ears, nose, and mouth should be clear enough to show some details.

Good (G). You can see a portrait on the obverse and a person on the reverse. There are slight traces of letters but you cannot read them.

Fair (FR). If you can tell its a coin and not much else then it is in Fair condition. You can see a portrait on the Obverse and an animal on the reverse (probably a lion). There is not even a trace of any letters. This coin is a little better than some coins that would be rated Fair.

Ancient coins sold as “Premiums” should grade atleast Fine (F) or better

Thank you for reading my guide on ancient coin grading!

Jason
Xander Ancients