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The
physical characteristics of a note play an important part
in determining its collectible appeal and value. Aside from
those scarce or rare notes whose limited availability makes
them desirable in almost any grade, there are many notes that
have no additional monetary worth beyond their face value
in ordinary circulated condition. However, those same notes
may command a premium in the highest circulated grades and
in Uncirculated condition.
Only
advanced collectors and paper money professionals have the
necessary training and experience to accurately and consistently
grade the condition of paper currency. The following grading
definitions and photos are presented as a guide only.
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CRISP UNCIRCULATED
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A note that has not
been released into circulation and is in the same condition
as it was first produced. The paper must be firm and crisp,
without any creases, folds or tears, and the corners must
be sharp and square. |
ABOUT UNCIRCULATED
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A note that at first
glance might appear as Uncirculated, but closer examination
discloses the slightest signs of handling, some minor corner
folds, a light (not hard) crease, a slight finger smudge or
some pinholes. Paper is still crisp and bright and has original
sheen. |
EXTRA FINE
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Paper is clean and
bright with original sheen. Light handling is apparent, with
several light folds or one strong crease visible. Tears and
stains are not present.
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VERY
FINE
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Still
an attractive note, but with more pronounced wear from handling,
though some crispness remains. May have several vertical
and horizontal folds as well as slight dirt or smudging
visible. No tears on the edges, though the corners aren’t
as sharp as Uncirculated.
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FINE
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Considerable circulation
is apparent, with creases, folds and wrinkles visible, and
most, if not all, of the crispness is gone. Edges show evidence
of circulation, and there may be slight tears. Some fading
of color noticeable, with some staining possible. |
VERY GOOD
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An obviously well-circulated
bank note with much creasing, folding and wrinkling noticeable.
Note may be dirty, and corners may show much wear and rounding,
and some tears may be present, though no pieces of the note
should be missing. |
GOOD
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A
heavily circulated note with characteristics similar to
Very Good except with more pronounced soiling and considerable
wear and tear. Corners of the note may also be missing.
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