When a certified coin bears a designation such as MS63, MS65, or MS70 , the letters MS stand for Mint State . This term identifies coins that show no wear from circulation and is one of the fundamental categories within numismatic classification.
However, Mint State does not necessarily mean that a coin is perfect. A piece may not have circulated and still show contact marks, minor abrasions, a weak strike, or other imperfections.
What is Mint State?
Mint State , abbreviated MS , is used to describe regularly minted coins that show no evidence of wear from circulation. Within the modern grading scale, Mint State comprises grades MS60 to MS70 . The number indicates the relative quality of the coin within this state.
For example, an MS60 coin and an MS67 share one essential characteristic: neither shows signs of circulation wear. However, there can be significant differences in the condition of their surfaces, luster, minting quality, and visual appeal.
In general terms, Mint State is also related to the term Uncirculated , or “not circulated”.
Mint State does not mean a perfect coin
An MS60 coin may exhibit numerous marks, abrasions, or hairlines , and even relatively weak strike. Even so, it can remain in the Mint State as long as it shows no signs of wear from circulation.
As the grade increases, imperfections usually decrease and the overall quality of the piece improves.
At the top end is MS70 , the highest grade within the Mint State, reserved for coins that meet extremely strict standards.
Therefore, an "uncirculated" coin is not necessarily a perfect coin.
What is valued in a Mint State coin?
Several fundamental factors are considered when classifying a coin as Mint State.
Strike: This assesses how well the die design was transferred to the coin. Weak strike should not be automatically confused with wear.
Luster: Mint luster is the characteristic shine produced during minting. Its preservation and the way it reflects light help to evaluate the surface.
Surface preservation: observe contact marks, abrasions, scratches and other imperfections, paying attention to their quantity, size, location and severity.
Visual appeal: Eye appeal represents the overall impression of the coin and can include aspects such as luster, coloration, and surface quality.
How to identify a Mint State coin?
The main point is to look for evidence of wear , especially on the higher areas of the design. When a coin is in circulation, these areas are usually the first to show signs of wear. The behavior of the luster can also be studied by tilting the coin under a light source.
However, not all markings indicate circulation. Coins can be damaged by impacts during manufacturing, transport, or storage. Similarly, a poorly defined design may be due to a weak striking strike and not necessarily wear. Correctly distinguishing these characteristics can require experience.
Mint State vs. About Uncirculated
The difference between AU58 and MS60 helps to understand the concept very well.
AU , or About Uncirculated , describes a coin that may retain virtually all of its luster and be in excellent condition, but shows a small amount of wear or friction from circulation. An MS60 coin, on the other hand, does not show this wear.
This means that an AU58 might look better than an MS60 . The MS60 could show numerous contact marks, while the AU58 retains more attractive surfaces. The decisive difference isn't which looks better, but whether there is any wear from use.
Mint State vs. Proof
Mint State should not be confused with Proof . Mint State applies to coins of the regular mintage format that remain unworn from circulation. Proof refers to a special manufacturing method primarily intended for collector coins, using a different preparation of the minting elements.
That's why there can be grades like MS70 for a Mint State coin and PR70 or PF70 for a Proof coin. The number may be the same, but they represent different categories.
What should a collector remember?
The basic idea is simple: Mint State identifies a coin that shows no wear from circulation . Once this condition is established, the MS60 to MS70 grades differentiate the quality of its surfaces, luster, minting, and visual appeal. An MS60 coin can have numerous marks and still be Mint State, while an AU58 coin may look better but fall outside this category due to a small amount of wear. Understanding this difference allows for the correct interpretation of certification labels and a much more accurate evaluation of a coin.
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