MS-64 is a grade given to uncirculated coins that display minor imperfections, which can make it a desirable grade for investors and numismatists.
In the Sheldon grading scale, an MS-64 grade represents the middle ground of what to expect from an uncirculated, near-mint state coin.
MS-64 coins will have an average or slightly better than average strike. While coins in this grade may present hairlines and scattered marks, none should be severe like in the case of scruffy coins.
These coins have sharp details in the design, highly reflective surfaces, and minimal signs of wear.
Every coin has a story to tell. The Sheldon grading system provides a means of communicating the condition that a coin is in.
The MS in MS-64 means ‘mint state,’ which indicates that the coin has not been circulated or used in commerce. In relative terms, an MS-64 coin is one that fell short of the MS-65 grade in terms of overall quality.
What Determines Whether a Coin Receives an MS-64 Grade?
There are several criteria a coin must meet to be eligible for an MS-64 grade.
- Strike. Strike is a term used to describe the details of the coin’s design and how well the details were struck.
- Luster. The luster of a coin refers to its original mint shine and reflectivity.
- Surface Quality. Surface quality is one of the key factors considered in grading a coin.
- Preservation. Preservation is the degree to which the coin’s mint state has been preserved.
The PCGS Perspective on MS-64 Grades
Professional Coin Grading Services (PCGS) is one of two premier coin grading organizations worldwide.
For a coin to receive an MS-64 grade from the Professional Coin Grading Organization (PCGS), it should:
- Possess an average or preferably a better than average strike.
- Luster should be at least average for the issue, but full mint luster is not required.
- Bag marks may be present on the surface of the coin, and some may be heavy.
Bag marks are surface marks on a coin that occur as the coin collides with other coins in a mint bag. They are usually present as minor nicks on a coin’s surface.
To illustrate the PCGS standards, let us examine the 1909-S VDB Lincoln cent. A PCGS-graded MS-64 specimen of this iconic coin would boast an unmarred surface, a sharp strike with fully defined wheat ears on the reverse, and a beautiful luster.
The NGC Perspective on MS-64 Grades
The National Guarantee Company (NGC) is another globally leading coin grading organization.
For a coin to receive an MS-64 grade from NGC, it:
- Should have at least an average strike for the coin type.
- Should have at least an average luster for the type.
- May have several small contact marks.
- May have one or two moderately heavy marks.
To demonstrate NGC standards, consider an MS-64 Morgan Silver Dollar. An MS-64 graded Morgan Dollar from NGC would exhibit a brilliant cartwheel luster, sharp details on the obverse and reverse, and only minor surface imperfections that do not detract from its overall beauty.
Why Buy MS-64 Coins?
Coins with an MS-64 grade may make great investments and additions to numismatic collections.
They do not carry the premium of a more expensive MS-69 or MS-70 coin. They are not at the bottom of the Uncirculated grade, so they exhibit better eye appeal and overall quality than that of an MS-60 coin.
MS-64 coins are a true middle ground in the Uncirculated grade while holding the same gold content as higher grades.
