For the last nine decades dating back to the 1940s, the Sheldon numeric scale has been used to certify the condition of historic circulation coins and modern bullion commemoratives. This 70-point scale is one that all modern collectors are familiar with, but it will now coexist alongside a 10-point scale from the NGC that is more familiar to collectors of a different variety. Starting in January 2023, NGCX coins will begin to appear with precious metals retailers.
What is NGCX?
NGCX is a new grading system from the NGC that introduces a 10-point scale for grading. The scale may consist of 10 grades on the surface, but it actually features a total of 29 grades. From 10 to 9, there is a .1 increment of decrease from a perfect 10 down to 9. From 9 to 8, there are three grading options, and starting at 8 and going down, there is a .5 drop between grades.
Why the Change?
The NGC is introducing this new grading scale to generate interest in collectible coinage among those who have other hobby collections. The 10-point scale is already commonly used in grading comic books, video games, and trading cards, among other hobby collectibles.
How Do the Scales Compare?
The grades in both scales are complementary to one another. For example, a grade of 10 on the NGCX scale represents a perfect coin with no post-production imperfections. This is the same as a 70 grade on the traditional scale. A 9.9 will correlate to the traditional 69 grade on the Sheldon scale, which represents a near-perfect coin.
What Coins Qualify?
With the new NGCX coin grading system, the NGC will certify all modern bullion coins produced from 1982 to present.
What is the Fate of the 70-Point System?
Even though a new system of grading is emerging at the NGC, that does mean the end of the Sheldon numerical scale that has been in use in coin grading since the 1940s. The NGC will continue to use both the NGCX grading scale and the existing Sheldon numerical scale.
Watch for New NGCX Coins in the Months Ahead
Starting in January 2023, the NGC will begin to release coins with grades from the new NGCX scale. If you have any questions, Provident Metals’ customer service is available to assist you. Please call us at 800-313-3315, chat with us live online, or email us directly. Remember to check our blog and follow us on social media for regular updates.
