Designations for Coin Grades

Some coins are given a designation as a part of their grade. These designations can have a dramatic effect on a coin’s value.

Here are some of the more prominent designations:

• Copper coins: Color
• Mercury dimes: Full Split Bands
• Franklin half dollars: Full Bell Lines
• Standing Liberty Quarters: Full Head
• Mint State coins: Proof Like, Deep Mirror Proof Like
• Proof coins: Cameo, Deep Cameo

Copper Coins: Color

When a copper coins leaves the mint, it is a bright orange color. Exposure to air causes it to change gradually to brown. Humidity accelerates the color change

Mercury Dimes: Full Split Bands

The term “Full split bands” designates that the coin was struck well, and thereby has more detail than usual. Because the center of the reverse is the most difficult part of the coin to strike well, when the bands there are split the coin is awarded a Full Split Band designation.

Franklin Halves: Full Bell Lines

Another designation for a strong strike with superior detail is “Full Bell Lines”. This designation is awarded when the lines on the lower part of the bell are complete.

Standing Liberty Quarter: Full Head

This is another designation based on the quality of the strike. The “Full Head” designation requires strong details in Liberty’s hair and brow.

Proof Like and Deep Mirror Proof Like

Mint State coins can be given a “Proof Like” designation when they have a mirrored surface similar to proof coins. Proof Like (PL) coins reflect clearly from 2 to 4 inches on both sides. Deep Mirror Proof Like (DMPL) coins reflect clearly from more than 4 inches on both sides.

Cameo and Deep Cameo Proofs

When proof coins are struck under intense pressure, “frosty” white raised surfaces (Cameo) can result. When this effect is “dramatic”, it is designated “Deep Cameo”.

Value of Designations

Here are some examples of how designations can affect the value of a coin.

Conclusion

We have reviewed some of the more popular designations. It is possible for coins to have more than one designation, for example “Full Bell Lines” and “Proof Like”.

Whether you’re buying or selling it is beneficial to be familiar with designations since they do influence the value of coins.