Grading Policy

Grading Policy

Unless otherwise noted, only choice, excellent specimens are offered.

Where condition is noted, standard grading may be employed, viz.:

Proof
Uncirculated (UNC)
About Uncirculated (AU)
Extremely Fine (XF)
Very Fine (VF)
Fine (F)
Very Good (VG)
Good (G)
Fair
Poor

Our grading system is derived from grading standards for United States coins established by the American Numismatic Association. We have opted for this system in favor of one based on less precise vernacular grading terms, which can be open to wide interpretation. Moreover, we strive for consistency in grading; if two items are graded alike, it may be assumed they are in like or very similar condition.

That said, all grading is subjective. Our grading methodology is based on years of experience in the trade, but we make no claims of scientific accuracy, and recognize that no two individual graders see the same specimen the same way. Our grading is for the purpose of facilitating transactions with our customers, and otherwise carries no weight in the marketplace or outside the Legacy Americana organization.

Only specimens we consider in pristine, untouched condition, with no apparent wear or fatigue, are graded AU or UNC. Unless described as AU or UNC, it should be assumed that specimens show at least minimal wear or fatigue. Generally speaking, a specimen graded XF is a superior specimen, in choice, excellent condition, with minimal wear or fatigue. A specimen graded VF is in choice, very fine condition, with minor but noticeable wear or fatigue. A specimen graded F is in fine condition, with general wear or fatigue. Specimens graded VG or G are in good condition, but may have extensive wear or fatigue. Specimens graded Fair or Poor, the lowest grades assigned, are inferior specimens, with significant wear or fatigue.

To the extent possible, given limitations of supply, only choice, above average specimens are offered. Where no grade is assigned, or in the case of General Catalog items (example shown), the customer may assume the specimen offered will grade VF or better unless otherwise noted. This reflects a physical condition acceptable to most collectors.

When inventoried by Legacy Americana, all items are given a preliminary inspection for damage, before being approved for sale. Material damage, flaws or defects (distinguished from normal wear and fatigue) are described to the best of our ability. As a general policy, items found to have significant damage or flaws will be culled from the inventory and will not be offered through our catalogs or auctions. When a damaged item is offered, it is usually because of its uniqueness or rarity, or because a specimen in better condition is very difficult or impossible to find. Items cataloged as part of an auction or featured in the online store are carefully inspected for damage, and we will note any flaws or defects in the sales description, in addition to assigning a grade.

When multiple specimens are available, our policy is to sell the best ones first. We fill orders as though the customer were looking over our shoulder. Nevertheless, our inventory is constantly in flux and new material arrives at our warehouse daily. If the specimen received is in unacceptable condition, a replacement in better condition may be available, and may be offered in lieu of a refund.

Customers who desire specimens in pristine condition should make this requirement known prior to purchase. We make an effort to accommodate unusually discriminating buyers, but no customer shall have exclusive access to the best specimens. Further, this requirement may prevent us from filling some orders. Many of the items we sell are of considerable age and were not always well taken care of by their previous owners. Minor, natural evidence of age should be expected, and acceptable even to the most condition-conscious collector.

Last modified March 1, 2007.

Customer Service: 1-800-675-5838