$2.5 Indian Head Gold Coins MS 62
Grade Definition
MS 62 is the contraction for the denotation "Mint State Grade 62", as defined on the Sheldon coin grading scale, developed in 1949 by Dr. William Herbert Sheldon. MS 62 coins are uncirculated (A condition specific to coins graded MS 60 or above) and will show significantly less wear and damage than an XF or "Extremely Fine" coin of the same type. Being that this low denomination coin did see use in the banking industry, the defects present in the coin may have occurred either at the U.S. Mint, or in the banker's vault.
Specifics of the Grade
On a $2 1/2 gold Indian coin graded MS 62, there may be discernible flaws from the U.S. Mint, such as a weaker strike, flaws in the metal, or perhaps "cracks" in the design transferred by a worn die used in the striking process. These are not cracks in the coin itself, but minute fissures in the die that created the coin are transferred onto the surface of the Indian coin. Also, the "Mint luster" or golden sheen of the coin may be a bit dull or sparse compared to higher grades of the same coin.
