Understanding PCGS Plus Grades: What MS68+ Means for Your Collection

For serious numismatists, the pursuit of perfection is a driving force. While standard coin grading scales like the Sheldon scale (from Poor-1 to Mint State-70) provide a foundational understanding of a coin’s condition, the world of professional grading offers even greater nuance. Among the most significant advancements are the “Plus Grades” introduced by PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service).

If you’ve ever wondered why an MS68 coin might command a higher premium, or how an MS68+ differs from a regular MS68, this guide is for you. We’ll demystify the PCGS Plus Grade, with a particular focus on the coveted MS68+.

What is Professional Coin Grading?

Before diving into “Plus Grades,” it’s crucial to understand why professional third-party grading exists. Services like PCGS provide:

• Authentication: Verifying a coin is genuine.
• Condition Assessment: Assigning a universally recognised grade based on a coin’s strike, surface preservation, luster, and eye appeal.
• Encapsulation: Sealing the coin in a tamper-evident, sonically sealed holder to protect its graded condition.
• Population Reports: Tracking the number of coins submitted and graded at each level, providing data on rarity.

The Genesis of Plus Grades: Recognising Superiority Within a Grade

The Sheldon scale’s 70 points offer a broad spectrum, but sometimes, a coin just feels better than its assigned number. It might be superior in eye appeal, strike, or luster compared to others of the same grade, yet not quite qualify for the next numerical step.

Recognising this, PCGS introduced “Plus Grades” (e.g., MS64+, MS65+, MS66+, MS67+, MS68+) to acknowledge coins that exhibit exceptional qualities for their assigned numerical grade. These coins are strong candidates for the next higher grade, but for one or two minor reasons, they don’t quite make it. At Roman Brothers we offer a range of different grades,

Why the “Plus”? The Three Pillars of Exceptional Eye Appeal

A “Plus” designation is primarily awarded based on superior eye appeal. This isn’t just about a lack of flaws, but about the coin’s overall visual impact, which is influenced by:

1. Luster: How well the coin reflects light, showing its original mint brilliance. A “Plus” coin will often have vibrant, unbroken luster.
2. Strike: The sharpness and completeness of the coin’s design elements. A strong strike means all details are crisp and well-defined.
3. Colouration/Toning: For older coins, attractive and natural toning can significantly enhance eye appeal. For modern bullion, a pristine, untarnished surface is key.

A PCGS grader will assign a “Plus” when a coin clearly stands out from its peers within the same numerical grade due to these factors.

Deep Dive: What MS68+ Means for Your Collection

Now, let’s focus on the highly sought-after MS68+ (Mint State 68 Plus) grade.

• Mint State (MS): This prefix indicates a coin that has never been circulated and retains its original mint luster.
• 68: According to the Sheldon scale, an MS68 coin is “virtually flawless.” It will have only the most minute imperfections, which are typically invisible to the naked eye and can only be seen under 5x magnification. These might be a few faint contact marks or a very slight loss of luster in an inconspicuous area.
• + (Plus): This is where the magic happens. An MS68+ coin isn’t just “virtually flawless”; it possesses superior eye appeal for an MS68. This means it might have:
• More vibrant or full luster than other MS68 coins.
• A sharper, more complete strike on its design elements.
• Overall exceptional visual appeal that makes it aesthetically superior.

Why is MS68+ So Desirable?

1. Near-Perfection at a Premium: For many modern bullion issues or contemporary collectibles, an MS68+ is often the closest a coin will get to the ultimate MS70 “perfect” grade. It’s a significant leap in quality and rarity above a standard MS68, yet typically more attainable (and thus, less expensive) than an MS70.
2. Scarcity and Rarity: “Plus” grades are considerably rarer than their non-plus counterparts. PCGS only awards them to the very top percentage of coins within a given numerical grade. This scarcity drives demand and value.
3. Investment Potential: Coins with Plus Grades, particularly MS68+, often appreciate at a faster rate and retain their value more effectively than lower-graded examples. They are highly liquid in the market due to their certified quality and visual appeal.
4. Collector’s Pride: Owning an MS68+ coin means possessing a piece that stands out. It signifies a coin of extraordinary quality that truly approaches perfection.

Finding and Verifying Your MS68+ Coin

When considering an MS68+ coin for your collection:

• Check the PCGS Label: The grade will be clearly printed on the PCGS certification label within the slab.
• Verify Online: Use the unique certification number (Cert #) on the PCGS website (PCGS.com) to verify the coin’s details, including its grade, series, and importantly, its Population Report. This report will tell you how many coins of that specific type have been graded at MS68+ (and other grades), giving you insight into its true rarity.
• Buy from Reputable Dealers: Always purchase graded coins from established and trusted numismatic dealers like Roman Brothers, who understand the nuances of the grading system and stand behind the authenticity of their inventory.

Conclusion

PCGS Plus Grades offer a sophisticated layer of distinction within the professional coin grading system. An MS68+ designation signifies a truly exceptional coin – one that embodies near-perfect preservation, outstanding eye appeal, and a rarity that makes it a prized possession for any discerning collector.

For those looking to elevate their collection, acquire coins of superior quality, and make shrewd numismatic investments, understanding and seeking out PCGS Plus Grades is an essential step. They represent the apex of quality within a grade, offering a tangible connection to numismatic excellence.