Virtual Shop
Support
 
World paper money formal conditions grading codes  

Every banknote listed into our world paper money price-lists is marked by a special code which means its formal conditions status. These codes are a standard worldwide and must respect some parameters that we list into the following table. Our price-lists show some of these codes with a + or - sign which indicate that the conditions of the banknote differ a little more or less than the assigned code. The grading codes are assigned by the owner of this web site and may differ from any other advice.
 
Grading codes table  
Grading code
Banknote formal conditions
UNC - Uncirculated A perfectly preserved note, never mishandled by the issuing authority, a bank teller, the public or a collector. The paper is clean and firm, without any evidence of discoloration. Corners are sharp and square, without any evidence of rounding. An uncirculated note will have its original sheen.
XF - Extremely Fine A very attractive note with light handling. May have a maximum of 3 light folds or one strong crease. Paper is clean and bright with original sheen. Corners may show only the slightest evidence of rounding. There may also be only the slightest sign of wear where a fold meets the edge.
VF - Very Fine An attractive note but with more evidence of handling and wear. May have folds both vertically and horizontally. Paper may have minimal dirt or possible colour smudging. Paper itself is still relatively crisp and not floppy. There are no tears in the border area, although the edges do show slight wear. Corners also show wear but not full rounding.
F - Fine A note which shows considerable circulation with many folds, creases and wrinkling. Paper is not excessively dirty but will have some softness. Edges may show much handling with minor tears in the border area. Tears may not extend into the design. There will be no center fold due to excessive folding. Overall appearance is still on the desirable side.
VG - Very Good A well used note, abused but still intact. Corners may have much rounding, nicks and tears may extend into the design, some discolouration may be present, staining may have occurred, and a small hole may be seen at center from excessive folding. Staple and pinholes are common and the note is quite limp but NO pieces of the note may be missing.
G - Good A well worn and heavily used note. Normal damage from prolonged circulation with holes, dirt, stains, tears, etc. possibly being present. No large pieces of the note may be missing. Graffiti is commonly seen on a note in Good condition.
Grading codes table.