One of the most important aspects of coin collecting is understanding the grading system used to evaluate the condition of coins. Two of the most commonly used terms in coin grading are “AU”, About Uncirculated, and “BU”, Brilliant Uncirculated. These terms are used to describe the condition of an “MS”, mint state, coin and can have a significant impact on the coin’s value.
While BU was once widely used, it has mostly been replaced by different MS grades using the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale. However, some still use BU to interchangeably describe a mint state or uncirculated coin – confusing!
Today, we will clear up any uncertainties surrounding the use of BU and AU within coin grading with the aim of answering the question “what does AU and BU mean in coins?”. We have also assembled a coin grading guide and some interesting background information.
Coin Collecting: Background
Coin collecting, or numismatics, is a fascinating hobby that attracts people of all ages from all walks of life. The history of coin collecting dates back to ancient times when people would collect coins as a way to display their wealth and status. Today, coin collecting is a popular hobby that is enjoyed by millions of people around the world.
One of the most important aspects of coin collecting is understanding the grading system used to evaluate the condition of coins. Coins in the US are usually graded using the Sheldon Coin Grading Scale – a scale from 1 to 70, with 1 being the lowest grade and 70 being the highest grade. The grade of a coin is based on its overall condition, including its luster, strike, and surface condition.
Other coin grading scales may also use the terms AU and BU, such as the European Coin Grading System. However, while AU is commonly used, BU is not a reliably used term across coin grading systems and has mostly been phased out. It is important to understand the grading system being used when buying or selling coins, as different systems may have slightly different definitions for each grade.
The Difference Between AU And BU In Coin Collecting
So, what do the terms AU and BU mean in coin collecting? AU and BU are two terms in numismatics that describe the condition of a coin. AU stands for “about uncirculated,” while BU stands for “brilliant uncirculated.” These terms describe the level of wear on a coin and can have a significant impact on the coin’s value.
AU Coins
AU coins are coins that have been lightly circulated and have some wear, but still have a significant amount of their original luster and detail. These coins may have slight signs of wear on the high points of the design, such as the raised areas on the coin’s surface.
BU Coins
BU coins are coins that have never been circulated and are in perfect condition. These coins have a bright luster, sharp strike, and no signs of wear or damage. Nowadays, BU coins are often described as “mint state” and are highly sought after by collectors.
In general, BU coins are more valuable than AU coins because of their pristine condition. However, the value of a coin is also influenced by other factors, such as rarity, historical significance, and demand from collectors.
Coin Grading Guide
There are several different grading systems used in coin collecting, but the most widely used system is the Sheldon Scale, which grades coins on a scale from 1 to 70.
Coin Grading Chart
| Grade | Description |
| Poor (1-2) | A coin that is heavily worn and difficult to identify |
| Fair (3-4) | A coin that is heavily worn but can still be identified |
| About Good (AG-3) | A coin that is heavily worn but has some visible design details |
| Good (G-4) | A coin that is heavily worn but has all major design details visible |
| Very Good (VG-8) | A coin that has moderate wear but has most design details visible |
| Fine (F-12) | A coin that has moderate wear but still has all design details visible |
| Very Fine (VF-20) | A coin that has light wear but still has all design details visible and sharp |
| Extremely Fine (EF-40) | A coin that has very light wear and has all design details sharp and well defined |
| About Uncirculated (AU-50) | A coin that has very little wear and has most design details sharp and well defined |
| Mint State (MS-60 to MS-70) | A coin that has no wear and has all design details sharp and well defined. |
The grading process takes into account several factors, including wear, luster, surface marks, and overall appearance. Coins that are in excellent condition are more valuable than those that are heavily worn. Official grading and certification is performed by numismatic authorities like the Professional Coin Grading Services (PCGS) and the American Numismatic Association (ANA).
Where does BU fit into the Sheldon Scale?
In Sheldon Scale, BU falls under the Mint State category. This category is further divided into different grades based on the amount of luster, surface quality, and other factors. Let’s take a closer look…
- MS-60: Uncirculated (UNC) – A coin with no trace of wear but may have some distracting contact marks or other minor flaws that affect the surface quality or luster.
- MS-61: Choice UNC – A coin with no trace of wear but may have a few minor hairlines or contact marks that do not detract from the overall appearance.
- MS-62: Select UNC – A coin with no trace of wear but may have more noticeable hairlines, contact marks, or other minor flaws that affect the surface quality or luster.
- MS-63: Uncirculated (UNC) – A coin with no trace of wear but may have some scattered hairlines or contact marks that do not detract from the overall appearance.
- MS-64: Choice UNC – A coin with no trace of wear and only a few scattered hairlines or contact marks that do not detract from the overall appearance.
- MS-65: Gem UNC – A coin with no trace of wear and only a few tiny, scattered marks or hairlines that are visible only under magnification.
- MS-66: Superb Gem UNC – A coin with no trace of wear and only a few microscopic marks or hairlines that are visible only under magnification.
- MS-67: Near-perfect – A coin with no trace of wear and only one or two microscopic marks or hairlines that are visible only under magnification.
- MS-68: Near-perfect – A coin with no trace of wear and no visible marks or hairlines, even under magnification.
- MS-69: Perfect – A coin with no trace of wear and no visible marks or hairlines, even under magnification, with nearly perfect luster and surface quality.
- MS-70: Perfect – A coin with no trace of wear and no visible marks or hairlines, even under magnification, with perfect luster and surface quality.
More information can be found here!
FAQs
What is the difference between AU and UNC coins?
AU (about uncirculated) coins have some wear, but still retain a significant amount of their original luster and detail, while UNC (uncirculated) coins have never been circulated and are in perfect condition.
How do I know if my coin is AU or BU?
The condition of a coin can be evaluated by a professional coin grader or through self-education. Look for signs of wear, such as loss of luster or flattened details, to determine if a coin is AU or BU.
Why are BU coins more valuable than AU coins?
BU coins are more valuable than AU coins because they are in pristine condition and have never been circulated.
Can AU coins still be valuable?
Yes, AU coins can still be valuable, especially if they are rare or have historical significance.
Should I invest in AU or BU coins?
The decision to invest in AU or BU coins depends on personal preference and/or investment goals. BU coins are generally considered to be more valuable, but AU coins can also be valuable and may be more affordable for some collectors.
