Question On Grading.

Roman coins are seldom graded - people often say 'VF' but this is a very encompassing term due to the massive variations in roman coins.

So, most people say 'Good grade' or 'High grade'. Too many variables - strike, wear, centering, devices, etc.

I tend to grade silver to higher standard than bronze. Silver (just as in modern times) tended to be kept in reserve and was used for larger sized transactions. In the 3rd century high grade silver virtually disappeared. When it made its infrequent appearances people 'ratholed' it and thus it usually is in above average condition when found. Being buried in the ground or under the hearth (ancient equivalent of the sock drawer) silver coin is often found in large hoards of exceptional quality. Bronze on the other hand was used everyday and for everything. grading bronze is much more challenging and involves overall scarcity as well as the 'eye appeal'. Bronze coin was often produced to a lower quality standard too and so as in the cases of Carausius and Allectus the general average production quality need be considered. Bottom line I feel 'eye appeal' is the most important factor. If the coin is 'ugly' the details don't count as high as if the piece has a well centered strike, even wear, and good artistic standards of engraving.

Thank you ever so much for that help guys. Very helpful and interesting. I think at the moment I am probably better off letting someone else grade them for me until I have been round a few major coin fairs and got used to looking at top grade items all the way down to crud lol.
Found the link a very useful read!! Thank you again!