Example Of AU 2001 Or 2005 Coin

Here is a good place to start:

http://www.pcgs.com/photograde/


and to CCF!

AU-50
Sharp legends and illustrations show only a trace of wear on the highest points. There must be some remaining mint luster.
http://www.coinsandcanada.com/coins...eth-II&id=16

Unless you have something very unique, a 2001 or 2005 AU coin fresh out of circulation isn't old enough to be worth more than face value. But in answer, I'd say that learning to grade in general, I found that true face-to-face comparisons with good magnification worked best for me. You should be able to pick up a noncirculated coin of your denomination (comparing coins of same size is very helpful) in either of these years, for a cheap price. Then by careful examination you will notice the high points and where traces of wear begin to show.