Proper Grading Remains a Matter of Human Judgment
Question: Would there be interest in the numismatic community for a coin grading system done by personal computer? The system would consist of a hardware card connected to a small vision platform where the coin would be viewed, and software. There would then be, with industry-accepted standards, a vehicle for the customer to impartially verify the grade of the item he was buying. Is there any merit to this idea?--J.B.
Answer: Grading is probably the biggest bugaboo in numismatics. Many systems have been devised and many grading services have been established. But when all is said and done, grading is still just a matter of opinion. It is subjective and unscientific. To exaggerate a bit, how would you grade the Mona Lisa? True, it is a work of art. To some, it is priceless. Others, however, just find it interesting but wouldn’t give it wall space.
Coin grading is something like this. Often the grade depends on whether you are the buyer or the seller. Often the price determines the grade, and vice versa. Ultimately, grading is based on opinion. That’s why it’s important for collectors to learn as much as they can about grading and about the various characteristics of each coin.
Would a personal computer take the arguments out of grading? I doubt it. Numismatists I’ve talked to want to grade their coins themselves. Grading services may be used as a point of reference, but many such coins are being removed from their plastic entombment because the new owners disagree with the certified grade. They’d rather trust their own judgment.
Greed is what creates overgraded coins. Knowledge creates fair prices. Could the personal computer become a useful tool in coin grading? I doubt it. We’ll always need the human element.
Coin News
A five-piece proof set honoring its participation in the 1988 Calgary Olympics is being issued by the Republic of Panama. Only 5,000 sets will be minted, consisting of a gold 50 Balboa and four different silver 1 Balboas. Among the nearly half-ounce silver pieces is a freestyle skier (pictured). The complete set is available from PandaAmerica Corp., 23326 Hawthorne Blvd., Skypark Ten, Suite 150, Torrance, Calif. 90505; telephone (800) 4-PANDAS.
The Gold & Silver Emporium will conduct its sixth annual seminar on silver, gold, platinum and rare coins at two locations next week. The first session will be Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Universal Sheraton Hotel in Universal City. It will be followed Wednesday at the Anaheim Sheraton Hotel also at 7:30 p.m. For reservations, call (800) 537-4500.
Coin Calendar
Sunday--Coins, stamps, post cards, baseball cards, books and other collectibles will be featured at the 27th annual show sponsored by the Covina Coin Club. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at Joslyn Center, 815 N. Barranca Ave., Covina. Information: Chuck Ham, (714) 599-0064.