Frequently Asked Questions
How Centering Effects Grades & Values
In regards to grades and centering (margins). The only time centering effects a grade is once the note is in CU 60 or higher.
In the book (The Standard Guide for Grading Paper Money) discusses "tolerance levels" for margins and the use of digital calipers. As an example, the difference between A 65 and a 66, is that they have tolerance levels of 70/30 and 60/40, respectively.
** Very important** Let's talk "VALUE." This is why there's such a "value difference" between same grades, such as 58's. You can have one 58 with horrible margins / centering, with a hard "tilt" and margins touching the design, faded colors, etc… and have another "same exact grade 58" that has 66 or 67 "Gem Margins." The price difference is enormous between the two. This makes it challenging at times for buyers to ascertain the price value of a note in the same grade as another.
As an example, I would estimate on the $1 Rainbow (outstanding margins) can add value of up to 25 to 50%! I am currently, buying a National (for my own collection) and the last one I bought recently was $2500 and now I'm "trying" to buy the Same EXACT grade for $5,000 (if he will sell it to me), same exact grade, but well
above average margins.
In the book (The Standard Guide for Grading Paper Money) discusses "tolerance levels" for margins and the use of digital calipers. As an example, the difference between A 65 and a 66, is that they have tolerance levels of 70/30 and 60/40, respectively.
** Very important** Let's talk "VALUE." This is why there's such a "value difference" between same grades, such as 58's. You can have one 58 with horrible margins / centering, with a hard "tilt" and margins touching the design, faded colors, etc… and have another "same exact grade 58" that has 66 or 67 "Gem Margins." The price difference is enormous between the two. This makes it challenging at times for buyers to ascertain the price value of a note in the same grade as another.
As an example, I would estimate on the $1 Rainbow (outstanding margins) can add value of up to 25 to 50%! I am currently, buying a National (for my own collection) and the last one I bought recently was $2500 and now I'm "trying" to buy the Same EXACT grade for $5,000 (if he will sell it to me), same exact grade, but well
above average margins.
