"EF", or alternately "XF", is the abbreviation for a major grade classification called "Extremely Fine". Within that major classification there are two subcategories, EF-40 and EF-45. EF-45 is often called "Choice Extremely Fine" to distinguish it from EF-40. Specifically,
Source: United States Mint
Yes, they are over rated. If your coin or the coin you are considering is worth more than one thousand dollars you should use them, however, it is stupid to pay for their over priced grading on cheaper coins. NAC Grading is a much better choice and a much lower fee.
Less than good. The lowest grade.
This coin graded EF40 is worth around $101. You may get more or less when you take it to a collector.If the coin has been certified & slabbed by one of the major grading services, the label should read "With EF-40 details" not graded EF-40 with details. This usually means the coin has been cleaned or has other damage but the coin does have the details of a EF-40 grade. Current average retail value of a EF-40 1878-CC Morgan, as of 7-1-11, is $90.00-$100.00 this is one of the more common Carson-City Mint Morgans
The coin in EF-40 has a average retail value of $155.00.
This is a bit of a simplification, but the term refers to coins that have been spent in commerce. Newly minted coins are shipped to banks for use in change-making. Up to that point the coins are considered to be uncirculated, but once they've been used in retail transactions and mixed with other coins they're said to circulated.
Very fine condition
it means that a porfecinal has authenticated and determaned the codition of a coin
PR is a grading system used for proof coins
In America, "RD" is an abbreviation for "red", a grading-service color designation for copper coins.
EF refers to the condition or grading of the coin, it means "Extremely Fine". An "Extremely Fine" coin should show some slight signs of wear that are barely noticeable to the naked, unassisted eye.
In coin grading, "Extremely Fine" (EF) typically refers to a condition where a coin shows signs of light wear but retains significant detail. The surfaces may exhibit some minor scratches or marks, yet the overall design elements remain well-defined. Coins in this grade often have a pleasing appearance and are considered collectible, as they strike a balance between quality and affordability.
EF refers to the condition or grading of the coin, it means "Extremely Fine". An "Extremely Fine" coin should show some slight signs of wear that are barely noticeable to the naked, unassisted eye.
DCAM stands for Deep Cameo and is reserved for proof coins
PQ= Premium Quality. Bu= Brilliant Uncirculated.
PCGS stands for Professional Coin Grading Service. It is a third-party coin grading organization that evaluates and authenticates coins for collectors and investors. PCGS uses a scale from 1 to 70 to grade coins based on their condition and collectible value.
EF (or XF) stands for Extra Fine (sometimes also called Extremely Fine), one of the higher grades for a circulated coin. An EF coin will have very slight wear on the high points of the design but no other evidence.
The indicator E-F in diamond grading may indicate a colour range for a white diamond. It is in the most desirable range, also known as colourless. You can review the colour range, below.