Understanding Coin Grading: A Beginner’s Guide to MS63 and MS64

If you’ve ever browsed a coin dealer’s website or walked into a coin shop, you’ve likely seen designations like MS63 or MS64 attached to certain coins—especially popular ones like the Morgan Silver Dollar. For beginners, these grading numbers can be confusing. What do they mean? Why do they matter? And most importantly—how do they impact a coin’s value and investment potential?

At SpringHillCoinShop.com, we specialize in certified coins graded by the top two services in the industry: PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company). Today, we’ll break down the basics of coin grading—with a specific focus on MS63 and MS64 coins—so you can shop, collect, and invest with confidence.

What Is Coin Grading?

Coin grading is the process of evaluating a coin’s condition (also called its “state of preservation”) and assigning it a numerical grade. This grade plays a major role in determining the coin’s market value.

Coins are graded on a 70-point scale, where:

1 = Barely recognizable, heavily worn coin
70 = A flawless, perfect coin with no post-mint imperfections

For uncirculated coins (those never used in commerce), the scale begins at MS60 and goes up to MS70. “MS” stands for Mint State.

Why Coin Grading Matters

Grading provides:

✅ Authenticity: Certified coins are authenticated by experts.
✅ Consistency: Buyers and sellers know exactly what they’re dealing with.
✅ Trust: Graded coins often carry higher resale value and are easier to sell.
✅ Protection: Graded coins are sealed in tamper-proof holders to preserve condition.

Whether you’re collecting for passion or profit, understanding grading—especially the difference between common entry-level grades like MS63 and MS64—is essential.

The Difference Between MS63 and MS64: A Closer Look

At first glance, MS63 and MS64 may seem nearly identical. They’re just one point apart on the 70-point scale. But in coin collecting, that one point can mean the difference between a good investment and a great one.

Let’s break them down.

🪙 MS63: Mint State 63

Luster: Good, but may be slightly muted compared to higher grades.
Contact Marks: Moderate to heavy marks in key focal areas (like Liberty’s cheek or the eagle’s wings on a Morgan Dollar).
Eye Appeal: Average. The coin may have noticeable imperfections, but still attractive.
Price Point: More affordable and accessible to new collectors.

🟢 Best for: Entry-level collectors, silver stackers, and those looking to acquire more coins for less.

🪙 MS64: Mint State 64

Luster: Stronger and more vibrant than MS63 coins.
Contact Marks: Fewer and less severe. Any marks are typically in less noticeable areas.
Eye Appeal: Above average, with better overall presentation.
Price Point: Slightly higher than MS63, but often seen as a sweet spot between affordability and quality.

🟢 Best for: Collectors focused on aesthetics, long-term value, and potential appreciation.

Why That One Grade Point Matters

While MS63 and MS64 may appear similar, there are key market differences that coin dealers and savvy collectors take seriously.

💰 1. Price Gap

MS64 coins generally sell for 20–40% more than their MS63 counterparts, depending on date and mintmark.
For example:
- MS63 Morgan Dollar (common date): $80
- MS64 Morgan Dollar (common date): $105

📈 2. Investment Appeal

MS64 coins have higher upside potential, especially during times of increased demand from collectors.
They also tend to be less common in higher populations for specific dates, making them more desirable.

🧠 3. Psychological Impact

Many collectors prefer coins with fewer blemishes and better visual appeal, even if the metal content is the same.
A visually sharper coin is easier to sell later—and often commands a premium.

Why Buy Certified Coins?

Uncertified (“raw”) coins may seem cheaper, but they come with risk:

Condition may be misrepresented
Possibility of cleaning, which lowers value
Counterfeit concerns

When you buy certified MS63 or MS64 Morgan coins from SpringHillCoinShop.com, you get:

Grading by PCGS or NGC
Guaranteed authenticity
Tamper-proof slab
Accurate market value

It’s the safest and most transparent way to build your coin portfolio.

How Grading Affects Specific Coins: The Morgan Dollar Example

Let’s look at one of the most collected coins in U.S. history: the Morgan Silver Dollar.

MS63 Morgans are a favorite for budget-conscious collectors. They’re beautiful, historic, and widely available.
MS64 Morgans are one of the most actively traded grades—striking a perfect balance between quality and price.

If you’re building a Morgan Dollar collection, many gold coin dealers recommend:

Starting with MS63s to cover common dates
Adding MS64s for key dates or coins with particularly strong eye appeal

What About MS65 and Higher?

While MS65+ coins are visually impressive, their prices often jump dramatically—and they become harder to find, especially for certain years.

For new collectors, MS65+ may be too costly unless you’re targeting very specific pieces. MS63 and MS64 offer better value-per-dollar and are ideal for building a robust starter collection.

Tips for Buying Graded Coins as a Beginner

Stick to NGC and PCGS
These are the most respected grading services in the industry. Others may offer inconsistent or inflated grades.
Buy from Reputable Dealers
Like SpringHillCoinShop.com—where we specialize in quality, certified coins with full transparency.
Watch for Market Trends
Some coins may temporarily spike in popularity, but quality always retains long-term value.
Avoid “Raw Deals” That Seem Too Good
If a seller isn’t offering certification, there’s probably a reason.

Start Smart, Build Confidently

Grading is one of the most important factors in coin collecting and investing. And while it may seem technical at first, understanding the basics—especially the distinction between MS63 and MS64—will help you buy smarter, avoid overpaying, and build a collection you can be proud of.

At SpringHillCoinShop.com, we make it easy to get started. All of our coins are:

Certified by PCGS or NGC
Common date, random year for best value
Shipped securely and professionally
Backed by our commitment to education and service

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to level up your collection, MS63 and MS64 coins are excellent starting points—and we’re here to help every step of the way.

🛒 Ready to Shop?

1878 - 1904 NGC / PCGS Morgan Dollar Silver Coin Random Year MS64

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