Definition: Net Grading is the process of giving coins a grade that is outside the normal parameters for coin grading. Most coin grading scales assume that the coin is free of any major faults, such as surface damage, improper cleaning, alterations, etc. Since coins with these problems cannot be graded in the normal way, the system of net grading evolved. A problem coin is given the grade it would have received if the problem didn't exist, along with a brief statement that explains the problem. A sample net grade might read, "VF-30 Details / Cleaned." Net grading is sometimes called Detail Grading.
Another use of the term net grading occurs when someone averages the grades between the obverse and reverse of a coin. If the obverse grades VF-30 and the reverse grades EF-40, the coin would have a "net grade" of VF-35. In this case, the coin isn't assumed to be a problem coin (unless stated.) This usage is archaic and is discouraged in the modern coin market, but it is sometimes seen on coins graded prior to about 1980.
Another use of the term net grading occurs when someone averages the grades between the obverse and reverse of a coin. If the obverse grades VF-30 and the reverse grades EF-40, the coin would have a "net grade" of VF-35. In this case, the coin isn't assumed to be a problem coin (unless stated.) This usage is archaic and is discouraged in the modern coin market, but it is sometimes seen on coins graded prior to about 1980.
Also Known As: Detail Grading
Examples:
Many pre-Federal and early U.S. copper coins have suffered some damage through the centuries, so the grades you will see for them are often net grades that take into account this surface damage.