If you're into collecting PCGS graded coins at all then you're almost certainly aware that PCGS (and the other major third party grading companies) grade mint state copper coins with a colour code. These colour codes (RD for red, RB for red brown, and BN for brown) try to describe the colour of a coin, but a coin is far too complex a beast to be able to be described with a simple two letter code. So, lets take a look at a few coins.
One of the coins above has been designated as RB (red brown) and the other as RD (red). Which is which?
Is the coin on the left a RD or RB coin? What about the one on the right, RB or BN (brown)? What does RB really mean anyway?
The coin on the left is an attractive rainbow half penny oozing eye appeal, the one on the right an even brown coin. Both are designated as RB and one is graded 1 point higher than the other. Which is the higher grade and which is more desirable?
I've answered all these questions (and several more) over on the Purple Penny website, in the new article PCGS Graded Australian Copper Coins and Colour Codes. It is well worth the read for anyone interested in collecting or buying slabbed Australian copper coins.
Posted by mnemtsas at October 5, 2009 10:17 AM
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