Preservation degree
The value of a coin depends of course strongly on its state of preservation. In the first instance the different mint kinds must be distinguished. Then according to treatment, circulation term etc. the coin loses its (collectors-) value by soiling, damage, scratches, weather influences, chem. Processes and so forth.
In the following a list of the abbreviations used in the catalogue
| PP |
Polierte Platte proof |
By a polished die, partially minted on a polished Schrötling (coin blank). The best mint quality. Shining background parts, matt relief. |
| Exp |
Export brilliant uncirculated |
The finest st-quality, without scratches and damages. Very seldom! |
| st |
Stempelglanz mint condition |
The coin shows no damages, scratches hardly exist. Fully-brilliant. |
| bfr / unz |
Bankfrisch/unzirkuliert uncirculated |
The coin wasn't yet in circulation. It can show production related tracks of coinage and transport. |
| vz |
vorzüglich very fine |
The coin has small scratches, light use tracks.
|
| ss |
sehr schön fine |
The coin was in circulation and has small scratches. A little brilliantly. |
| s |
schön very good |
The coin was longer in circulation. Clear use tracks. |
Partial intermediate stages (e.g., ss/vz) are also given.