is there a standard for grading older paper money for sale? where might i find info on that?
I have a vintage $5.00 bills from 1972. I will sell it for $20.00
I’m sure someone will link to a more scientific one, but here’s how I [professionally] do it.
CU=crisp uncirculated. Not a single fold. NOT EVEN A MINOR ONE. Right off a brand new pack. Centering can influence whether you further call it average, choice, or gem.
AU=almost uncirculated. One fold, light, down the middle, is the usual. Or perhaps a corner became folded in handling.
EF= Extremely fine. One fold down the middle, and quite often two other vertical folds, one on either side of the middle fold. This occurs when a person folds a new bill down the middle, and then folds it over again. Or, it could be a heavy fold down the middle and folds in other places. But the “body” of the note is still very crisp.
VF=very fine. The three standard vertical folds, perhaps a horizontal fold running the width of the note, but the “body” is still there. Not in any way “limp” from use.
F=Fine. Pretty well circulated, still has some body but can be a bit limp, overall a well circulated note, but not worn down to where it is in any way frayed, nasty, etc.
VG=very good. Sound, very well worn, limp, not torn or frayed, but getting close around the edges,
G=good. Just about worn out, frayed to the point where edges have minor, short tears. very, very limp. dirty, nasty. A small piece of a corner could even be missing. Ready for the Federal REserve to shred it.