Artifact Grading Criteria
We utilize the internationally recognized 10-Point Grading Scale on each of our certificates of authenticity. Some form of this standardized system is currently used in nearly every hobby worldwide as a guideline for grading collectibles. The 10-Point Grading Scale has developed into the standard for the hobby and is accepted by professional relic dealers, collectors, and leading auction houses.
Grade 10+
A superior artifact that is museum quality in all aspects, no detracting imperfections, superb symmetry, and visually appealing in all regards. The finest example you would ever expect to see of the artifact type. Rarely is this class of artifact made available for sale.
Grade 10
An artifact that is of the Highest quality in all aspects, no detracting imperfections, superb symmetry. This grade of artifact possesses outstanding visual appeal and is highly sought after by collectors.
Grade 9
A virtually perfect artifact in all aspects. May show one or two minute detracting marks only. An extremely high grade artifact, that has exceptional eye appeal and is highly collectible.
Grade 8
A very high grade and visually appealing artifact to collect. Very few, if any, detracting marks, better than average quality. Most high grade artifacts fall into this grading category.
Grade 7
A collector grade level artifact that falls just short of a high grade designation. It may suffer from a few detracting marks or uneven symmetry. A very collectible grade of artifact.
Grade 6
A collector grade artifact that may have a few flaws that keeps it from being a higher grade. Often this grade has a few detracting marks, average workmanship, and average symmetry. Still a collectible grade of artifact.
Grade 5
An average grade artifact that usually features non-serious detracting marks. Average in symmetry, size, and workmanship. A commonly collected grade of artifact.
Grade 4
An average grade artifact with a few more detracting marks than a grade 5 artifact. Average in form, size, and workmanship. A very common grade of artifact.
Grade 3
A below average quality artifact. Serious detracting marks and damage areas are obvious. A low grade of artifact.
Grade 2
A below average quality artifact. Serious detracting marks and heavy damage areas are obvious. A very low grade of artifact.
Grade 1
A below average quality artifact. Extreme detracting marks and heavy damage areas are obvious. Generally not a collected grade of artifact.
Broken
Broken grade of artifact. This grade of artifact can vary in desirability. Some of the rarer classification artifacts demand high prices, while the common classification artifacts are commonly disregarded.