Word Study
mint state
CIDE DICTIONARY
mint state, n.
A numerical grade indicating the degree of perfection of the condition of a coin which is classified as uncirculated, ranging from 70 for a coin in perfect condition to 60 for a coin which is uncirculated but may have a weak strike, or numerous small scratches from being handled in mint bags; usually used as the abbreviation MS; as, an MS-67 Morgan Dollar. [PJC]
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