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ICA uses a 70-point numerical scale derived from the
internationally recognized Sheldon grading scale.
ICA defines a 70 as having no evidence of handling visible at 5x magnification.
Notes graded 70 must also qualify for the ICA
The highest grade assigned. Notes must have no evidence of handling visible at 5x magnification. The margins and registration must appear centered to the unaided eye. Notes must qualify for the ICA Designation to be graded 70.
This note is nearly visually indistinguishable from a 70 but the margins and registration may appear slightly off center. There is no evidence of handling visible to the unaided eye.
The margins and registration are slightly off center. There may be very minor handling.
A note with above-average margins and registration. There may be minor handling.
There may be slightly more handling than a 67 note. The centering must be above average.
The note may have one or two minor distractions as a result of minor handling. The centering must be above average.
The centering is off on one or two sides. Some handling may be evident but there must be no folds in the design.
The centering is imperfect and the design may be flat. There may be several flaws but there will be no folds.
The note is strictly uncirculated but may have minor to-moderate handling and/or corner tip issues. There will be no folds, however. The margins may touch or come into the design.
The note is poorly centered and the margins come into the design. There may be counting marks, smudges or other signs of handling. There will be no folds through the design.
A note with problems that may include toned paper, a small stain or fading. There will be handling issues but there will be no folds through the design.
This grade is commonly assigned to a note that has one fold or two to three corner folds through the design.
The note has two heavier folds or light horizontal and vertical folds. The handling can be significant.
A note with two to three heavy folds, one of which may be horizontal.
There are three or more folds, one of which may be horizontal.
For years, dealers and collectors called this grade "VF-XF". This note looks Extremely Fine, but it will have four to seven light folds.
This note will be lightly circulated and may have light soiling. There will typically be seven to ten folds.
A note that shows modest evidence of circulation as well as more folds and/or soiling than a note graded 30.
The note is moderately circulated with numerous folds, mild soiling. There are no serious distractions but there may be minor defects.
A solid, whole note with lots of circulation. The note is too limp and has a number of minor problems.
