NGC Paper Currency & Banknote Grading 2

Question 1

In PMG grading, what term describes a note that shows clear signs of handling but retains most of its original brightness and only minor folds?

Accepted Answer

About Uncirculated (AU)

Answer

About Uncirculated (AU) notes show slight evidence of circulation but retain nearly all original crispness and brightness.

Question 2

Which feature on a US Federal Reserve Note helps authenticate it and is visible only under ultraviolet light?

Accepted Answer

Security thread with UV-fluorescent ink

Answer

Modern US Federal Reserve Notes contain a plastic security thread embedded in the paper that glows under UV light as an anti-counterfeiting measure.

Question 3

A banknote graded PMG 64 EPQ carries the EPQ designation, which stands for what?

Accepted Answer

Exceptional Paper Quality

Answer

EPQ stands for Exceptional Paper Quality, indicating the note has original paper, original color, and no restoration.

Question 4

When grading paper currency, 'foxing' refers to which type of defect?

Accepted Answer

Small rust-colored spots caused by fungal or oxidation damage

Answer

Foxing describes brownish or reddish spots caused by mold, fungus, or oxidation on the paper surface of a banknote.

Question 5

What does the term 'centering' refer to when evaluating a banknote's grade?

Accepted Answer

The alignment of the printed design relative to the note's margins

Answer

Centering describes how well the printed design is centered within the margins on both the face and back of the note.

(NGC) Numismatic Guaranty Corporation Certified Professional Practice Test