Mint State refers to a grade used in numismatics. It is given to a coin which was not used in circulation, and thus can be described "as new".
In modern-day United States numismatics, mint state coins are given a number from 60 to 70, with 70 being a perfect coin with no visible blemishes such as hits or wear. Coins with a low grade (60-63), although unworn, may suffer from weak striking, bag marks and other defects that make them less attractive to the collector. Some early coins appear quite worn in mint state, due to striking problems.
Famous quotes containing the word state:
“I met a Californian who would
Talk California—a state so blessed
He said, in climate, none had ever died there
A natural death, and Vigilance Committees
Had had to organize to stock the graveyards
And vindicate the state’s humanity.”
—Robert Frost (1874–1963)