Paper currency grading

A banknotes grade is generally determined by crispness (Rigid, not limp paper), brightness, and depth of color.

Other factors that are taken into consideration include centering of the printed area, artificially suppressed folds, repairs, and pinholes.

Certification services professionally grade banknotes for tiered fees.

Top-quality grades include "Gem" or "Choice" condition which is usually dubbed as "New" by sellers down to "poor" for notes barely identifiable.

Paper money, in general, can become "ugly" over time which in turn affects eye appeal and value as it does with coins.