SAGCE Slabbed Coins

South African Gold Coin Exchange

Two evaluation systems were used for Proof Krugerrands: the Old Evaluation System (OES) and the newer S.100 system.

Old Evaluation System (OES)

The OES gained wide recognition and was crucial in establishing a quantitative grading system. It was one of the most thorough grading methods of its time in the 1970s. However, it was overly meticulous and time-consuming. The OES used a grading scale of up to 35 points.

The Introduction of the S.100 System

Introduced in 1975, the S.100 system was developed to simplify and improve the OES. The South African Gold Coin Exchange designed it to streamline grading by restructuring and re-evaluating various aspects of the older system.

The S.100 system starts with a base score of 100 points, to which merit points are added for:

• Good frosting
• Well-defined fields
• Landings (rims)

Points are deducted for specific flaws, with pre-determined values assigned to different imperfections.

Comparability and Adoption

The S.100 system maintains a direct correlation with the OES, allowing easy conversion between grading scales. The system has also been adapted for broader numismatic use and can be translated into categories used by other dealers trading Proof Krugerrands.

Accessibility and Practicality

The S.100 system was designed for ease of use, allowing anyone—even without numismatic expertise—to evaluate a Proof Krugerrand in less than ten minutes using the official booklet.

Significance of Quantitative Grading

Quantitative grading systems, such as the Sheldon Scale and the improved Steve Ivy system, have become standard in the numismatic world. The OES certification service was considered one of the most important achievements of the South African Gold Coin Exchange, as it enabled inexperienced investors to buy Proof Krugerrands confidently.

Preventing Overpricing and Counterfeits

Without these grading systems, buyers risked purchasing:

• Polished UNC Krugerrands misrepresented as Proof versions
• Under-graded coins at inflated prices

By providing a structured certification process, the OES and S.100 systems helped safeguard collectors and investors.