pinholes – US Notes

Net Grading Explained: How Pinholes, Rust, and Stains Create Split Grades on US Currency

June 15, 2026 by

Net grading is one of the most misunderstood concepts in paper money collecting, yet it directly affects the value of thousands of notes in today’s market. This guide breaks down exactly how PCGS Currency, PMG, and independent dealers apply net grades, and what that means when you are buying, selling, or submitting notes for certification.

Counting House Pinholes: How Graders Detect Them and Why They Crush Your Note’s Value

June 15, 2026 by

Pinholes left by 19th and early 20th century counting house practices remain one of the most penalized defects in modern currency grading, yet many collectors struggle to spot them before submitting notes. This guide walks through detection techniques, grading penalties, and which series are most commonly affected so you can protect your collection.