Grading
PCGS vs NGC: which grading service should you use?
PCGS and NGC are the two leading coin grading services, and both are accepted everywhere coins are sold. For most coins, either is a fine choice; pick based on price and turnaround for your coin. Grading is worth it only when a coin's certified value is well above its raw value plus the total cost of grading, which usually means coins worth at least a few hundred dollars.
The short comparison
| PCGS | NGC | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1986 | 1987 |
| Reputation | Top tier | Top tier |
| To submit directly | Collectors Club membership required | Collector membership or through an authorized dealer |
| Grading fees | Start around $20 to $25 per coin for basic tiers, plus handling and shipping; higher-value coins cost more | |
| Resale | Both widely accepted; some collectors pay a small premium for PCGS on classic US coins, and the difference is small for most coins | |
Fees and membership terms change; check pcgs.com and ngccoin.com for current schedules before submitting.
When is grading worth it?
Add up the full cost: membership (if you don't have one), the grading fee for your coin's value tier, shipping both ways and insurance. Then compare the coin's certified value in its likely grade with what it would sell for raw. Grading pays off for:
- Key dates and rare varieties, like the 1992 close AM or 1972 doubled die, where buyers won't pay full value without certification.
- Possible off-metal errors, like a 1943 bronze or 1944 steel cent, where authentication is the whole value.
- High-grade coins where one grade point changes the price a lot.
It usually doesn't pay for common circulated coins, silver bought for its metal, or coins worth under about $100.
Other services
ANACS and ICG also grade coins and are often cheaper, and their holders are accepted, though usually at lower prices than PCGS or NGC for the same coin. CAC doesn't grade from scratch for most collectors; its sticker on a PCGS or NGC holder signals that the coin is solid for its grade.
Submitting your first coin
- Confirm the coin is worth grading (above).
- Join the service or find an authorized dealer who submits for customers.
- Fill in the online submission form with the coin's date, mint mark, variety and your declared value.
- Pack each coin in a soft flip, ship insured, and wait for the turnaround for your tier.
Questions
Is PCGS or NGC better?
Both are top tier and accepted everywhere. Choose based on cost and turnaround for your coin. Some collectors pay slightly more for PCGS on classic US coins.
How much does it cost to get a coin graded?
Basic tiers start around $20 to $25 per coin plus handling, shipping and, for PCGS, a membership. Higher-value coins cost more to grade.
Should I get my coin graded?
Only if its certified value is well above its raw value plus the full cost of grading. That usually means rare dates, varieties, errors and high-grade coins.