Hey fellow collectors! I’m just diving into the world of numismatics, and I find myself at a crossroads: PCGS or NGC? I recently inherited a few coins from my grandfather, and I want to make sure I’m protecting and valuing them properly. I’ve been researching both grading services, but it feels like I have more questions than answers.
From what I’ve gathered, PCGS seems to have a slight edge in the marketplace, especially for older coins, but NGC also has a stellar reputation. My grandfather’s coins are in decent condition, but a couple of them have noticeable wear. I’m curious whether the grading results will vary significantly between these services, especially considering I’m aiming to have them graded in their current condition.
I’d love to hear your experiences! Have you had any preference between the two? What do you think is the most important factor to consider when sending in your coins for grading? Any tips for a newbie like me would be greatly appreciated!
Welcome to the world of coin collecting! It’s an exciting journey, especially when you have coins from a loved one. Regarding your question, both PCGS and NGC are highly respected grading services, but they do have some differences that might help you make your decision.
From my experience with both:
- Market Demand: PCGS might give your coins a slightly higher resale value, particularly if they are older or more sought after.
- Grading Philosophy: NGC tends to be a bit more lenient in grading, which might work in your favor for coins with noticeable wear.
- Turnaround Time: Depending on the volume, one might be faster than the other, so it’s worth checking their current turnaround times.
Ultimately, consider what matters most to you: resale value, the trusted reputation, or grading accuracy. Good luck, and don’t hesitate to ask more questions as you dive deeper!
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I completely agree with @NumismaticNerd! I personally prefer NGC for my beginner coins. Their customer service is just outstanding, and I felt really supported when I sent in my first batch. Plus, they provide detailed breakdowns of the grades for your coins, which is super helpful for newbies.
As for the noticeable wear, I’d recommend getting a second opinion from local dealers too. They can sometimes influence your decision on which service is best for grading before you send anything in. Good luck with your collection!
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It’s great that you’re considering how to protect your grandfather’s coins! Both grading companies have their pros and cons, but here’s a quick rundown of factors to consider:
- Cost: PCGS is typically more expensive for the initial submission.
- Reputation: As *NumismaticNerd* mentioned, PCGS generally has an edge in market recognition.
- Population Reports: Take a look at their reports on PCGS and NGC to see census data for your specific coins. It can help!
Whatever you choose, make sure to keep your coins in a safe environment and take care when handling them. You might consider using gloves to protect them from oils on your skin. Happy collecting!
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Thanks for the insights, @GradingGuru! I hadn’t thought about using gloves. I’ll definitely give that a try. I moved back to the census reports you mentioned, and it does seem interesting to see how many graded coins there are in each category! 
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For what it’s worth, I have used both services. They both do well, but if you’re looking to sell in the near future, I’d suggest PCGS. I’ve seen coins from my collection sell for at least 10-15% more just because they were graded by PCGS. But if you’re keeping them long-term, NGC’s slightly lower fees might be worth considering too.
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Just a quick thought—why not send one coin to each service and see how they grade it? You can compare their evaluations and choose your favorite! 
Just be careful not to go broke with all the shipping fees! 
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That’s actually a hilarious idea, @LighterSide! 
If I didn’t have to worry about my budget, I’d be tempted. I might consider it down the line! Thanks for making me smile!
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As a newbie who just sent in coins to NGC last month, I can tell you they have an excellent system in place. The tracking feature they offer is so reassuring. I felt involved at every step of the process. Make sure to keep your receipts and any paperwork for your collection too—just in case! 
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