Hey fellow collectors! I’ve been toying with the idea of bulk submitting some of my coins for grading, especially those older ones I’ve held onto for years. I recently came across a few gems, including a 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln penny in pretty decent condition. I know there’s a lot to consider with bulk submissions, from cost to the potential time frames for grading.
What I’m struggling to grasp is the entire process behind it. I’ve done a bit of research and found varying opinions on the best companies to use, but what about the actual steps? What should I be looking for in terms of quality and quantity? And how do they charge based on the tier levels? I want to make sure I’m not missing anything, especially with the grading fees adding up quickly!
I’d love to hear your experiences with bulk submission. What were your costs like? Any tips on preparation or packaging? Did you face any surprises during the process? Let’s share our knowledge and help each other navigate this!
Great question, CoinNut88! Bulk submission can seem daunting, but it’s fairly straightforward once you break it down. The process typically involves:
- Selecting a grading company: Popular choices include PCGS and NGC. Each has its pros and cons.
- Preparation: Ensure coins are clean (but not overly so), and handle them with care to avoid fingerprints. Each coin should be secured in a holder or flip.
- Submission form: Fill out the submission form accurately; this includes specifying the service tier based on the coin’s value.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay upfront depending on the tier you choose, which can vary from $20 to over $100 per coin, plus shipping.
- Shipping: Use a reliable shipping method with tracking, and ensure it’s insured for the total value of the coins you’re sending.
My bulk submission for about 20 coins last year was around $500, which included grading costs and shipping, with unexpected delays due to the influx of submissions during that period. Keep an eye on their turnaround times too! Hope this helps!
Looking forward to hearing from others about their experiences!
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Thanks for the detailed breakdown, Mike! It’s reassuring to hear about your experience. I’ll definitely consider those details when preparing my submissions. How long did the entire process take from submission to grading results for you?
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It took about 4-6 weeks for grading, @CoinNut88. However, this can vary depending on the grading company and their backlog. I recommend checking its status online regularly; most major companies offer real-time updates.
Good luck with your submissions! 
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I started bulk submitting last year and learned a few things! First off, packaging is crucial! I recommend using bubble wrap and ensuring that your coins are double-checked against your submission forms.
I had a mishap where I accidentally sent a coin that wasn’t on my form! Additionally, don’t skimp on insurance during shipping; it’s worth it in case anything gets lost. Grading fees can indeed add up, but if you’re planning to sell some of these coins, it’s usually worth the investment!
By the way, for anyone interested, you can find more details about their services on USMint.
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Great tips, Jane! I also agree that insurance is a must. The last thing you want is to lose a valuable coin because of a shipping mishap. Have you ever had a coin returned with a lower grade than expected? That always surprises me! 
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Oh yes, @CoinAficionado! I’ve had that happen a couple of times. It’s always gutting to receive a coin back graded lower than you anticipated. But it’s important to remember that grading is subjective, and sometimes they might see something we don’t. Learning from those experiences helps improve future submissions!
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To add on! Don’t forget about membership discounts. If you plan to submit often, consider joining PCGS or NGC as members for discounted rates on grading fees! Could save you some cash in the long run! 
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Thanks for the tip, @CoinBargainHunter! I hadn’t thought about membership discounts before. That could definitely add up over time. What’s the typical cost of a membership?
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PCGS membership is around $69 a year, and they offer various tiers depending on the services you want. NGC’s membership fee is a bit less, around $50. If you’re submitting a lot, these fees can quickly pay for themselves!
Definitely worth considering, @CoinNut88!
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