The cost of grading a coin can vary widely depending on several factors, including the grading service you choose, the coin’s value, and the desired turnaround time.
- Grading Service: The two most widely recognized and reputable grading services are PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
– NGC generally offers slightly lower membership fees, starting at $25 annually for Associate membership.
– PCGS typically has higher membership fees, beginning at $69 annually for Silver membership.
- Coin Value: The grading fee scales with the declared or estimated value of the coin. More valuable coins incur higher grading costs due to the increased expertise and security required.
– For example, grading a common modern coin might start around $22, while grading a rare coin valued at $50,000 could cost $125 or more.
- Turnaround Time: Expedited or rush services come with an additional cost compared to standard turnaround times.
- Additional Services: Special labels, variety attribution, photography, and conservation services all add to the total cost.
- Shipping and Handling: A handling fee (typically $10 per submission for both NGC and PCGS) and return shipping and insurance costs are added to the grading fee. Shipping fees vary depending on the value and number of coins being returned.
- Lowest cost (economy tier): Grading a lower-value, non-gold coin (<$300) might start around $22-$23, plus membership, handling, and shipping.
- Typical cost (standard tier): Grading a standard coin ($2,500-$3,000) could cost around $38-$40, plus membership, handling, and shipping.
- Higher cost (rarities): Grading a high-value coin (>$100,000) can exceed $300, plus a percentage of the coin’s value, membership, handling, and shipping.
Important consideration: Grading a coin should be carefully considered, particularly for lower-value coins. The cost of grading can sometimes exceed the potential increase in the coin’s value, making it a potentially unprofitable investment.
Can I get my coin graded for free?
Great question! You can submit photos of your coins to us for free coin authentication and grading ! Here’s how it works: Take photographs of the coins you want graded. Make sure the coins are centered in the photo and hold the camera steady to avoid blurry pictures.