Based on community discussions and expert opinions, ANACS (American Numismatic Association Certification Service) is generally considered a respectable and reliable coin grading company, though often regarded as “second tier” compared to PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation).
Here’s a breakdown of why:
- Long-standing history: ANACS is the oldest third-party grading service, founded in 1972.
- Reputable grading: They have a generally good reputation for accurate grading and authentication, [according to APMEX].
- Affordable: ANACS typically offers lower fees than PCGS and NGC, and doesn’t require a membership fee for submissions.
- Variety and error attribution: ANACS excels at identifying and attributing varieties and errors, often doing so more comprehensively than PCGS and NGC.
- Problem coin grading: Unlike PCGS and NGC, ANACS will grade “problem coins” (cleaned, damaged, etc.) and provide details on the issue.
- Good for budget-conscious collectors: For coins under a couple hundred dollars, ANACS grading can provide authentication and a fair grade at a reasonable price, [according to one Youtube video].
- Improved standards: Some sources suggest ANACS has improved their grading standards in recent years.
- Less market value/liquidity: Coins graded by ANACS generally sell for less and are less liquid in the market compared to those graded by PCGS and NGC. This can make them less desirable for high-value or investment-oriented coins.
- Perceived inconsistencies: Some users have reported inconsistencies in grading over time, particularly with older holders.
- Customer service issues: A few users have reported negative experiences with ANACS customer service.
- Ugly holders (subjective): Some collectors find the current ANACS holders visually unappealing.
- ANACS is a reliable option for authenticating and grading coins, especially for budget-minded collectors or those primarily interested in varieties and errors.
- If you’re looking to maximize resale value, particularly for higher-value coins, PCGS and NGC are generally preferred by the market.
- It’s always wise to research the specific coin and assess whether ANACS’ strengths (affordability, variety attribution) align with your goals, and to consider potential market value differences.
Is ANACS trusted?
Yes. ANACS is the first major grading service to grade cleaned, corroded, damaged, repaired, and other “problem coins”. Label’s display a coin’s “detail grade” and the coin’s corresponding problem(s).
What is the highest quality coin grade?
(MS-70) Mint State Perfect
Mint State Perfect coins show no post-production imperfections visible under 5x magnification. Their flawless appearance and exceptional quality make them the highest grade in the Sheldon Scale.
Is CAC better than NGC?
Whether one coin is better than another is highly subjective and likely to spur immense strife. That said, a Certified Acceptance Corporation (CAC) sticker on a Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) or a Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) graded coin will likely add significant value to the coin.