The cost of having a coin graded varies depending on several factors, including the chosen grading service (PCGS or NGC), the coin’s value, the desired turnaround time, and any additional services requested.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs involved:
Both PCGS and NGC require a paid annual membership to submit coins for grading.
- NGC: Associate membership starts at $25 per year.
- PCGS: Silver membership starts at $69 per year.
- Higher tiers are available for both companies, offering additional benefits and grading vouchers.
Grading fees are typically based on the coin’s value and the chosen service tier.
- Economy Tier: For lower-value coins (e.g., under $300), fees start at around $22-$23, with longer turnaround times.
- Standard Tier: For coins valued up to $2,500 – $3,000, fees are around $38 – $40, with shorter turnaround times.
- Express Tier: For higher-value coins requiring faster service (e.g., up to $10,000), fees are around $65 – $80, with the shortest turnaround times.
- Higher Value Tiers: For very valuable coins (e.g., over $10,000), fees can range from $150 to $350 or more, plus a percentage of the coin’s value.
- Handling Fee: A handling fee of $10 per submission is charged by both NGC and PCGS.
- Shipping and Insurance: This cost varies depending on the number of coins, the declared value, and the shipping method chosen.
– Return shipping costs can range from $28 to $150 or more.
– Consider using USPS Registered Mail for valuable shipments, as it offers a high level of security and insurance options, but be sure to read the fine print regarding coverage limitations for coins of numismatic value.
- Specialty Services: Additional fees may apply for services like variety attribution, special labels, professional photography, or conservation.
Based on the above factors, the total cost for grading a single coin can range from approximately $86 for a lower-value coin using economy options and NGC’s Associate membership, up to several hundred dollars for a high-value coin requiring express service and additional services from PCGS.
- Is it worth grading? Only grade coins if the potential increase in value from professional certification outweighs the total cost of grading, including membership, fees, and shipping.
- Research market values: Before submitting, determine the current market value of your coin to help assess if grading is a worthwhile investment.
- Compare grading services: Research NGC and PCGS pricing structures and choose the service that best suits your needs and budget.
- Consult with experienced dealers: If you’re unsure about the value or grading potential of your coin, seek advice from a reputable coin dealer.
Can I grade a coin myself?
Although it is possible to learn to grade coins yourself, it will take years of experience to do it correctly. In our experience, many collectors think their coins are in a better condition than they actually are � so always be on your guard.