NGC Coin Grading FAQ
Frequently Axked Questions on NGC Coins
What is NGC?
NGC stands for the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation, an independent third-party coin grading service established in 1987. NGC is a respected authority in authenticating, grading, and encapsulating coins.
What does it mean for a coin to be "graded"?
Grading is the evaluation of a coin's condition, affecting its value. NGC grades coins on a scale from 1 to 70, with 70 being flawless. Higher grades indicate better condition and often higher value.
What are the benefits of having a coin graded by NGC?
NGC grading offers benefits including authenticity verification, condition assessment, protective encapsulation, and increased liquidity for buying, selling, or trading coins.
What is the NGC grading scale?
The NGC grading scale ranges from 1 to 70, with descriptions from Poor (P-1) to Mint State (MS-70). Higher numbers indicate coins in better condition.
This NGC Graded Coin example shows an Atlantic Salmon 50p coin that has achieved a grade of "PF70 Ultra Cameo" which is the highest grade possible for this coin. The label shows "First Year of Issue" signifying that this coin is the 2023 variant.
Pro Tip! For fifty pence coins, the label will tell you if it is a silver coin for nickel-cupro base metal coin by having an "S" (or not) if front of the 50p description.
So a silver coin shows "S50P" and a base coin just "50P" as in this example. Don't over-pay for a base BU coin, thinking that it is silver!
"Proof Set" description indicates that this coin was taken from a proof set. In this case the Royal Mint 2023 Annual Coin Set.
How do I submit a coin for NGC grading?
To submit a coin to NGC, join as an NGC member or use an authorized dealer, fill out the submission forms, ship your coin securely, and wait for the grading results.
What are NGC designations like "Ultra Cameo" or "Proof"?
NGC designations such as Proof (PF), Ultra Cameo (UC), Star (?), and Plus (+) highlight special characteristics like sharp contrast, eye appeal, or higher-end grading.
How do I care for and store NGC-graded coins?
Store NGC coins in a cool, dry environment, handle the holder carefully, and use a secure storage option like a safe to prevent damage.
How can I verify an NGC certification number?
Enter the unique certification number on NGC's website in the "Verify NGC Certification" section to check the coin's grade, certification, and authenticity.
Use NGC's verification tool if buying online to check the certification details.
Here is an example of the NGC QRcode that you can scan with the verification APP from your mobile device to get a coin's grading details. It will show you if the coin is genuine and how many of this particular grade exist currently.
Consider that new coins can be submitted for grading at any time so a low population coin may not stay that way if more coins acheive the same grade.
Can NGC coins increase in value?
Yes, NGC-graded coins, especially those in high grades, can increase in value over time depending on factors like rarity, demand, and condition.
What does "Details Grading" mean?
"Details Grading" is used when a coin has significant imperfections. NGC will specify issues (e.g., "Cleaned," "Scratched") but confirms the coin's authenticity.
What is the difference between NGC and PCGS?
Both NGC and PCGS are respected grading services with similar scales. Collectors may have preferences based on holder style, grading tendencies, or market reputation.
How much does NGC grading cost?
NGC grading fees vary based on coin type, service level, and turnaround time. Check the NGC website for the current fee schedule.
Where can I buy NGC-graded coins?
NGC-graded coins are available through coin dealers, online auctions, and marketplaces like eBay.
Always take the time to verify the seller's reputation.
You can also follow the NGC Facebook Page
How long does NGC grading take?
Grading times vary based on service level and demand. Standard grading takes a few weeks, while expedited services are faster but more costly.
What are the NGC Coin Strike Types and other descriptors?
Strike Type
NGC uses two-letter codes before a coin's numeric grade to describe its method of production and overall appearance.
The most common are MS for Mint State coins (those struck for circulation) and PF for Proof coins (those struck for collectors). Another strike type is SP for Specimen, which describes a coin that falls short of the definition for actual Proofs but are superior to the normal currency issues.
Strike Characters
Strike characters are used to describe how well an area of a coin is struck and when information is of specific interest to collectors.
For example, strike characters can describe the degree of contrast on a Proof coin (Cameo and Ultra Cameo) or other distinctive features.
See All NGC Strike Characters
Numeric Grades
NGC assigns a numeric grade to clearly indicate the condition of a problem-free coin. These grades range from 1 to 70, following an internationally recognized scale established in the 1940s. Higher grades signify better coin condition.
Below the grade of 60, some numbers are omitted, as 60 marks the minimum grade for a coin to be classified as Uncirculated.
NGC Release Designations
NGC offers several special releases designations to recognize coins received for grading within a specified timeframe or at a particular event.
These releases designations, such as Early Releases, First Releases, First Day of Issue and Show Releases, work to capture the excitement of a new release and are generally paired with special NGC certification labels.