COLLECTOR EDUCATION
Buying PCGS, NGC and PMG certified items
A holder and a grade help organize information, but they do not replace checking the item, certification record, photographs and transaction terms.
Verify the certification number
Use the grading company’s public lookup to compare the country, date, denomination, grade and photographs where available. The label, holder and item should agree.
Read the grade and the surfaces
MS, PF, PR, AU and circulated grades describe condition within a grading system. Original surfaces, toning, marks, strike and eye appeal still matter between items with the same number.
Understand Details designations
Details does not automatically mean counterfeit. It commonly signals cleaning, scratches, repairs, corrosion or another surface issue. Read the stated problem and compare the price and future selling risk.
Buy from the complete record
Keep the listing, photographs, certification number, seller terms and shipping requirements together. If the title, image, holder or certificate record conflicts, pause and ask for clarification before paying.