Professional Conservation: What PCGS & NGC Actually Do

Conservation vs Cleaning

Cleaning is aggressive removal of surface material — acids, abrasives, or mechanical action that damages the coin. It's destructive and irreversible.

Conservation is careful, targeted treatment to remove harmful contaminants (PVC, verdigris, environmental deposits) while preserving the coin's original surface. It's performed by trained professionals using techniques and chemicals that don't damage the metal.

What Conservation Services Do

• Remove PVC residue from soft flip contamination.
• Stabilize or remove active verdigris (green corrosion on copper).
• Remove light environmental deposits or haze.
• Stabilize surfaces to prevent further deterioration.

Conservation Providers

• NCS (NGC Conservation Services) — NGC's in-house conservation arm. Coins can be submitted for conservation before grading. Fee: $25–$50 per coin plus grading fees.
• PCGS Restoration — PCGS offers restoration services. Fee: $25–$50 per coin.

When Conservation Makes Sense

• A valuable coin with PVC contamination that would otherwise receive a Details grade.
• A coin with active corrosion that will worsen without treatment.
• When the cost of conservation + grading is justified by the improved grade and value.

Up Next

Insuring Your Coin Collection.