How to Submit Coins for Professional Grading

Getting Your Coins Professionally Graded

Submitting coins for professional grading is straightforward. This guide walks you through every step.

Step 1: Decide Which Coins to Submit

• Submit if estimated slab value is at least 2–3x the grading cost.
• Submit key dates, scarce varieties, and coins you plan to sell.
• Submit suspected counterfeits — authentication alone is worth the fee.
• Don't submit common coins worth under $50.
• Don't submit cleaned or damaged coins unless you accept a "Details" grade.

Step 2: Get a Membership

PCGS: Collectors Club $99/year, Silver $149/year, Gold $249/year.

NGC: Associate $25/year, Full Member $39/year, Premium $99/year.

Alternative: Submit through an authorized coin dealer without your own membership.

Step 3: Choose a Service Tier

• Economy (30–45 days) — $22–$30/coin. Best value for most collectors.
• Standard (15–20 days) — $35–$50/coin.
• Express (5–10 days) — $65–$100/coin.
• Walkthrough (1–2 days) — $100–$300+. Available at major coin shows.

Step 4: Complete the Submission Form

1. Log in to your PCGS or NGC account.
2. Create a new submission.
3. Enter each coin: date, denomination, variety, declared value.
4. Select your service tier.
5. Add special requests: variety attribution, imaging.
6. Print the submission form to include in your package.

Step 5: Package Your Coins

• Use 2x2 cardboard flips — stapled shut with submission line number.
• Never use PVC flips — they damage coins. Use Mylar or cardboard only.
• Wrap in bubble wrap to prevent movement.
• Use a small, sturdy box (USPS Priority Mail flat-rate works well).
• Include the printed submission form inside.

Step 6: Ship Your Submission

• USPS Registered Mail — Most secure. Required for high-value submissions. ~$15–$20.
• USPS Priority Mail with insurance — Adequate for moderate-value submissions.
• FedEx/UPS — Both accepted. Include tracking and insurance.
• Insure for the full declared value.

Step 7: Receiving Your Graded Coins

You'll get an email with grades assigned. Coins ship back in sealed slabs with unique certification numbers verifiable on PCGS.com or NGCcoin.com.

Submitting at Coin Shows

Both PCGS and NGC accept submissions at major coin shows. Walk your coins to their table, get walkthrough grading (1–2 days), discuss with graders, and avoid shipping risk entirely.

Up Next

Reading a PCGS or NGC Slab Label.