When Professional Authentication Makes Sense
- High-value purchases — Any raw coin worth over $200–$500.
- Key dates and rarities — The most counterfeited coins should only be purchased certified.
- Uncertain findings — When your home tests raise questions.
- Insurance/estate — Documented proof of authenticity.
- Before selling — Maximizes resale value and buyer confidence.
Authentication Services
- PCGS — Authenticates every coin as part of grading. Coins that fail return in a "Not Genuine" body bag.
- NGC — Same process. Also offers authentication-only service.
- ANACS — Oldest US authentication service (1972). Lower cost, will grade problem coins.
- CAC — Reviews already-certified coins for quality, not raw coins.
Costs
- Economy — $22–$30/coin, 30–45 days (PCGS/NGC). Includes authentication + grading.
- ANACS — $15–$25/coin. Faster turnaround.
- At coin shows — Walkthrough service: 1–2 days, $100–$300+.
What Happens When a Coin Is Fake
The coin returns in a "body bag" labeled "Not Genuine" with the reason (Cast Copy, Altered Date, etc.). You are not charged the grading fee — only handling/return shipping. The coin is not confiscated; it's returned to you.
Series Conclusion
Over 8 articles, you've learned to protect yourself from counterfeits — from physical testing to visual examination to professional authentication. The key takeaways:
- For coins over $100–$200, buy certified or have them authenticated.
- Build a basic toolkit: loupe, scale, calipers, magnet.
- Learn the specific diagnostics for coins you collect.
- Buy from reputable dealers at established coin shows.
Explore our other series on the Learn page.
This guide is for educational purposes. Where official standards, grading services, organization memberships, or legal requirements apply, consult the primary authority named in the references below or the relevant government agency.
Reviewed on February 18, 2026 by the US Coin Shows editorial team. Editorial policy
Official references and further reading
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does professional authentication cost?
PCGS/NGC economy: $22–$30/coin (30–45 days). ANACS: $15–$25. Walkthrough at shows: $100–$300+ (1–2 days). Includes both authentication and grading.
What happens if my coin is fake?
It returns in a body bag labeled Not Genuine with the reason. You're not charged the grading fee — only handling/shipping. The coin is not confiscated.
Apply what you've learned