Is Coin Grading Cost Worth It? What You Should Expect

Is Coin Grading Cost Worth It? What You Should Expect

What if that old penny you found in the attic might be worth something? Or perhaps you’ve recently acquired a rare coin and are curious about its value. You’ve probably heard about coin grading – the process that can transform your coin into a certified source of money. But what does it cost to get a coin graded?

What if that old penny you found in the attic might be worth something? Or perhaps you’ve recently acquired a rare coin and are curious about its cost. But how can you evaluate your coin? You’ve probably heard about coin grading – the process that can transform your coin into a certified source of money. But what does it cost to get a coin graded?

The reality is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You may have got a shiny quarter or a rare, ancient coin, the cost of grading coin varies based on multiple factors. And today we’re going to tell you everything about it.

A man with magnifying glass over a rare coin who assess how much does it cost to grade a coin.

PCGS and NGC

When you’re getting your coin graded, you’ll likely turn to the big names in the industry: PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) and NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). These companies offer a trusted certification for more credibility and value to your coin. But naturally, coin grading fees come with it.

For instance, the cost of PCGS grading depends on the type of coin, its value, and the turnaround time you need. The cost of coin grading can range anywhere from around $20 to over $300 (depends on your submission). Yes, grading a coin is an investment, but one that could significantly boost your coin's market value.

Close-up of a certified coin slab with a PCGS label, showing the grading details.

How Much Does It Cost to Grade a Coin?

So, how much does it cost to have coins graded? If you’re sending a common modern coin, you might be looking at a grading fee starting at $22. However, for more valuable coins, grading fees go up based on the coin’s declared value. And that’s before adding the shipping and handling costs! So, if you’ve got a prized penny, don’t be surprised if the cost to get coins graded is more than you initially expected.

Curious about a specific type of coin? The PCGS grading cost for a standard U.S. coin is generally between $22 and $150 (depends on the coin's value and the service level). But, if you’re aiming to certify an ancient coin or something particularly rare, brace yourself—grading coins cost for high-value pieces can reach hundreds of dollars.

Several coins laid out on a table, ready for grading submission, with a calculator beside them that symbolize coin grading costs.

What Does It Cost to Have a Coin Graded? More Than Just the Fee

It’s not just the grading fees you need to consider. When you ask yourself, “How much does it cost to get a coin graded?”, remember that shipping, insurance, and additional fees may sneak in, especially if you want a faster turnaround. You may also encounter extra charges for imaging, special labels, or crossovers between grading services.

And don’t forget, submitting multiple coins can often give you a better deal on cost to grade coins—think bulk submission discounts. But if you're looking to get a penny graded, keep in mind that the cost to grade may sometimes exceed the coin’s value unless it's a rare or error penny, as minting error coins are usually more expensive (as well as other mistakes).

Coin grading fees – at a glance:

Service

Estimated Cost

Common Modern Coins (U.S.)

$22 - $50

Rare Coins

$100 - $300+

Fast Turnaround

+$50 (rush fee)

Bulk Submissions (10+ coins)

Discounts Available

Insurance and Shipping

Varies by value and location


Disclaimer: These are only average prices of how much does it cost to get a coin certified. They may differ because of the services you use, the volume of grading, etc. 

Coin ID Scanner: The Future of Coin Identification

Before you even consider paying those coin grading costs, there’s a new tool at your disposal: the Coin ID Scanner app. This app allows you to scan and identify your coin with a quick photo. So you can understand its potential value before sending it off for grading. No more guessing! With the Coin ID Scanner (https://coin-identifier.com/), you’ll know whether your coin is worth the grading fees or better suited to your personal collection.

A female collector using a mobile app to scan and identify a cost to get coins graded.

So, Is It Worth It?

The answer depends on your goals. If you’re a collector who is looking for validation, or a seller who wants to maximize profit, certifying a coin can be worth the cost. Knowing the precise condition of your coin can also ensure that you’re not leaving money on the table when you sell it. The cost of grading coins pales in comparison to the potential value boost a high grade can bring.

In conclusion, the cost to get a coin certified isn’t a flat rate. It’s influenced by the type of coin, its value, the grading service, and additional perks you choose. Your questions may vary: How much does it cost to get a coin graded, or what is the PCGS coin grading cost? One thing is clear: the investment can pay off, but you need to weigh your options.

So, if you don’t know how much does it cost to get coins graded, think about the bigger picture. What’s the potential value of your coin? What’s the story it holds? And, more importantly, what would it feel like to hold a piece, knowing it’s certified, graded, and treasured? Just remember: not all coins are created equal, and neither are their grading fees!

Sources:

  1. https://learn.apmex.com/answers/q-how-much-does-it-cost-to-grade-a-coin/ 

  2. https://www.pcgs.com/servicesandfees

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