Just as an aside (and an indication of how much I'm paying attention), I sent 3 coins off to be graded by ANACS last Friday morning and to Austin, TX. Friday afternoon I found out the change in ownership and the move. D'oh! At least USPS tracking indicates the package got to Austin and had been forwarded to the new address.
The truth can frequently be known only in hindsight, which is too late in many cases. In my case, I don't personally know the players or their skill or their integrity, and this is an even greater disadvantage. An informed opinion by knowledgeable people is valuable in these circumstances.
Why do they care ? Easy, money. Say you had a collection at current market prices valued at a $100,000. Would you care if that value dropped 50% virtually overnight because a grading company changed their standards ? I'd bet you'd care.
Does anyone have anythig to say about Centsles or NNC coin grading service, they are owned by the same person. Please send me an email at EDITED---It's not a good idea to post your email address on an open forum.
It's Feb 27th,2010 now and I would like to know what's the verdict on ANACS?As I have been submitting dozens of coins there recently.
I would call ANACS 4th overall behind PCGS/NGC and ICG. Their coins seem to trend about 20%-30% less then coins graded by NGC or PCGS.
Based on what I have seen, ANACS and ICG (the new ones) don't even count anymore. It used to be there were the top 4 grading companies. Today - there are only 2.
I've read articles on ANACS but they were a couple years old.I saw another one out there while trying to find info.It's DGS.Their price for submissions was $10.Maybe I will send in an order.
Commnets on ICG Hi, I have used ICG for British and Commonwealth coins. I have used NGC and PCGS. I find the NGC pricing structure to be overinflated and I have found the grading variable. I have found PCGS consistent buy not very helpful and pricey if before 1955. I seek quality protection for my rare coins and an honest grade. ICG has been right on the mark for the many world (UK, South African, New Zealand, Australia, Indian ...) coins I have sent to be graded. Their grading has been consistent and accurate. I like their level of professionalism and understatement. At 12 dollars per coin for a value grade (under 500 dollars in pecuniary worth), it represents excellent value for money. As a secondary matter, I appreciate the ability to customise the label with my own collection signature since my coins are part of an extensive and respected series. Politics and dealer bias aside, I find ICG well worth it as an investment in the security and pedigree of my coins. --CP--
While I agree with much said, I assure you some quality coins can be found in the latest ANACS and ICG holders. Since their market perception is so dim, one can frequently get a nice coin at The Nice Price. I have crossed several over to PCGS at the same grade and done well. At the Orlando FUN Auction, Heritage had a marvelous Bust 25c in an ICG holder. I looked at it very, very carefully before throwing down a fairly strong bid. Sadly, someone else had a similar thought pattern. The coin sold for strong money - in an ICG holder. Why ? Because we "Bid the coin, not the holder".