I am in the process of buying some slabbed St. Gaudens. Given the choice, which grading company would be preferable and please explain why. Thank you.
Personally, I would look for the best coin for the grade for the best price -- irrespective of TPG. Generally that means on the buying side, a nice NGC gold coin as they tend to be more cheaply priced than their PCGS bretheren. However, if you don't have the skill/experience to differentiate between a properly graded coin and an overgraded one, you'd probably be better off with a PCGS coin as they tend to be more conservatively graded and your chances of buying a grossly overgraded coin goes down. All that said, if you are asking the question I would suggest you don't buy anything until you can grade for yourself (or buy in a grade where there's little downside to buying an overgraded coin -- essentially limiting your risk). Respectfully...Mike
Thank you Mike for your response. I have already taken delivery of 9 NGC St. Gaudens and will be receiving more in 10 days. I'll try for the PCGS. We'll see what the dealer says.
I'm with Leadfoot. Notice he only mentions two grading companies. Everyone agrees - "Buy the coin, not the slab". There is no doubt there is SIGNIFICANT difference within a given numerical grade. Not all MS64s are equal ! Maybe in theory they should be, but they aren't. So how to learn how to grade ? The best way to learn to grade is to read first, then cast your eye upon MANY pieces. Ask questions. I really enjoyed Jim Halperin's book "How to Grade US Coins". It presents an interesting methodology which can be applied to any series of coins. Read up, then... off to the display case we go ! With practice, you'll be able to discern what an MS64 "should" look like, and why a given coin is a 64 and not a 65. Right or wrong, the numerical grade is a dominant factor in the price of slabbed coins. Thus, your pocket book will dictate how many coins of what grade range make sense. So look for nice examples which fit the grades you're looking for, and pull the trigger ! With common date Saints, there isn't much price difference between MS63, 64, and 65 - but there is a major quality / eye appeal difference.
For resale: PCGS For purchase: Any TPG that is deemed unworthy that holds a coin that is right for the value
I agree with 900fine. 'How to grade US coins' is a good book for the 1st step in judging coins. I would go with PCGS. Just my preference. I have purchased a few from them. I dont like any tpg but PCGS is my lesser evil. As stated but the best coin you can afford from any tpg. Good luck. My double eagle days are far and few between now.
I would go with PCGS for the resell aspect also. Of course, look at every St. Gaudens in any holder and examine the coin to see if it holds the stated grade. You will find certain companies are more consistent then others, irregardless of what a dealer may tell you.
