I have never sent a coin in to be slabbed so my question to all of you is what is your basis for determining whether a coin should be slabbed? Is it scarcity, grade, dollar value or something else all together? I have several coins that value over $200 but most are gold or key dates that the grade is AU or lower. I also have some that are MS but the value is less than $200 unless they hit 66 or higher. So to reiterate my question, when should I consider having them slabbed or keep them raw? All opinions are welcome and thanks for taking the time to reply.
I am sure you will get a variety of opinions - my opinion is grading will help you sell them. Other than that only get them graded if you want them graded and in a TPG slab. Also figure out if the coin is worth the $20 to $30 fee to get graded. Also be very sure of if they are cleaned or not. Just my opinion.
Like you, I have never submitted a coin for grading in my life, never needed to. But there are times when you should IMO. Those times would be key dates that are commonly altered if you don't have the confidence that you can detect them yourself. Other times would be if you are planning to sell for it makes them much easier to sell. You won't necessarily get a better price, although you might, but it definitely makes it easier. And in every case the cost to slab the coins, that includes all cost like slab fees, insurance, shipping etc - must be worth it. I'd never slab a coin worth less $150.
I have used all the slabbing services from time to time. As far as when to slab, it really depends. The reason I have done it is to assist my wife in the event of my untimely demise. The other reason would be if you wanted to sell on ebay or some other online venue.
I have never sent one in for slabbing but would if I thought it was undergraded , or was a key date or type that is frequently counterfieted or altered . rzage
If its a key date or a rare coin subject to forgery that you plan on selling, slabb it. If you think it may grade MS 66 or higher form a major grading service, go for it.
My comfort level is 10%. If it costs 10% or less of what you believe the coin is worth to have it slabbed, then it's a candidate for slabbing. I like slabbing for several reasons: - knowledge that the coin is authentic - added protection - an expert's opinion of the grade - better chance of the coin selling - better chance of getting a fair price And it helps you learn to grade. Grade the raw coin; send it in; compare when you get it back (also helps you learn about altered coins if you get it back in a body bag). I personally prefer slabbed coins.
Another point to factor in is price differential between the possible grades for that coin. For instance, if you have a coin that is on the XF/AU borderline and the price difference between XF and AU for that coin is $20, then it's not worth the money to have it slabbed. BUT, if the price difference between XF and AU is $200, then it might be worth the cost of slabbing. Add this in with the other points mentioned (valued at at least $200 or so, etc) and you should have a pretty good guideline as to when to slab.
Kanga pretty much summed up my beliefs. You may wish to look for another coin in the same grade or better that is already slabbed then sell yours. But in addition, I slab a coin when: 1. I know I'll be holding on to the coin for awhile and I want it protected. 2. I don't want to misplace the coin.
Thank you for your replies. All of you have given me alot to concider and I am better off with the knowledge.
