A quick question. When a coin is submitted to, for the sake of simplicity, to either PCGS or NGC for their grading, do these companies take into to consideration the strength or weakness of the strike when they assign the numerical grade. May be a simple and stupid question but it would not be the first time. That is one reason I never try and say anything at work. A semi related question has anyone ever heard of anything half way decent about ACG coins. Thanks
My understanding is that the strike is considered but they let it slide a bit when a particular date/mintmark is known to have a weak strike. It isn't a stupid question, and you should never let anyone at work keep you from speaking up. Most of what passes for knowledge and leadership these days is bluff and assertiveness thinly disguised. Most other people are not smarter than you, just louder.
This is where it becomes important whether you grade based on wear alone or based on overall qualities. Strictly speaking, a weak strike is not wear. Just realized - that's theoretical grading, right there. Never thought it was possible!
Thanks group. Kind of what I thought. I was looking at a coin set that had one ACG coin in it. The rest were PCGS 64 and a couple of 65. I knew the ACG coin was more than likely a no no and another no. The seller described it as an "off brand". Even with the poor pictures provided for this coin, it sure looked off when compared to PCGS of the same grade (65) , what a shame. Even totally disregarding this key date coin, the price was/is tempting but I think I will pass. My finances and Job are fairly secure except for my retirement fund. Hopefully that will take care of itself eventually. Just finding it difficult to spend major bucks right now. Think I will invest in some good reference material and do some serious reading. I go now.:thumb:
From what i have learned, weak strike can play an impact on a grade given by PC or NG, but have seen a few coins with weak strikes that should have been downgraded.
The strength of a strike can sometimes affect the grade, but most times it definately reflects the price it brings at an auction. This is especially true for rare/ high dollar issues.
ACG grader below--they hired him after NNC fired him for grading too conservatively. Think his name is Chip.
I just got 30 rolls of early 50's decade Lincolns in, I will be able to post some good info on the strike variables and how they affect grades. Particulary the P mints...the 55-P rolls have some primos examples of weak, mid die state, and primo strikes. I will carry this thru the TPG grading procedure with all CT'ers Allow me the weekend for pics pre submission, we'll have a blast guessing.
