I have seen the expression, "Buy the coin, not the holder". Ok, I am a bit confused, which is not uncommon for me. Does this expression mean that I am wasting my money when I purchase a certified PCGS, etc. coin? My coin collection consists of mostly newer silver coins that are certified but I also collect uncertified raw older silver coins. The older certified coins are a bit out of my comfort zone because of the higher prices. Thanks for your help.
No, it merely means that you need to focus more on the coin than what the label says, because there are substandard coins in TPG holders too. The slab helps answer some questions like authenticity and grade, but is not necessarily an indicator of a good quality coin. Focus on the coin's attributes first and foremost, and learn to judge for yourself, is all that maxim is saying. Don't lean too heavily on what the holder says. But on the other hand, don't totally ignore it either. "Buy the coin and the holder," I say. The coin is what counts, naturally, but what a holder says is an important consideration as well.
I believe it means to do what you have been doing. Buy the coin that grabs your fancy regardless of what the label says.
