I am looking to buy a 1909s vdb Lincoln cent. I do not own any graded coins, and am seeking your opinions on which service may be better than others. Won't buy an uncertified coin since there seems to be lot of fakes out there. Thanks for your opinions
Although, PCGS and NGC would be my first two choices, ANACS would suffice. Please read before though.... By Jack D. Young. From the Dark Corner: A 1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent
It depends... Answer a few questions first: 1. Are you looking to add it to a Registry set? NGC, PCGS, and CACG have registries where you can compete. 2. What grade range are you looking for? Low circulated, mid-to-high circulated, UNC, or high grade? For any circulated coin, I'd feel confident with NGC, PCGS, CACG, ANACS, or ICG. 3. Do you have any other certified coins? For some, they want all of their coins in matching holders (I might be a little OCD on this front. The vast majority of my collection is NGC). 4. Are you looking to hold this for a very long time (maybe even pass it to your heirs), or is there a potential to sell in a few years? If there is a potential to sell, stick to NGC, PCGS, or CACG. Short answer - I can see no case where you go wrong with NGC, PCGS, or CACG. ANACS and ICG are reputable but generally less popular. If you can get a great deal on one of them, I guess go for it, but realize that ANACS and ICG will also be harder to sell for a good premium. In any case, make sure you're buying an accurately graded, problem free coin with great eye appeal. That will be a desirable coin in any of the top holders. And... to prove I have experience with what I'm talking about, we need pictures... Here's my NGC EF-40:
