OK, as I have said before...I am a coin collector who is rapidly getting interested in paper currency. One question I have is about TPGs. I know with coins there are two top tier TPGs (PCGS & NGC) and a couple middle tier...and well, the rest are a joke. Is this the same case with currency TPGs? Who are the reputible currency graders? Basically, who should I trust and who shouldn't I trust. I know the saying "don't buy the slab" but I want to know who the good one's are and who the SGS's are. Also, do they slab the notes in a hard plastic container like with coins, or are they usually in a soft plastic container?
I don't collect currency, but I believe the top 3 paper money TPG's are PCGS currency, PMG (NGC affiliate), and CGA
RichieB... DJ is correct. PMG may be a little higher regraded than PCGS but the majority of my notes are PMG and PCGS..I have quite a few CGA notes as well. When you start investing in moderate to expensive notes, I would go with one of the listed 3. Just as coins did back in the mid 80's, currency is just now getting reved up so to speak. The prices in the past 2 years alone have made my head spin! Always go for the best you can afford and when it comes to those special notes...some people do not like graded coins or notes and that is fine with me, I respect their choices. Do what you have the most faith in. Each of the 3 companies have their own slabbing method. I prefer PCGS and PGM as they tend to be more rigid of late. Regards, RickieB