Expert: PAPAJACK - 10/1/2009

Question
I have only started in the coin collecting hobby should I buy any particular coins graded by any services?

Answer
Hello Ari,                                   

You are doing the right thing buying them already in a slab. The coins graded by PCGS and NGC and even ANACS have retained the highest re-sale values. They are guaranteed authentic and guaranteed for the grade assigned by these companies. Just do not overpay for these coins  at auctions. I would not overbid on the coins if it were lesser grading service like NCS, SEGS, PCI etc.. They do not give the same guarantee as the first two. Also don't be afraid to bid on the ANACS graded coins, they too guarantee the coin and often sell at lower price levels than the other two.

And always buy the coin not the holder. If you don't like the way the coin looks even if it is graded 65 wait and get one more to your collecting taste. I have seen many graded MS64 that have more EYE-APPEAL than some MS65 coins. The grades are assigned on a technical level not always including eye appeal. I believe NGC includes a star * near the grade when it is more lustrous and bright, but this could have changed.

Please remember to go to the experts site to rate this answer. And check the nomination box on the rating page below any comments you may have.

Thank You and Good Luck

PapaJack