PCGS Slabs – Hologram Sticker Outside the Holder?

alisson93

Hi everyone,

I recently picked up three PCGS-graded coins, and after a close inspection, I noticed something odd: the PCGS hologram sticker is applied on the outside of the slab, not embedded within the plastic like I’ve seen on other genuine holders.

As far as I understand, the hologram should be sealed inside the slab during production. Having it glued on the surface feels like a red flag, especially considering that some counterfeit slabs out there still use matching cert numbers and QR codes that check out on the PCGS website.

I've contacted PCGS support and sent them the cert numbers and details for verification. If they confirm the slabs are not authentic, I’ll be requesting a return from the seller.

Has anyone here encountered this before? Is there any known generation of authentic PCGS slabs where the hologram might appear externally? Would appreciate any insight.

https://www.pcgs.com/cert/36879044
https://www.pcgs.com/cert/35807117
https://www.pcgs.com/cert/36443191

Thanks in advance!

Vandaleak_Collection

The discussion here a few years ago around whether PCGS offered replacement hologram stickers suggests that they have always been on the outside: https://forums.collectors.com/discussion/1083174/do-pcgs-sell-hologram-stickers-to-replace-worn-ones

Hope this helps. I am by no means an expert!!

hummingbird_coins

I believe holograms are always put on the outside. Not sure why they don't just put them on the label itself, as that should eliminate the problem of peeling. Perhaps it's on purpose to increase reholder submissions.

alisson93

thanks for the response my friends, I really appreciate it!

coinbuf

@hummingbird_coins said:
I believe holograms are always put on the outside. Not sure why they don't just put them on the label itself, as that should eliminate the problem of peeling. Perhaps it's on purpose to increase reholder submissions.

It may have to do with adhesive outgassing inside the slab.