PCGS Coin Grading Process Video-Related Question/Hypothetical

SilverEagles92

In the video, it says that each coin is viewed by a minimum of two graders. If the first two graders do not agree, then the coin goes on to a third grader to break the tie.

What if grader #1 determined the coin to not be authentic? Does it even go to the second grader?

If it does go to the second grader, what if he determines the coin to be indeed a genuine coin? Does it go to the third grader?

Now, what if the third grader also determines the coin to be authentic? Is the opinion of the first grader immediately dismissed? What if, however small the possibility, the second and third grader both missed something that the first grader saw?

FLBuffaloHunter

I believe the first step in the coin grading process is determining wether the coin is authentic. This is done prior to the coin entering the grading room.

SilverEagles92

<< <i>I believe the first step in the coin grading process is determining wether the coin is authentic. This is done prior to the coin entering the grading room. >>



Not according to the video. It says that the first step in the grading process is determining whether the coin is authentic, by the grader. It then says that he goes on to grade the coin, but he determines whether it is authentic first.

CoinKing

<< <i>

<< <i>I believe the first step in the coin grading process is determining wether the coin is authentic. This is done prior to the coin entering the grading room. >>



Not according to the video. It says that the first step in the grading process is determining whether the coin is authentic, by the grader. It then says that he goes on to grade the coin, but he determines whether it is authentic first. >>




Authentication is part of the grading process and is a determination made by the grader...whenever possible. However, sometimes that determination cannot be made because of problems (such as harsh cleaning, surface alteration, environmental damage, etc.) that mask or cover the markers that are often used by the authenticators. Therefore, it is not safe to assume that a coin that has been body-bagged is automatically authentic.

Anything out of the ordinary that is uncovered during the grading process is investigated. In rare instances, a particular coin may be shown to all of the PCGS graders for their opinion and/or education in order to determine the final grade, especially when a new counterfeit or doctoring technique is discovered.

ricko

Thanks Ron... great explanation. Cheers, RickO

tahoe98

we just knew we could draw him to the boards! thanks ron!