Does PCGS use an XRF Analyzer to ID the composition of some coins submitted to them?

Eclectic

I ask this question specifically for Patterns or coins of questionable authenticity.

I'm assuming they do have such a device on site, but you never know!

BStrauss3

Probably both NGC and PCGS... although the information is older...

In 2010 NGC offered it as a service ... http://www.ngccoin.com/news/viewarticle.aspx?IDArticle=1591

2011: http://www.pcgs.com/News/Pcgs-Introduces-Important-Measures-To-Combat-Counterfeiting - see the bit about Chinese coins:



<< <i>•All Chinese coins must be submitted through the Secure Plus service at the Economy service level or higher (no Modern). As part of Secure Plus, each coin is scanned, photographed, sniffed and subjected to a metal composition analysis. The metal testing is very helpful in detecting counterfeits. The availability of a photograph is also very effective in deterring counterfeiting. All valid certification numbers can be checked on our website. If there is a photograph (which is always the case for Secure Plus coins) the photograph will be displayed next to the coin information >>

Eclectic

Thanks