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How long does it take PCGS to grade coins ?
Timbuk3
Posts: 11,658 ✭✭✭✭✭
They received my submission on 4/6/17. I haven't gotten any notice back. I'm not trying to be a wise guy or complain, just curious !!!
Thanks !!!
Timbuk3
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They are so far backed up , its not even funny
They received two orders from me on 4/5. One was done a week ago, and I have received the coins already. The other is still in process, I am thinking probably next week? My were regular orders both with varieties. They have a section on there page to give you a general idea.
Standard & Secure
U.S.
World
Express
8
10
Regular
24
23
Economy
30
22
Modern
24
20
President, Racine Numismatic Society 2013-2014; Variety Resource Dimes; See 6/8/12 CDN for my article on Winged Liberty Dimes; Ebay
I dropped off some coins today at a hotel nearby PCGS and I'll be able to pick them up at the Long Beach show in June.
Just had an economy with varieties order take just short of 2 months.
Regular submission with TrueViews received April 20, in process April 24, grades posted today. This was as a member's complimentary 8 submissions.
Gonna get me a $50 Octagonal someday. Some. Day.
Regular reconsideration service. I Nyerere into the system on 4/3.
12 coins. All IKEs
Still in process.
I don't understand how a regular with trueviews could be received 3 weeks "after" mine be processed and photographed and posted "before" mine.
Or is that just the way it is so suck it up?
The name is LEE!
...maybe all the IKE graders are too busy working their 2nd job as bank tellers
My grades just posted on my economy crossover after 45 business days. Very happy with the results, but wish their posted turnaround timeframes were actually accurate...
I have no idea. I was expecting my order by June given what others are experiencing.
Gonna get me a $50 Octagonal someday. Some. Day.
The orders don't seem to be FIFO by tier level.
BST transactions: dbldie55, jayPem, 78saen, UltraHighRelief, nibanny, liefgold, FallGuy, lkeigwin, mbogoman, Sandman70gt, keets, joeykoins, ianrussell (@GC), EagleEye, ThePennyLady, GRANDAM, Ilikecolor, Gluggo, okiedude, Voyageur, LJenkins11, fastfreddie, ms70, pursuitofliberty, ZoidMeister,Coin Finder, GotTheBug, edwardjulio, Coinnmore, Nickpatton, Namvet69,...
8.7 seconds per grader X three + a finalizer.
Just got a regular submission back. Took 12 biz Days to get the grade.
Sounds about right...once the coins get to the graders...
BST transactions: dbldie55, jayPem, 78saen, UltraHighRelief, nibanny, liefgold, FallGuy, lkeigwin, mbogoman, Sandman70gt, keets, joeykoins, ianrussell (@GC), EagleEye, ThePennyLady, GRANDAM, Ilikecolor, Gluggo, okiedude, Voyageur, LJenkins11, fastfreddie, ms70, pursuitofliberty, ZoidMeister,Coin Finder, GotTheBug, edwardjulio, Coinnmore, Nickpatton, Namvet69,...
a little over half a minute actually looking at the coins, the rest of the 20+ days is spent in limbo, moving around the facility and resting from time to time.
Just trying to figure out why the long waits...is it that PCGS is short on graders? And if not, where are all these coins coming from? Are there really that many raw classic coins out there that remain worthy of grading fees? Or is this all crack outs and re-submissions in search of the holy grail grade? Or is PCGS just covered-up in US Mint offerings and bullion so much that they have had to move graders from classics to moderns? Can these long waits be viewed by PCGS as a positive and well within the business model? Is PCGS making strides to shorten times?
Seriously, with the soft market I can't really understand what is going on. Discuss.
Joseph J. Singleton - First Superintendent of the U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega Georgia
Findley Ridge Collection
About Findley Ridge
Sent in two orders, one with raw coins, one with crossovers, that were marked as received March 16th. The raw coins were shipped back on April 7th. Still no update on the crossovers.
Sometimes it takes a while longer to figure out those crossovers (Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner for instance).
BST transactions: dbldie55, jayPem, 78saen, UltraHighRelief, nibanny, liefgold, FallGuy, lkeigwin, mbogoman, Sandman70gt, keets, joeykoins, ianrussell (@GC), EagleEye, ThePennyLady, GRANDAM, Ilikecolor, Gluggo, okiedude, Voyageur, LJenkins11, fastfreddie, ms70, pursuitofliberty, ZoidMeister,Coin Finder, GotTheBug, edwardjulio, Coinnmore, Nickpatton, Namvet69,...
This order was submitted with voucher. They go to the front of the line. Just one of the perks for paying for a Platinum Membership.
Keep checking statistics page which will give you approximate turn around times. I spoke with someone in customer service yesterday, who was previously unresponsive, on an attribution request by a customer where the order was done a week ago, but was told that the coins were graded in mid-April which leads me to believe various parts of the grading process could be more efficient.
Did not know that. Thanks for the info. My other recent submissions have all been within the expected days listed on the PCGS submission page, and they were not club/platinum submissions.
I think FIFO should be in order.
Gonna get me a $50 Octagonal someday. Some. Day.
Ah yes...another processing thread....
Maybe someone should go to PCGS and walk the process.... Just see what it entails...understand the backlog.... Or maybe, drink some wine and munch a couple of brownies while watching the sunset.... 
Cheers, RickO
A trip through the whole process would be interesting, but highly doubtful for "regular Janes and Joes". I would certainly volunteer for this excursion.
BST transactions: dbldie55, jayPem, 78saen, UltraHighRelief, nibanny, liefgold, FallGuy, lkeigwin, mbogoman, Sandman70gt, keets, joeykoins, ianrussell (@GC), EagleEye, ThePennyLady, GRANDAM, Ilikecolor, Gluggo, okiedude, Voyageur, LJenkins11, fastfreddie, ms70, pursuitofliberty, ZoidMeister,Coin Finder, GotTheBug, edwardjulio, Coinnmore, Nickpatton, Namvet69,...
Lots of disgruntled customers around here. It's pretty obvious that there is an ongoing problem here. Some make light of it but others do this for a living and are being hurt by poor communications and slow service. I am amazed at the number of different people who continue to bring this topic up. The problem is real and should be addressed.
Are there really that many raw classic coins out there that remain worthy of grading fees?
there are lots of reasons why there might be a backlog, classic raw coins would only be a part of that. everyone knows that Gold/Silver bullion takes graders out of the loop, the same for anytime the Mint releases anything. add into the mix that when PCGS has "on site" grading at shows things sort of stop at the factory. add holidays and weekends to slow things and it's understandable.
in a nutshell, there are plenty of reasons why things seem to come in faster than they go out.
it would be nice to see PCGS turn around quicker, but is it really feasible?? there are only so many graders to go around and only so much space that PCGS has under the roof. with most manufacturing operations there is a built in wait. I remember working at an aluminum foundry with a 37 week backlog. no one ever complained and the orders kept coming in. the situation at a TPG is a lot the same and a little different, but do we really want it to change??
I don't hear too many people complaining about PCGS' grading, just the time. if everyone got their coins back in two weeks I know what the complaining would be about --- over grading and coffin coins which either can't be sold or command lower prices.
I will ask again, do we really want that??
My regular submission received on 5/3 was graded a couple of days ago. Quite quick.
bob
Foreign coins especially the Asian sector are a huge part of grading now, without those and moderns the grading services would not be viable probably.
So I'm confused - If the man of the family "changes" would that make him Mrs. Kardashian ?
Bst transactions with: dimeman, oih82w8, mercurydimeguy, dunerlaw, Lakesammman, 2ltdjorn, MattTheRiley, dpvilla, drddm, CommemKing, Relaxn, Yorkshireman, Cucamongacoin, jtlee321, greencopper, coin22lover, coinfolio, lindedad, spummybum, Leeroybrown, flackthat, BryceM, Surfinxhi, VanHalen, astrorat, robkool, Wingsrule, PennyGuy, al410, Ilikecolor, Southcounty, Namvet69, Commemdude, oreville, Leebone, Rob41281, clarkbar04, cactusjack55, Collectorcoins, sniocsu, coin finder
Or do you call your dad, mom?
I have had a couple submissions where it takes a few days from USPS delivery, to unpacking and entry into the system as received.
You can see for yourself
PCGS, which started in 1985, has certified millions of coins in its history - making it the largest third party grading and authentication service in the world. In this brief video, we are going to show you how coins are graded at PCGS. We hope this overview will help answer your questions about the processing of your coins and provide insight into what PCGS is all about.
ITEMIZING OF PACKAGES
Once your package arrives here at our corporate headquarters your package is itemized, logged into our system and separated based on their service level marked on the outside of the package.
RECEIVING
Once the packages have been separated, each package is opened by priority of service and the coins are counted. The receiving step is one of the most crucial steps in the PCGS process.
After verifying the service level and payment, the identifying information is removed from the order and the submission is assigned a generic order number. Finally, all pertinent data is entered from the PCGS submission form, an email confirmation is sent out to the customer, and the coins are off to the next stage.
THE STICKER STAGE
The next step in the PCGS process is called the Sticker Stage. At this stage, the coins are counted again and labels are placed on the outside of each coin flip. The label or sticker assigned to each coin contains information including the order number and individual certification number - that is the same certification number that will appear on the PCGS label once the coin is graded. In addition, the information on each coin is stored and tracked in the PCGS database as it travels through the PCGS processes.
GRADING
The coins are now ready for grading. Each order is distributed to graders based on their particular skill and expertise. While the graders are generally trained to handle coins from virtually all eras, they are assigned coins based on their strengths. The sheer number of graders assigned to each coin can also vary depending on the type of coin submitted. In all cases, at minimum, 3-4 graders are assigned to every coin for grading and verification.
As each grader receives the order, they will enter the order number into the computer. This provides the contents of that order on the PCGS grading screen. Grader #1 will then enter his grade for the coin in question (and for each coin within the order until the order is completed) and close the order on his screen. Once Grader #1 has completed grading the order, the order is redistributed for Grader #2 to provide their grade and so forth. Each grader is not privy to the opinion of the other graders on any of the coins within that order.
If their grades match in the computer, the coin would then go to a 3rd grader at the Grading Verification Stage. If the opinion of the first two graders does not match, that coin will be assigned to a 3rd grader whose opinion is required to “break the tie.” As a PCGS standard, the coin would still be assigned to yet a 4th grader for verification to make sure the grade is accurate and consistent.
The actual grading process itself consists of a few steps. The first is determining whether the coin is authentic. With the values of some coins today, counterfeits are not uncommon.
Once the coin has been determined to be authentic, it is then checked for possible alterations.
Once the graders have determined the coin to be authentic and unaltered, the final step in the process is to assign a grade to the coin in question. Graders are now focusing on the characteristics of the coin such as the strength and quality of toning, strike, marks, luster, and overall eye-appeal. All these characteristics are taken into account when assigning a grade.
PCGS's 1-70 grading scale, with 70 being best, is universally accepted throughout the industry. PCGS's grading standards can be found on our website at www.pcgs.com. We highly recommend that submitters become familiar with those standards because your improved knowledge may help increase your chances of attaining the grade your hoping for.
LABELING
Once the grades have been assigned in the database, the PCGS labels are now generated and printed. By entering the order number into the system, our team can now print all of the crucial information for the PCGS label including the date, denomination, grade, variety if any, coin number, and the unique certification number mentioned earlier.
THE SEALING DEPARTMENT
Now that the PCGS labels have been printed, our sealing department is given the task of selecting the appropriate custom holders for each coin and then carefully placing the coin and PCGS label within the holder. Once the contents have been assembled, each coin is taken to the boom room where coins are sonically sealed in our tamper-evident holders. This sonic weld is strong and helps ensure this security feature on the PCGS holder.
GRADE VERIFICATION
After the coins have been sealed in the PCGS holders, they are then sent to the Grading Verification stage. As mentioned earlier, this is where another grader will check the orders for accuracy and consistency in relation to PCGS standards. If any of the coins do not appear to meet the standards, the coin is then removed from the holder and re-evaluated. If the coins appear to meet PCGS guidelines then they move on to the next stage.
MECHANICAL VERIFICATION
Now we arrive at the final quality control checkpoint where the order is reunited with the original submission form and each coin is matched against the paperwork. Additionally, the coins and holders are examined for defects such as scratched cases or improper information on the PCGS label that may have been overlooked in prior stages. Upon completion, the grades are posted and an email confirmation is sent to the customer with the grading results.
SHIPPING DEPARTMENT
We are now at the final stage in the PCGS process - the shipping department. Now PCGS's shipping staff will count the coins within the order once again to ensure that the coin count and submission form matches the information in our system.
Once this is completed, a staff member enters the shipping instructions into the computer, packages the order, prints a packing slip, and ships it back to the customer - who is eagerly awaiting their coins. Once the order is shipped from our facility, an email is generated automatically to alert the customer that the order is on the way.
CONCLUSION
That concludes our look at the PCGS grading process. We hope you enjoyed this inside look at the journey of a PCGS submission and, hopefully, this guide will help answer many commonly asked questions about our service. From all of us at PCGS; thanks for your continued support over the years.
Your support has made PCGS the preferred choice for collectors across the globe and the foundation of all great collections. For additional questions about PCGS, please visit other areas of our website at www.pcgs.com or call us toll-free at 1-800-447-8848 and ask to speak with one of our representatives.
I have a house painter that I always wait for because she is that good. Other painters are readily available but don't do as good a job so I am willing to wait.
When I submit coins to PCGS for grading, I am willing to wait.
“In matters of style, swim with the current; in matters of principle, stand like a rock." - Thomas Jefferson
My digital cameo album 1950-64 Cameos - take a look!
It must be hard to find qualified personnel. It looks like there is at least a two day delay on the lower tiers for order entry from receipt; then after the order is done, at least a day and sometimes 3 on shipping.
I sent a five coin economy that took just short of two months.
My YouTube Channel
thank you topographicoceans
now we know why they don't like other sticker operations.
I have determined the value of the coin is a major factor. The five figure coins got back much faster based on my experience. Cannot say I blame them.
My last 2 express orders:
Both received 5/10, one shipped 5/16, the other shipped 5/17.
About three to five seconds.
My latest submission, a regular submission, was entered into the system on 5/1, grades popped today. That's the second submission in a month that's taken less than 15 business days, so I'm just not seeing the delays some of you are.
I just got an early dollar back and it took almost 3 months. I feel the value of the coin has a lot to do with it.
I sent in a group under Regular a few weeks ago and they were done and shipped in 8 business days.
Andrew Blinkiewicz-Heritage
Recent two part submission;
1) sent in two variety attribution & reholder coins; rec'd 11 May, shipped back 22 May 2017
2) sent in four crossovers with variety attribution on three: rec'd 11 May, still waiting...but it's only been two weeks.
BST transactions: dbldie55, jayPem, 78saen, UltraHighRelief, nibanny, liefgold, FallGuy, lkeigwin, mbogoman, Sandman70gt, keets, joeykoins, ianrussell (@GC), EagleEye, ThePennyLady, GRANDAM, Ilikecolor, Gluggo, okiedude, Voyageur, LJenkins11, fastfreddie, ms70, pursuitofliberty, ZoidMeister,Coin Finder, GotTheBug, edwardjulio, Coinnmore, Nickpatton, Namvet69,...
My last economy submission was returned in approximately 45 business days.
My last regular submission was turned around in 24 days.
@keets said: "...a little over half a minute..."
Is there anyone here who has graded coins at PCGS or NGC who can give - say an actual time for grading a box of 5 1884-O BU dollars? That should go pretty fast.
PS I know for a fact that in the past, some TPGS held coins that were ready to ship out in order to encourage submitters to use the more expensive faster service tiers! That certainly couldn't be the case now!
It took them three days from the time I sent one in, to get back in my hand. I'm thinking the receiving department probably had it longer than the graders. Of course it was just under $200 cost, but worth it.
``https://ebay.us/m/KxolR5
Just had a 2 coin modern sub take exactly 10 business days. The modern tier as always been relatively friendly in terms of turnaround times to me.
I was told by a grader themself that they spend around 6 seconds grading each coin.
Wow! Thanks.
How would some people today survive if they were submitting back in 1988-1989 when the economy turn around times went up to as high as 4-6 months a couple of times? Somehow.....we were able to survive.
@roadrunner said:
But at least back then, there were viable alternative services (like NGC or old ANACS) so you could juggle services during peak demand. Today, the PCGS v. NGC/others distinction is so large that it isn't worthwhile to submit to the others anymore.
My First modern submission took 3 business days. The other few I've done have all been 10-12 business days. These are all in the past 2 months. Hope the trend continues.
If you take half the time it takes pcgs to grade your coins and then you double it you will have a working knowledge of how long it takes for the graders to grade your coins.