Accuracy of PCGS cert lookup valuation?

stevepk · February 15, 2013 3:13AM

How accurate is the PCGS cert lookup valuation? I know it's just a guide, so please don't reply with 'any price guide is just a guide'. I understand that an amazingly original eye-popping coin is going to be worth more than an overdipped and poorly struck coin despite having the same grade and that of twenty exmaples of a coin graded MS63, many will look entirely different and consequently will be worth more or less.

Considering the statement above, how accurate is the posted value on the PCGS cert lookup? I buy quality coins with average to superior eye appeal and try not to veer too far into esoteric material that no one is interested in.

I've noticed the value of some of my coins have gone up or down in value over time, more often than not, they have gone up over time according to the PCGS cert verificaiton valuation. Does this mean the value of my coins have increased over time, or are these values regarded as 'fantasy' prices that one could only dream for and published by an overly optimistic group?

LindeDad · February 15, 2013 3:16AM

I find most of the values to be real close to retail listed items for most classic coins. Now for the ones that I find to be off are most Seated material is low, and most of the moderns are so far off I don't bother looking at them.

s4ny · February 15, 2013 3:27AM

On average Ebay transactions are around 83% of the PCGS price guide.
Ebay coins tend to be in the bottom half of the grade for most PCGS and NGC graded coins.

Coins with a high bullion content like MS62 Saints and American Gold Eagles go for a higher percentage of the
PCGS price guide.

stevepk · February 15, 2013 3:30AM

I put together a type set with a strong focus on early 20th century and 19th century coins with a dabble in 18th century. Most are very solid for the grade and were carefully chosen. I question the accuracy of the cert verificaiton on US gold coins (Liberty Head and 20th century), Barber coinage, seated liberty coinage, and bust coinage.

Could I expect to realize the prices listed on the PCGS cert lookup by taking my time to find a a collector through the local coin club? Of couse, I will not rely on only one source. I will also refer to Heritage archieves, Ebay archieves, and the price I paid (I know I will hear plenty of criticism on that one!). I just want to know if the PCGS cert verification carries any weight in valuation.

If the values themselves are invalid, are the trends at least valid? If I notice my coin has increased in value 5% over the past 5 years according to the PCGS cert lookup, can I conclude my coin is now marketable by 5% more than it was 5 years ago?

stevepk · February 15, 2013 3:34AM

I don't know if this carries any weight, but my coins were purchased at coin shows rather than Ebay. I was able to hold each coin in my hand to view them from different angles and distances. I feel this gives the buyer a better representation of what his money is going towards and ultimately a nicer collection with fewer disappointments.

Accuracy of PCGS cert lookup valuation?

Comments

Leave a Comment