Between ANACS, NGC and PCGS, are certain companies (generally) more critical with certain coin series?
I'm a novice when it comes to grades so I really have to depend on the opinion of TPGs. If you were buying an 09-S VDB is there a particular grader that you trust is the most "picky"?
PCGS would be the most conservative grading co. But, I would ignore what the Wheat is entombed in and focus on the coin. They (TPGs) all make mistakes or error in judgment. I would employ an "expert" in the Cu field and work with them to find a "PQ" example, if that is what you are looking for and willing to spend the extra $$$. EDIT: Or just ask a trusted, generous expert for their opinion.
I would prefer this route when looking for a "PQ" example in any series. Find someone who focuses primarily on said series rather than a TPG grader who dabbles in all series and sees/grade thousands of coins a day.
If you search for one on your own try turning the coin UPSIDE DOWN when examining it. I find that it focuses the eyes on the details and makes the eyes "work" harder. It helps one see the trees rather than a forest.
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