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Posted 01/07/2018 5:02 pm
If you're looking at classic US coins from the late 18th to early 19th centuries then I would definitely purchase coins encapsulated by one of the major TPG companies. No question about it imo. One thing not mentioned is these companies have been around for about 30 years. Many of the coins in the dates you're looking have been through their system already. If it's not in a holder then it's because it's either been in a long time collection or it was removed from the holder due to a details grade or some other reason. I'm always skeptical nowadays when I see a raw coin unless it's a very common date. It raises my antennae.
Another thing not mentioned is CAC. It might make sense for you to look at graded coins certified by CAC. They certify only the top A and B coins for the respective grade so you likely will be getting a quality coin. You'll know it's been certified by CAC if you see a small oval green sticker with their logo affixed on the slab. By looking at coins certified by CAC you'll also train your eye to know what to look for. There's a premium paid for these coins but to be honest it's probably best to pay a premium for a quality coin than to pay too much for something that has problems that you may not be aware of as you're learning.
Another thing not mentioned is CAC. It might make sense for you to look at graded coins certified by CAC. They certify only the top A and B coins for the respective grade so you likely will be getting a quality coin. You'll know it's been certified by CAC if you see a small oval green sticker with their logo affixed on the slab. By looking at coins certified by CAC you'll also train your eye to know what to look for. There's a premium paid for these coins but to be honest it's probably best to pay a premium for a quality coin than to pay too much for something that has problems that you may not be aware of as you're learning.
