Certification ?

Berry,

Good question. Top graders are like pornography (don't ever tell 'em that!!!) but you just know one when you see one. They stand head and shoulders above the crowd. They are universally recognized for their expertise and longevity. They are the Ted Williamses, the Henry Aarons, the Babe Ruths and the Ernie Bankses (hey, I'm a Cubs fan) of the coin industry. And most everyone would agree that there is no one as good, much less better, than Miles Standish, ANACS Senior Grader. ANACS is doubly blessed to have people like Tim Hargis, Randy Campbell, Mike Ellis, Andy Vickery and John Roberts who are known by insiders for their keen and consistent eye and years and years of experience and training.

How does one come to that level of respect and honor. It takes years of experience. As Ken Bressett, the editor of "The Red Book," has said, "Anyone can become a coin grader, all it takes is a sharp mind, a good eye, a good loupe and hundreds of thousands of coins to grade!"

If you are asking how to get started, I suggest starting with the ANA. They offer correspondence courses and DVDs on grading and Counterfeit Detection, and they also offer seminars and week-long classes on the same subject. You can't go wrong with them and, besides, you'll have lots of fun and meets lots of great people.

Good luck.

James