Whats the difference in value between certified and raw coins?
Certified coins are encapsulated in 2 x 2 inch plastic holders and hermetically sealed. These coins are rigidly held in inert, airtight holders and shielded from corrosive elements. Each coin’s assigned grade and coin number is listed in full view, along with a full view of the coin’s obverse and reverse. The grade is given by a grading service, such as PCGS, NGC, ICG, and ANACS. Certified are easy to buy and sell, either in person or site unseen. The certification of a coin is also a guarantee of authenticity, that it is a genuine, original coin. Raw coins, coins that often are stored in containers, boxes, glass jars, etc., routinely get damaged by contact with other coins, climate, chemical composition of the container, being mishandled, etc. Think of your pocket change. These are difficult to assign a standard grade, and they usually sell for less, because of the uncertainty in grading. In addition, there’s no proof or guarantee that the coin is genuine and wasn’t cleaned or whizzed
