The Professional Numismatist Guild and The Industry Council For Tangible Assets (two highly respected numismatic organizations) in 2004 conducted a grading service survey of their members.

 The 12 categories were: 1. Accuracy of MS and Proof grade 2. Accuracy of Circulated Grade  3. Detecting altered, repaired etc.  4. Accuracy of Attributions  5. Accuracy of Grading Modern Coins  6. Consistency of Grading  7. Grading Guarantee  8. Marketplace Acceptance  9. Customer Service And Products  10. Collector Benefits Provided  11. Security of Certified Holder  12. Cost For Certification Services.

According to the PNG-ICTA 2004 Grading Service Survey, the weighted averages of various grading service companies were:

ACG - Unacceptable; ANACS - Average; ICG - Average; NGC - Superior; NTC - Unacceptable PCGS - Superior; PCI - Poor; SEGS - Poor

The 1st tier grading services ("superior" according to the survey) are NGC and PCGS.

The 2nd tier grading services ("average" according to the survey) are ANACS and ICG.

The 3rd tier grading services ("unacceptable" according to the survey) are ACG and NTC.

The 4th tier grading services ("poor" according to the survey) are PCI and SEGS.

Which would you rather have: an MS60 1909-SVDB 1c that was graded by the NGC or PCGS, or would you rather have an MS70 1909-SVDB 1c coin that was graded by ACG, NTC, PCI or SEGS?

Furthermore, even NGC or PCGS MS65 graded Coins: US , for example, can vary TREMENDOUSLY in value! Is the coin beautifully toned or brilliant or is it unattractively tarnished or dull looking? Is the coin well struck or is it an average or poorly struck coin? Is it a "low end" MS65 or a "high end" MS65 ("low end" MS65 is just slightly better than an MS64 and a "high end" MS65 is almost an MS66!)?

If my appearance reflected the number of times I have been burned, I would look like a pile of ashes! This is why I collect and sell beautiful REPLICAS of rare coins. I get a lot of enjoyment out of the hobby without putting serious money at risk.

Good luck and be careful out there!