Collector's Exam: My Personal Experience Sending Coins to NGC (Munich) for Grading

There are many myths surrounding the topic of grading (packaging coins in plastic slabs with the assignment of a preservation grade). Some consider it a lottery, while others are sure that this procedure is only for dealers with millions in turnover.

In this article, I will dispel these fears and tell you step by step how the process of sending coins to NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Company) by an individual looks like, how much it costs, and what nuances need to be taken into account when packaging.

Why is grading even needed?

Grading is not an attempt to artificially inflate the price of a coin, but a tool for clarity.

1. Objectivity: Grading translates the subjective "I think this is an excellent coin" into a language of numbers understandable to the entire market (Sheldon scale from 1 to 70).
2. Protection: A coin in a slab is protected from oxidation, drops, and accidental fingerprints.
3. Liquidity: It is easier to sell a graded coin remotely — the buyer is confident in its authenticity and condition.

Why NGC and why Munich?

The market recognizes two global standards — PCGS and NGC. For a collector located in Europe or having the opportunity to send a package through Europe, the NGC office in Munich (Germany) is the most logical choice.

• Logistics: Coins do not leave the European Union (if sent from the EU), which removes the headache with customs declarations.
• Transparency: The submission process is more friendly for a private individual than that of many competitors.

Step-by-step instructions: From registration to the post office

Surprisingly, the process turned out to be no more complicated than ordering from an online store, although it requires attentiveness.

Step 1. Registration and choice of membership

To send coins directly (without intermediaries), you need to become a member of the NGC club. On the NGC Europe website, I completed the standard registration and chose the Associate level.

• Tip: For the first trial shipment, there is no point in immediately buying expensive tariffs (Premium or Elite), designed for dealers with large volumes. The initial paid level is enough to get access to the services.

Step 2. Filling out the Submission Form

This is the "passport" of your order. A new application (Submission) is created in your personal account, where you need to specify:

1. Type of coins: (World, USA, Ancient).
2. Tariff (Tier): I chose Economy. It is suitable for coins worth up to 300 euros. This is not the fastest option (waiting can take 1–2 months), but the most cost-effective.
3. List of coins: Country, year, denomination and Insured value (Declared Value). This is an important point — the cost of insurance and compensation in case of loss depends on this amount.

After filling it out, the system generates a PDF file of the application. It needs to be printed in several copies: one remains with you, the rest are placed in the package.

Step 3. Correct packaging (Critically important!)

NGC requires strict standardization of packaging for the safety of coins. Mistakes are unacceptable here.

1. Individual holders: Coins are placed in non-adhesive holders (saflips/flips) measuring 63.5 x 63.5 mm.
2. No metal: It is strictly forbidden to use a stapler (staples can scratch the coin when removed).
3. No tape: Holders cannot be taped.
4. Marking: A sticker with the shipment number and the serial number of the coin in the list (Line number) is glued to each holder.
5. Fixation: Holders with coins are placed in a tight box or "sandwich" made of cardboard and pulled together with a rubber band so that they do not rub against each other.

Step 4. Sending and insurance

I used regular state mail (in my case, the Spanish Correos) with the option of tracking and insurance for the full value of the investment.

• Price of the issue: Sending a parcel with a declared value of 600 euros cost me 39 euros.

Economics of the process: How much does it cost?

Grading is a paid service, and the final price consists of several parameters:

1. NGC membership fee (Associate): 25 € (paid once a year). Gives the right to direct sending.
2. Grading (Economy Tariff): 23 € per coin. Total for 5 coins: 5 × 23 = 115 €.
3. Handling Fee: 10 € (fixed fee for processing one order).
4. Delivery to Munich: 39 € (Spanish Post, with insurance).
5. Return delivery: Paid later (usually around 25–30 € within the EU with insurance).

It is important to understand: at the stage of applying on the website, you do not pay for return delivery. The final invoice for return shipping is issued after the coins have been graded and are ready to be sent home.

What's happening now?

Now my coins are in Received status at the Munich office. The system works transparently: as soon as the package reaches the office, a mark appears in your personal account.

Now begins the stage of agonizing waiting. Grading is a school of patience. Coins pass through the hands of several experts, are photographed, and packaged in slabs.

In the second part of the article, I will tell you how this story ended:

• How long did the process really take?
• What grades did the coins receive?
• Was it worth the money spent?

Stay tuned for updates on the blog!