Coins That Are Not Encapsulated
There are several reasons why a coin cannot be graded or encapsulated by NGC. One of the most common of these relates to a coin’s authenticity. Another reason is that the coin has active surface residue, a topic that is covered in more detail here.
Coins that are either not genuine or altered will not be graded or encapsulated. They will be labeled as either “Not Genuine,” “Altered Date,” “Added Mintmark” or with a similar notation, as applicable, and returned raw. The full grading fee will apply.
A similar notation, “Altered Surfaces,” indicates a coin whose surfaces have been deceptively altered (for example, a “Mint State” coin is made to resemble a “Proof” coin). Coins with altered surface will be returned raw and the full grading fee will apply.
If NGC believes that a coin is likely not genuine but its research is inconclusive, the coin will be labeled “Questionable Authenticity” and not encapsulated. The grading fee will be refunded less a £5 processing fee.
There are also certain coin, token and medal types that are not accepted by NGC and will not be authenticated, graded or encapsulated. For a list of world coins not accepted by NGC, click here. A comprehensive list of accepted token and medal types appears on NGC’s website. For a list of coins that are not eligible for NGC Ancients, click here. Coins, tokens and medals that are not eligible for NGC certification will be labeled “Ineligible Type” and not encapsulated. The full grading fee will be refunded.
In rare instances, a coin that may normally be eligible for NGC certification will be returned not encapsulated with a label that says "No Opinion." This notation is used for coins that cannot be conclusively attributed, authenticated and/or graded due to their condition, a lack of available research or other factors. When a coin is labeled "No Opinion" the full grading fee will be refunded.
On occasion, NGC will not encapsulate a coin and return it with a label that says “Not Suitable for Certification.” This notation is used for coins that are severely damaged or otherwise impaired. The surfaces of these coins are such that it is impossible for NGC to even attempt to authenticate them or assign a grade. When a coin is determined to be “Not Suitable for Certification” the grading fee will be refunded less a £5 processing charge.
FAQs
Why do I need to pay the full grading fee if my coin is labeled “Not Genuine,” “Altered Date,” “Added Mintmark,” or with a similar notation?
NGC provides an expert opinion of a coin’s authenticity. If a coin is labeled “Not Genuine,” “Altered Date,” “Added Mintmark,” or with a similar notation, that determination has been reached as a result of NGC’s authentication process. There is at least as much, if not more, work involved in determining that a coin is not genuine or altered as there is in determining that a coin is genuine.
