PCGS Pre-Grading Tool
Check Before You Submit
Free AI-powered pre-screening helps you avoid costly PCGS submissions that won't profit. Only send coins that will add value when certified.
Not affiliated with PCGS. Pre-grading estimate for educational purposes only.
Why Pre-Grade Before Submitting to PCGS?
PCGS is the gold standard—but not every coin should go to PCGS
The Problem
- • PCGS charges $35-$300+ per coin
- • Turnaround takes 2-6 weeks minimum
- • Many submissions don't add enough value
- • You can't undo a bad submission decision
- • Collectors often overestimate grades by 1-2 points
The Solution
- • Get instant grade estimates before paying PCGS
- • See if certification will add enough value (3X rule)
- • Avoid submitting coins that won't profit
- • Make data-driven submission decisions
- • Save hundreds in wasted grading fees
We Don't Replace PCGS—We Help You Use It Smarter
Pre-screening ensures you only submit coins that will benefit from official PCGS certification. This saves you money and makes every submission count.
PCGS Grading Costs (2025)
| Service Level | Cost Per Coin | Turnaround | Max Declared Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Value | $20 | 65 business days | $300 |
| Regular | $35 | 30 business days | $300 |
| Express | $75 | 10 business days | $2,500 |
| WalkThrough | $150 | 5 business days | $10,000 |
With total costs of $50-$70+ per coin, pre-screening becomes essential. Only submit coins that will add at least 3X the fee in certified value.
How PCGS Pre-Grading Works
4 steps to smarter PCGS submissions
Upload Coin Photos
Take clear photos of obverse and reverse. Our AI analyzes them using PCGS grading standards.
Get PCGS-Style Estimate
Receive grade estimate on the Sheldon scale, confidence score, and detailed surface analysis.
Review ROI Calculation
See estimated value increase from PCGS certification and whether it passes the 3X rule.
Submit to PCGS (Or Don't)
Make informed decision. Only submit coins that will profit from official PCGS certification.
Real PCGS Submission Scenarios
Submit to PCGS ✓
1909-S VDB Lincoln Cent - AI estimates VF-35
✓ Strong ROI: Authentication adds significant buyer confidence for key dates
Don't Submit ✗
2020 Quarter - AI estimates MS-64
✗ Bad ROI: Grading fee exceeds the value increase—you lose money
Submit to PCGS ✓
2021 Type 2 Silver Eagle - AI estimates MS-70
✓ Good ROI: MS-70 modern coins can be profitable if AI confidence is high
Choosing the Right PCGS Service Level
Use PCGS Value ($20)
Best for:
- • Common-date coins in high grade (MS-67+)
- • Modern bullion coins with MS-70 potential
- • When you're not in a rush (65 days)
- • Bulk submissions to save costs
Use PCGS Regular ($35)
Best for:
- • Most coins up to $300 value
- • Balance of cost and turnaround (30 days)
- • Semi-key dates in nice condition
- • Most collector submissions
Use PCGS Express ($75+)
Best for:
- • Higher-value coins ($300-$2,500+)
- • Time-sensitive sales or auctions
- • Key dates where faster service matters
- • When speed justifies the premium cost
Pro Tip
Use our pre-grading tool to estimate value BEFORE choosing service level. If the coin won't grade high enough to justify even the cheapest service, don't submit at all.
Pre-Screen Before Your Next PCGS Submission
Save hundreds in wasted fees. Only submit coins that will profit from PCGS certification.
Pre-Check My Coin FreeNot affiliated with PCGS • Free estimate tool