Finally, After 5+ Months: My Coin Grading Adventure

I’ve been practically glued to my mailbox since dropping off a coin submission at January’s FUN show. When that package finally showed up last week after more than five months, ripping it open felt like rediscovering buried treasure. That mix of relief and excitement? Totally worth the wait, and I can’t wait to walk you through what came back.

The Stars of the Show

Every coin in this batch had its own story, but the grades delivered some real plot twists. Here’s what made me grin:

• Ancient Greek Crab Coin: Nailed the grade I wanted, plus that sweet “Fine Style” bonus! I’m a sucker for how this design throws a crab, sea monster, and eagle into a feeding frenzy – ancient minting at its most lively.
• British 1797 “Cartwheel” 2 Pence: Holy grail moment! Expected AU50, but it rocketed to AU55+. That chunky beauty looks even better slabbed, though fair warning: I used NGC’s World Economy tier, which explains why it took ages.
• US $3 Gold Piece: Played it safe with a reholder of my existing AU58, but splurged on Photovision imaging. Doug Plascenscia’s photos? Chef’s kiss. For cornerstone coins like this, those extra bucks really pay off.

Hard-Won Submission Wisdom

After surviving this marathon, here’s what I’d tell my past self: First, if you’re using NGC’s World Economy tier, actually fill out the next of kin box. When waits stretch into “did I even submit these?” territory, it’s smart insurance – morbid but practical.

And about Photovision? That $15-20 upgrade transforms coins you care about. Whether you’re building an archive or prepping for sale, seeing your $3 gold shimmer like that? Pure magic.

Waiting Games and Workarounds

NGC’s backlog isn’t just talk – it reshaped how I collect. Hearing friends wait half a year for modern world coins? Yeah, I’ve started buying slabbed examples outright. Sometimes instant gratification beats the submission queue.

That “Fine Style” tag taught me something too: with ancients, artistic flair can trump wear. And my Cartwheel? Proof that well-loved classics still pack surprises. In today’s market, that patience pays dividends.

Closing the Book (For Now)

So, would I endure another five-month wait? You bet. These pieces anchor my collection differently now, and the whole ordeal taught me to plan submissions like a chess match. Honestly? It feels great to dive back in after life got hectic. Already eyeing my next submission pile – though next time, I’m triple-checking service tiers. Fellow collectors, remember: track everything, snap good photos, and savor the hunt. Keep stacking those stories!