My PCGS Report Magazine Subscription Saga: Lessons Learned

As a coin collector always eager to stay informed, I recently subscribed to the PCGS Coin Report Magazine, only to face a series of challenges that taught me some valuable numismatic and practical lessons. Here’s my firsthand account of what happened and the insights I gained.

The Subscription Headache

Back in February, I signed up for a one-year PCGS Coin Report Magazine subscription, opting for snail mail delivery. Four months flew by with no magazine arriving, and my emails and calls to PCGS went unanswered. I started wondering if the publication had been discontinued, which left me frustrated as a collector relying on timely updates.

Thankfully, after some persistent follow-ups, I finally got a callback from a PCGS representative. They apologized for the oversight, issued me a credit, and set up a new subscription. This experience reminded me how crucial patience and persistence are when dealing with customer service in our hobby.

Discovering the New PCGS Insider

Through this ordeal, I learned that the Rare Coin Market Report has been discontinued. In its place is PCGS Insider, with the first issue launching in May/June. The new magazine shifts focus from market trends and price guides to in-depth articles on coins, series, designers, collectors, and rarity. As someone who values auction data over printed price lists, I find this refreshing—it emphasizes education and history, which are core to numismatic passion.

For collectors like us, this change means less emphasis on fleeting market reports and more on timeless content that deepens our appreciation of coinage.

Smart Subscription Strategies for Collectors

Based on what I’ve uncovered, here are some practical tips to avoid subscription pitfalls and protect your interests:

• Opt for Checks Over Credit Cards: I now prefer paying with checks for paper subscriptions to prevent auto-renewal hassles. If you must use a card, choose one with a short expiration date to limit exposure.
• Start with Short-Term Subscriptions: Always begin with the minimum term to test reliability before committing long-term, especially with new publications.
• Guard Against Fraud: Be wary of firms that might charge hidden fees or engage in harassment after getting your info. Since regulatory help can be spotty, it’s smart to monitor statements and avoid sharing unnecessary financial details.

Interestingly, merchants can sometimes track new card expiration dates, so stay vigilant to avoid unwanted charges.

In wrapping up, while my subscription journey had its bumps, it reinforced the importance of due diligence in our collecting pursuits. The content in PCGS Insider is worth the effort, offering rich insights that enhance our numismatic adventures.