Finally, After 5+ Months: My Coin Grading Triumph and Insights

I’ve been on pins and needles since dropping off a batch of coins at the 2025 FUN show back in January. Last week, after over five months of waiting, they finally landed on my doorstep. Was that agonizing wait worth it? You bet—holding those graded slabs made every second count. I’m thrilled to share the highlights and some hard-earned wisdom from this adventure.

The Greek Crab Coin: Ancient Beauty with a Bonus

My ancient Greek crab coin came back exactly as I’d hoped, hitting the grade I expected. The real kicker? NGC added that coveted “Fine Style” designation—always a sweet bonus on ancients. I’ve loved this type for ages. Just look at it: a massive crab, a Ketos sea monster snatching a fish, and an eagle grabbing a hare. It’s like a whole predator scene playing out on the metal! For us ancient coin folks, spotting these artistic details can turn a nice piece into something truly special. It really makes you stop and admire the craftsmanship.

The British 1797 “Cartwheel” 2 Pence: A Surprise Win

This chunky beauty stole the show and was the main reason for the long wait—I’d sent it under NGC’s World Economy tier. Honestly, I’d pegged it conservatively at AU50, but it blew past that with a grade that left me grinning ear to ear. The Cartwheel series, with its hefty feel and bold look, is a cornerstone of world coin collecting. This outcome proves even well-loved pieces can surprise you. But that marathon wait taught me one practical thing: if you’re using World Economy, fill in your next of kin on the form. Sounds morbid, I know, but with waits stretching past half a year, it’s just sensible planning to make sure your treasures find their way home.

The US $3 Gold Coin: No Shock, Just Satisfaction

My US $3 gold piece was a no-brainer—it was already in an old NGC AU58 slab. No grade changes expected. I just wanted a fresh holder and those sharp Photovision images. Doug Plascenscia over at NGC nailed it; the new photos are stunning. If you’re thinking about this for a key coin, Photovision is worth the extra cost, especially for insurance records or selling. This coin’s stability also reminded me: buying pre-slabbed coins in solid holders can be a smart move, skipping the grading queue altogether.

What I Learned From the Long Haul

Based on this five-month trek, here’s what I’d pass along to fellow collectors:

• Pick your service level carefully: Economy tiers save cash but cost you months. Save them for less urgent coins; use faster options for your top priorities.
• Get good photos: Always spring for Photovision or similar imaging on valuable pieces. It captures details that matter for value and is golden if disputes arise.
• Hang in there: NGC’s waits can test your sanity (even modern world coins get stuck!), but the results often make up for it. Use the time to hunt for new pieces or research your collection.
• Mix it up: Like my own mix of ancients, world coins, and US gold shows, variety keeps the hunt exciting. You never know what gems you’ll find in less-traveled areas.

Wrapping Up: Why the Wait Was Worth It

Looking back, this five-month saga only deepened my love for the hobby. Each coin whispers a story—from the ancient Greek drama frozen in metal to the sheer weight of the Cartwheel penny’s history. The grading process, slow as it was, added another layer to their tales. If you’re waiting on a submission, stay patient. Dive into research or chase down that next find. Because in coin collecting, the hunt and the history are just as rewarding as the slab itself. And yeah, I’m already scheming my next submission with all this in mind.