PCGS Submission Tracking Explained: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s walk through PCGS submission tracking together – I’ll show you exactly how it works step-by-step

I still remember staring at my first PCGS tracking page, completely lost between terms like ‘Being Imaged’ and ‘Encapsulation’. If you’re feeling that confusion now, don’t worry – we’ve all been there. This guide will walk you through each status update like a friend explaining the process over coffee.

PCGS Tracking 101: Your First Submission

What Exactly Are You Tracking?

Think of PCGS submission tracking as your personal roadmap for coins sent to grading. From the moment your package arrives until your coins come home in their protective holders, this system shows where your submission is in the process.

Why New Collectors Should Care

Tracking isn’t just for experts! Here’s why it matters when you’re starting out:

• You’ll know your coins are safe throughout the journey
• It helps you learn how grading services really work
• You can spot potential issues before they become problems

Your Coin’s Journey: From Mailbox to Return Shipment

1. They’ve Got Your Package!

The adventure begins when PCGS scans your submission form. You’ll typically see this update within 1-2 days of delivery. I always breathe easier once this status appears!

2. The Grading Begins

This is where experts examine your coins under special lights and magnification. Timing varies based on your service level:

• Regular service: About 3 weeks
• Express: 5-7 business days
• Walkthrough: Often same-day

3. The Quality Check

Many beginners get nervous here – I certainly did! After grading, a separate team verifies everything:

• Did the coin get the right grade?
• Is the attribution correct?
• Does the label show proper details?

‘What really happens during QA?’ – This was my biggest question too! Those extra 1-3 days feel long, but they’re making sure everything’s perfect.

4. Sealing the Deal

Your coins get their famous protective holders through a precise process:

• Choosing the right-sized capsule
• Secure sonically-welded sealing
• Final check for perfect protection

5. Photo Time

Here’s something I learned the hard way – coins are photographed after encapsulation! There’s good reason:

• Much safer handling in holders
• Consistent presentation in photos
• Faster workflow for the imaging team

These photos become part of PCGS’s permanent record and appear in their online verification tool.

6. Coming Home to You

The moment we all wait for! When status shows ‘Finalized’, your coins ship back with tracking info sent to your email. I still get excited seeing this update!

Clearing Up Common Tracking Confusions

Myth 1: Updates Happen Instantly

It’s tempting to refresh constantly, but here’s the reality:

• Updates often process overnight
• Some steps like QA might not show progress
• Human checks mean small delays

Myth 2: ‘Being Imaged’ Means Right Now

This status can be misleading. From my experience:

• It might mean photos are being processed
• Sometimes indicates quality checks on images
• Doesn’t always mean active photography

Myth 3: All Submissions Move the Same

Different service levels create different patterns:

• Walkthrough may show QA before imaging
• Economy submissions take longer between updates
• Bulk orders update in groups

Smart Tracking Tips for New Collectors

Timing Expectations

Here’s what I’ve learned from multiple submissions:

• Walkthrough: 2-5 business days
• Express: 5-10 business days
• Regular: 20-45 business days
• Economy: 45-90 business days

Status Relationships

Some steps always come in order:

• Imaging happens after encapsulation
• QA comes before finalization
• Grading finishes before attribution checks

Check Grades Online First

When status hits ‘Finalized’, immediately visit:

https://www.pcgs.com/cert

You’ll see grades and photos before the physical return – I always do this excited first look!

Solving Tracking Hiccups

Stuck on ‘Being Imaged’?

Don’t panic if this lasts a few days. If it persists:

• Wait 3 business days before worrying
• Contact PCGS after 5 days
• Check for system alerts

Missing Status Updates?

If stages seem to skip:

• Clear your browser cache
• Try a different device
• Wait a day before contacting support

Understanding Final Results

When grades appear:

• Green checks = success
• Red symbols = issues needing review
• Hover over icons for details

First-Timer Advice From Experience

Through trial and error, I’ve found:

• Snap screenshots at each status change
• Mark submission dates on your calendar
• Check PCGS forums for current timelines
• Download their mobile app for alerts

You’ve Got This!

With this knowledge, you’ll watch tracking updates like a seasoned collector. Remember:

• Statuses follow patterns with occasional variations
• Post-encapsulation imaging protects your coins
• QA exists to catch mistakes before they reach you

Soon you’ll be helping other beginners decode their PCGS tracking pages too!

Related Resources

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