- September 15, 2014
Professional Coin Grading Service has updated its experts' tips about what kinds of unattractively-toned, environmentally-damaged and other "problem" coins can be restored, and has reduced the evaluation fee for submitted coins that subsequently do not qualify for PCGS Restoration service (www.PCGS.com/restoration).
"If your coins suffer from some types of problem that detract from their natural beauty, PCGS Restoration may be able to help," said PCGS President Don Willis.
"Improper storage, accidental exposure to caustic elements or even the deliberate addition of foreign substances can detract from an otherwise beautiful coin. These problems often can be addressed by the skillful application of various non-invasive and industry-accepted techniques. Returning coins to their natural, original condition is the purpose of the PCGS Restoration service," explained Willis.
PCGS Restoration will remove contaminants that are determined to have been deliberately and artificially applied, including putty, grease and other substances used by "coin doctors." Restoration also will remove contaminants on the coin's surface caused by improper care or storage, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or verdigris. Recent fingerprints also can be removed.
"Restoration certainly works in many cases and can produce wonderful results on many coins. However, not all coins can be restored, so PCGS Restoration now has reduced its $25 examination fee to only $10 for submitted coins that are evaluated but do not qualify for restoration," Willis announced.
PCGS has updated its concise, helpful web page of tips to help collectors and dealers determine what coins are right for PCGS Restoration service: www.PCGS.com/restoration. To save time and money, collectors and dealers are encouraged to carefully read the information before submitting coins.
There also now is a link on that web page to a brief, introductory video about PCGS Restoration.
All coins restored through the PCGS Restoration service will be graded by PCGS. Once graded by PCGS they will be covered by the PCGS Guarantee of Authenticity and Grade.
"When done properly, professional restoration can enhance the appearance and value of many coins," said Willis.
Since its founding in 1986, Professional Coin Grading Service has authenticated, graded and certified over 29 million coins with a combined value of $29 billion. For additional information, visit www.PCGS.com or call PCGS Customer Service at (800) 447-8848.
Article provided by PCGS at www.pcgs.com