Whats the difference in value between certified and raw/uncertified coins?
Certified coins are encapsulated in 2 x 2 inch plastic holders and hermetically sealed. These coins are rigidly held in inert, airtight holders and shielded from corrosive elements. Each coin’s assigned grade and coin number is listed in full view, along with a full view of the coin’s obverse and reverse. The grade is given by a grading service, such as PCGS, NGC, ICG, and ANACS. Certified coins are easy to buy and sell, either in person or site unseen, because certification is a guarantee of authenticity. Raw/uncertified coins are difficult to assign a standard grade, and they usually sell for less, because of the uncertainty in grading.
