PCGS and NGC Holder Changes: New Security Features for 2025

Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) and Numismatic Guaranty Company (NGC), the two dominant third-party coin authentication services, continue enhancing their holder security features to combat counterfeiting and holder tampering. Understanding these security measures helps collectors verify the authenticity of encapsulated coins.

PCGS Security Features

PCGS holders incorporate multiple layers of security that have evolved significantly since the company’s founding in 1986.

Current Generation Holders

The latest PCGS holders feature several authentication elements:

• Holographic Security Strip: A holographic strip runs along the holder’s left edge, displaying the PCGS logo and shield. This strip shifts color when tilted and proves extremely difficult to replicate.
• QR Code: Each holder displays a unique QR code linking directly to the PCGS Cert Verification database. Scanning this code confirms the certification number, grade, and coin description.
• Gold Shield Designation: Coins receiving the Gold Shield designation have been photographed in high resolution. These images provide a permanent record of the exact coin’s appearance at the time of grading.
• Ultrasonic Weld: PCGS holders use ultrasonic welding that creates a visible seam. Attempts to open the holder leave obvious evidence of tampering.

Verification Steps

To verify a PCGS holder:

1. Check the certification number at pcgs.com/cert
2. Compare the coin against any Gold Shield images available
3. Examine the holographic strip under different lighting angles
4. Inspect the holder seam for signs of tampering

NGC Security Features

NGC, founded in 1987, has developed its own sophisticated security measures across multiple holder types.

Standard NGC Holders

Current NGC encapsulation includes:

• EdgeView Holder: NGC’s patented EdgeView design allows examination of the coin’s edge through the holder, helping verify authenticity and detect alterations.
• Holographic Label: A holographic NGC logo appears on the label, featuring color-shifting properties visible under direct light.
• Certification Lookup: Each certification number corresponds to a database entry at ngccoin.com, displaying the coin’s specifications and any available images.
• Anti-Counterfeit Technology: NGC labels contain security features visible under UV light.

NGC Photo Service

NGC offers TrueView photography for an additional fee. These high-resolution images become part of the permanent certification record, providing definitive documentation of the coin’s appearance at grading.

Counterfeit Holder Warning Signs

Despite these security measures, counterfeit holders exist. Watch for these indicators:

• Fuzzy Holograms: Counterfeit holographic elements often appear less crisp than genuine versions.
• Font Inconsistencies: Label text may use incorrect fonts or spacing.
• Poor Plastic Quality: Counterfeit holders may show cloudiness, uneven thickness, or incorrect coloring.
• Database Mismatch: The certification number may not exist in the company’s database, or the database entry may describe a different coin.
• Seam Abnormalities: Look for glue residue, melted plastic, or uneven seam lines indicating tampering.

Recent Security Enhancements

Both services continue investing in holder security:

PCGS has expanded its Gold Shield imaging program and enhanced digital verification tools. The company’s smartphone app allows instant certification verification and image comparison.

NGC introduced updated holder designs with improved tamper-evident features. The company has also enhanced its online verification system with additional security checks.

What the Changes Mean for Collectors

These security improvements benefit collectors in several ways:

• Greater confidence when purchasing certified coins sight-unseen
• Easier detection of counterfeit holders and tampering attempts
• Permanent documentation through imaging services
• Mobile verification capabilities for coin shows and dealer visits

Crossover and Reholder Considerations

Both services offer crossover (submitting a competitor’s holder for grading) and reholder services (placing a coin in a new holder while maintaining its grade). When considering these options:

• Crossover attempts may result in a different grade or the coin being returned ungraded
• Reholder services place the coin in current-generation holders with updated security features
• Original holder generation can affect collector value for certain coins

Best Practices for Certification Verification

Before purchasing any certified coin:

1. Verify the certification number in the appropriate database
2. Compare the actual coin to any available certification images
3. Examine the holder physically for security features and tampering evidence
4. Consider the seller’s reputation and return policy
5. When in doubt, have the coin evaluated by a trusted dealer before completing the purchase

Third-party grading provides significant protection in the numismatic marketplace, but collectors must remain vigilant. Understanding holder security features and verification procedures allows buyers to transact with confidence while identifying potential problems before they become costly mistakes.