Collecting Certified Commemorative Coins

Commemorative coins are typically issued by the United States Mint within special presentation cases with an accompanying certificate of authenticity. Some collectors prefer to maintain their collection in this original packaging. Others will build sets of commemorative coins that have been encapsulated and graded by PCGS or NGC.

These third party grading companies will accept raw coins, authenticate them, assign a numerical grade, and encapsulate them in tamper resistant holders. There is competition for coins which receive the top grades. For uncirculated coins, the top grade is MS70. For proof coins, the highest grade is PCGS PR70DCAM or NGC PF 70 Ultra Cameo.


The image above shows the 1995-W Proof Torch Runner $5 Gold Coin encapsulated by PCGS. The insert on the holder includes an identification of the issue "Torch" and the numerical grade assigned "PR69DCAM". The other numbers indicate the PCGS coin number and a unique identification number that can be used to verify the certification.


NGC has graded the 1996-P Proof High Jump Silver Dollar as PF 69 Ultra Cameo. The insert similarly identifies the issue and presents a grade. A unique number above the bar code also allows the coins to be verified on the grading company website.


The 2009-P Lincoln Bicentennial Silver Dollar above has received the top grade of NGC MS 70. For commemorative coins issued within the past ten years or so, the majority of specimens will grade MS69 or MS70. Collectors pay a premium for the top grade. Earlier commemorative coins may be much more difficult to find in top grades and can command significant premiums.