Whether your old holder cracked or you think your coin deserves a better Sheldon grade, it is possible to have a coin re-slabbed and even re-graded. Re-slabbing, or re-encapsulation, involves retaining the same grade and sealing the coin in a new holder. It entails removing a coin from its holder and sending it to the grading service that has already evaluated it, such as PCGS (Professional Coin Grading Service) or NGC (Numismatic Guaranty Corporation). You may want to re-slab their coins to upgrade the holder or replace a damaged slab. While re-slabbing offers potential benefits, it also comes with potential risks that are important to weigh.
Reasons to Re-Slab a Coin
- Upgrading the Holder: Grading companies periodically release newer holders with advanced security and design features. Collectors may want to place their coins in the latest holder for added protection and presentation.
- Re-Grading: You may want to have your coin re-slabbed or re-graded to receive a higher grade, which could increase its market value. It is imperative to be aware that there is also a chance of a downgrade, where your coin receives a lower grade than it did initially, so this decision should be made carefully.
- Damaged Holder: Damaged or cracked encapsulation detracts from a coin’s visual appeal and provides less protection if it has been subject to high levels of wear. Re-slabbing helps restore the coin’s protection and presentation.
Potential Risks of Re-Slabbing
Re-slabbing isn’t without potential risks, and some collectors have encountered problems. Some things to be aware of before sending your coin in for re-slabbing include:
- Downgrade: This is only applicable for coins that are submitted for re-grading instead of re-slabbing alone. While some collectors submit a coin for re-grading in hopes of a better grade, the coin could receive a lower grade upon re-evaluation. Although holders preserve and protect a coin’s condition, if there were issues with the coin that the first round of grading missed, there is a chance that those issues will be noticed during a second grade.
- Resubmission Costs: Re-slabbing involves fees for re-encapsulation, shipping, and insurance, which can be substantial if the coin is of high value. For instance, re-slabbing PCGS-graded coins in a new Rarities holder comes at a cost of $300 per coin.
- Market Perception: Frequent re-slabbing may raise questions among potential buyers who are curious why a coin has been re-encapsulated. This can cast doubt on the coin’s true grade and condition. Furthermore, many collectors appreciate and admire the older holders since the slabs have evolved over the years, and older encapsulations are no longer used.
Tips to Protect Coins Before Re-Slabbing
If you plan to have a coin re-slabbed with PCGS or NGC, consider these practices:
Keep Your Coin in its Current Holder
- To prevent damage and handling issues between breaking a coin out of its holder and shipping it to a grading organization, keep it in its current holder and send it to NGC or PCGS.
Ship in Secure Packaging
- Protective Packaging: Ensure your holders are in secure packaging before shipping. Consider wrapping them in bubble wrap to cushion them from impact.
- Sturdy Boxes: Use a sturdy, well-sealed box to prevent damage from rough handling during transportation.
Follow Submission Guidelines
PCGS Submission Guidelines
- Follow all PCGS submission guidelines, including form submission.
- The coin must be in its PCGS holder.
- You must have a PCGS Collectors Club membership or submit your coin for re-slabbing through an authorized dealer.
- Include shipping and handling fees with your submission.
NGC Submission Guidelines
- Adhere to NGC’s submission requirements to avoid processing delays or issues.
- The coin must be in its NGC holder.
- You need to have an NGC membership or submit the coin through an authorized dealer.
- Include shipping and handling fees with your re-slab submission.
Insure Your Shipment
- PCGS and NGC recommend insuring your shipment for its full value to protect against any loss or damage during transit.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Coin Re-Slabbed?
Costs for Re-Slabbing PCGS Graded Coins
| Coin | Price per New Encapsulation |
| Coins valued up to $2,500 | $14 |
| Coins valued over $2.500 | $25 |
| Rarities | $300 |
Costs for Re-Slabbing NGC-Graded Coins
| Holder | Price per New Encapsulation |
| ReHolder for coins valued up to $10,000 | $14 |
| Scratch-Resistant Reholder for coins valued up to $10,000 | $18 |
| High Value ReHolder for coins valued over $10,000 | $50 |
| Oversize ReHolder (For coins over 45 mm, valued up to $10,000) | $20 |
| High Value Oversize ReHolder (For coins over 45 mm valued over $10,000) | $75 |
| Mega ReHolder for coins as large as 180 mm in diameter and 28 mm thick | $250 |
Re-slabbing can be beneficial when upgrading to more secure holders or when replacing damaged holders. If you have a specific coin you’re considering for re-slabbing, take these tips into account to ensure the best outcome.
