CACG coin grading is a full-service authentication, grading, and encapsulation solution launched in 2023 by Certified Acceptance Corporation Grading. It complements the Certified Acceptance Corporation’s (CAC) original role of verifying coins graded by services like PCGS and NGC, which it continues to do through its sticker program.
The Legacy of CAC Stickers
When CAC was founded in 2007, its mission was to raise the standard of numismatic quality by adding a second layer of grading to coins. It did so by implementing stringent grading criteria and rewarding those who met the criteria with a green or gold sticker on top of the slab. These stickers quickly became a mark of superior quality.
- Green CAC Sticker: Signifies that the coin is at the high end of its assigned grade. These coins typically sell for a 5% to 15% premium over comparable non-stickered coins, with rare examples fetching more.
- Gold CAC Sticker: Indicates the coin exceeds its assigned grade and has a high probability of receiving a green sticker at the next highest grade. Gold-stickered coins often command premiums approaching 80% to 90% of the next grade’s market value.
CAC stickers became colloquially known as “beans” and were celebrated for offering third-party quality assurance. Fewer than half of the submitted coins earned a green sticker, and the gold bean was applied even more scarcely.
Adding Slabs to CAC’s Body of Services
The success of CAC’s system laid the groundwork for a more robust iteration. As demand for full-service grading grew and as stickered coins continued to command significant premiums, CAC recognized the need to evolve. This shift marked a strategic addition to evaluating the work of others in certifying coins directly.
CAC began primary grading under CACG in October of 2023. It performs independent authentication, grading, and encapsulation without reliance on premier grading organizations like PCGS or NGC.
This evolution allows CAC to maintain its stringent quality control standards while providing a streamlined, transparent grading process. Collectors now have the option to submit raw coins directly to CACG for certification, eliminating the need for prior grading by another service.
Grading Methodology and Process
CACG employs the Sheldon Scale 70-point grading system ranging from Poor (1) to Perfect Mint State or Proof (70) like other grading organizations.
Detailed Grading Criteria
- Surface Preservation: Measures the wear, scratches, and abrasions found on the surface of a coin.
- Strike Quality: The strike quality of a coin refers to the sharpness and clarity of design elements.
- Eye Appeal: Eye appeal asses the overall visual harmony of a coin, including luster, toning, and color.
These criteria determine the numerical grade and the market appeal of the coin.
Submission Process
Submissions are accepted through authorized dealers, and members may make direct submissions. Getting a coin graded by CACG requires preparing the coin for shipping and including documentation like provenance, if you have it.
What are the Primary Differences Between CAC and CACG?
While CAC operates both grading and stickering systems, the services differ. CAC serves as a secondary grader, providing a layer of quality assurance that some buyers and sellers have come to rely on. In contrast, CACG offers full-service grading from the ground up, performing authentication, evaluation, and encapsulation in-house.
CAC vs. CACG: Key Differences
| Feature | CAC (Legacy) | CACG (Current) |
| Service Type | Sticker-based verification | Full independent grading |
| Evaluates Third-Party Slabs | Yes (PCGS/NGC only) | No |
| Sticker System | Green and Gold | None |
| Encapsulation | No | Yes |
| Submission Status | Active | Active |
While CAC stickers remain respected on PCGS and NGC holders, CACG-certified coins now represent the brand’s ongoing standard for quality.
CACG slabs are gaining traction in top-tier auctions such as Heritage and Stack’s Bowers. Price guides, including Greysheet and CDN, now recognize CACG grades in their listings. By moving beyond third-party verification, CACG now delivers end-to-end certification under the same trusted brand.
