Goldline
GOLDLINE INTERNATIONAL BUYS LARGEST U.S. LARGE SIZE COLLECTION!!! (OVER A 1,000 LARGE SIZE NOTES FROM MID TO LATE 1800'S)
Joe, 1. When Goldline decided to grade the Atlantic Collection notes, it chose CGC. 2. Independent grading offers a "second opinion" that is helpful when acquiring a note or coin. 3. Our clients appreciate the benefits of independent grading and CGC's protective holder. 4. Goldline was impressed with CGC's service, confidentiality, and professionalism. Thank you for all of your help with the Atlantic Collection. Mark Albarian President & CEO Goldline International, Inc.
Joe, 1. When Goldline decided to grade the Atlantic Collection notes, it chose CGC. 2. Independent grading offers a "second opinion" that is helpful when acquiring a note or coin. 3. Our clients appreciate the benefits of independent grading and CGC's protective holder. 4. Goldline was impressed with CGC's service, confidentiality, and professionalism. Thank you for all of your help with the Atlantic Collection. Mark Albarian President & CEO Goldline International, Inc.
TO: ANA / Governors
As along, very long, time collector of coins and currency and one who has suffered much angst over currency grading and the people who do the grading, I hope to now add my voice and concerns about the proposed ANA GRADING PROGRAM. I have always been a proponent of fair and objective grading standards backed up by a universal set of standards for all to follow. I am very distressed to hear that ANA is contemplating selling their sponsorship without addressing all the issues, thus, not creating a level playing field and the inclusion of all who qualify. Look at the travesty perpetrated by CGA. It's no secret that notes graded by this company have cost dealers and collectors a fortune. And even though the damage caused still reverberates, unsuspecting new buyers are without benefit of protection. The currency market is entering into a phase that is attracting many new collectors and investors. ANA has a responsibility to set standards and eliminate the abuses of the past. This can only be done by including all of the best minds that the hobby has to offer. I think I have a lot of credibility as an advanced collector of high grade type notes, all of which are 3rd party graded. And it is my opinion that the collecting community already knows more than they are given credit for. I cite Rick Parkers recent article in Coin World as the most informed assessment of the current grading situation. And I agree with him when he says that CGC Currency Grading & Certification has set the standard for the industry. In closing I would like to say that many of my collector and dealer associates share my sentiments.
Sincerely, Michael A. Savar
As along, very long, time collector of coins and currency and one who has suffered much angst over currency grading and the people who do the grading, I hope to now add my voice and concerns about the proposed ANA GRADING PROGRAM. I have always been a proponent of fair and objective grading standards backed up by a universal set of standards for all to follow. I am very distressed to hear that ANA is contemplating selling their sponsorship without addressing all the issues, thus, not creating a level playing field and the inclusion of all who qualify. Look at the travesty perpetrated by CGA. It's no secret that notes graded by this company have cost dealers and collectors a fortune. And even though the damage caused still reverberates, unsuspecting new buyers are without benefit of protection. The currency market is entering into a phase that is attracting many new collectors and investors. ANA has a responsibility to set standards and eliminate the abuses of the past. This can only be done by including all of the best minds that the hobby has to offer. I think I have a lot of credibility as an advanced collector of high grade type notes, all of which are 3rd party graded. And it is my opinion that the collecting community already knows more than they are given credit for. I cite Rick Parkers recent article in Coin World as the most informed assessment of the current grading situation. And I agree with him when he says that CGC Currency Grading & Certification has set the standard for the industry. In closing I would like to say that many of my collector and dealer associates share my sentiments.
Sincerely, Michael A. Savar
Dear Joe: Thank you for sending the book on paper money grading. It is a great addition to our library collection and we appreciate having a copy!
Nancy Green, Librarian of ANA
Nancy Green, Librarian of ANA
Filename: COIN World
Author: Rick Parker
Date: 06/03/06
I have run across a serious concern that affects all collectors/investors regarding paper money. I recently purchased a Friedberg No. 229 Series 1899 $1 silver
certificate that was originally graded by PCGS Currency as Gem New 66 Premium Paper Quality. The note was subsequently cut out and was found to have a
paper clip indentation, which has caused a bend through the design at the upper left corner when viewed from the face. From my experience and understanding, the
best grade this note could attain would be About Uncirculated 58PQ. The note was then returned to PCGS Currency for grading and was assigned a grade of 68PPQ!
At PCGS Currency’s website the grading standard for a Superb Gem New 68 is stated as: “A ‘68’ is basically as nice and as close to perfection as a ‘69,’ but a minor
fault may be present, including a tiny handling mark, an edge bump, or a very small counting crinkle. Otherwise, a ‘68’ will be flawless, with excellent centering, bold
colors, excellent eye appeal, and full originality. Despite the mention here of trivial flaws, one should remember that a ‘68’ is an essentially perfect note. It is the highest
grade that can reasonably be expected for many series, including most large size type notes.” Approximately a month ago, I purchased a Fr. No. 236 Series 1899 $1
silver certificate and a Fr. No. 2163-B* Series 1963A $100 Federal Reserve note that were originally graded by Paper Money Guaranty (a division of the Certified
Collectibles Group) as a 66 and 67 respectively. They, too, were subsequently cut out and the Fr. No. 236 was found to have what appears to be a stain, three pressed
out folds and an edge bend. The Fr. No. 2163-B* appears to have a corner and edge bend. Based on my experience and knowledge, the best grade they could
obtain would be an Extremely Fine 40PQ and 63 respectively. The notes were returned to PMG for grading. PMG recognized the stain on the second grading of the Fr.
No. 236 and assigned a grade of 64. The 2163-B* was graded again as a 67. Since PMG has no published grading standard, there was nothing with which to
compare. (PMG’s website has a chart of grades but does not describe the criteria for those grades.) As you can readily see there is a wide discrepancy on PCGS
Currency’s and PMG’s parts regarding the grades of the notes. I would have to assume that PCGS Currency and PMG do not maintain population reports as do
PCGS and Numismatic Guaranty Corp. with coins or they would have noted the original grades of the notes. Also, it’s hard for me to understand how a note can pass
through more than one grader’s hands and the flaws not be detected. As a result, the notes could be sold for an amount substantially higher than their true condition
would justify. This in turn could eventually affect the integrity of the hobby. In the June 2006 issue of Bank Note Reporter, Andrew Woodruff makes reference to the fact
that we, as a hobby, have ceased to be vigilant and have closed our eyes to the selling of processed notes, which reap substantial profits. If I’ve heard the renown
numismatist Q. David Bowers say it not only once but many times in the past, buy the coin, not the holder. This, too, can be applied to paper money. It’s hard to pass
off paper money other than in its true condition when notes have signatures such as serial numbers to track their history. Coins do not have that advantage. Woodruff
points out a significant example of a processed note that conceals its true condition and value. In March of 2005, a Series 1929 $5 national bank note (listed in article
as a 1929 $5 Type 1 note) was sold in a Lyn Knight Currency Auctions sale, Lot 1871, as Choice About Uncirculated. A year later the same note sold at another Knight
auction, Lot 1336, as a PMG 64. In between the two sales, Woodruff points out that the note had been processed by being “cleaned, pressed and its top edge trimmed
away to give it a straight top margin with sharp corners.” Naturally it realized a higher selling price. I would have to say that I don’t think we – as a hobby and fellow
collectors/investors – are ready to accept processed notes and hand over our money for a note other than one that is certified in its true condition. I
couldn’t agree more with Woodruff when he says: “We can no longer expect the PCDA or dealers in general to criticize any of the grading services. It would be bad for
business!” Collectors/investors can overcome this by paying close attention to the notes and choose a grading service that has tough, conservative and impeccable
written grading standards, along with the help of available population reports. Now is the time for the American Numismatic Association to step in and set up a board of
review and certification standards for third-party grading of paper money and coins. Then we can all have peace of mind and be secure in the knowledge of what we
are getting. This in no way is a bashing of PCGS Currency and PMG, but I feel as though their standards have been compromised and better controls need to be put in
place to keep this from occurring again. This issue is important enough that Coin World subscribers and readers should be informed and certainly are deserving of a need to know.
Author: Rick Parker
Date: 06/03/06
I have run across a serious concern that affects all collectors/investors regarding paper money. I recently purchased a Friedberg No. 229 Series 1899 $1 silver
certificate that was originally graded by PCGS Currency as Gem New 66 Premium Paper Quality. The note was subsequently cut out and was found to have a
paper clip indentation, which has caused a bend through the design at the upper left corner when viewed from the face. From my experience and understanding, the
best grade this note could attain would be About Uncirculated 58PQ. The note was then returned to PCGS Currency for grading and was assigned a grade of 68PPQ!
At PCGS Currency’s website the grading standard for a Superb Gem New 68 is stated as: “A ‘68’ is basically as nice and as close to perfection as a ‘69,’ but a minor
fault may be present, including a tiny handling mark, an edge bump, or a very small counting crinkle. Otherwise, a ‘68’ will be flawless, with excellent centering, bold
colors, excellent eye appeal, and full originality. Despite the mention here of trivial flaws, one should remember that a ‘68’ is an essentially perfect note. It is the highest
grade that can reasonably be expected for many series, including most large size type notes.” Approximately a month ago, I purchased a Fr. No. 236 Series 1899 $1
silver certificate and a Fr. No. 2163-B* Series 1963A $100 Federal Reserve note that were originally graded by Paper Money Guaranty (a division of the Certified
Collectibles Group) as a 66 and 67 respectively. They, too, were subsequently cut out and the Fr. No. 236 was found to have what appears to be a stain, three pressed
out folds and an edge bend. The Fr. No. 2163-B* appears to have a corner and edge bend. Based on my experience and knowledge, the best grade they could
obtain would be an Extremely Fine 40PQ and 63 respectively. The notes were returned to PMG for grading. PMG recognized the stain on the second grading of the Fr.
No. 236 and assigned a grade of 64. The 2163-B* was graded again as a 67. Since PMG has no published grading standard, there was nothing with which to
compare. (PMG’s website has a chart of grades but does not describe the criteria for those grades.) As you can readily see there is a wide discrepancy on PCGS
Currency’s and PMG’s parts regarding the grades of the notes. I would have to assume that PCGS Currency and PMG do not maintain population reports as do
PCGS and Numismatic Guaranty Corp. with coins or they would have noted the original grades of the notes. Also, it’s hard for me to understand how a note can pass
through more than one grader’s hands and the flaws not be detected. As a result, the notes could be sold for an amount substantially higher than their true condition
would justify. This in turn could eventually affect the integrity of the hobby. In the June 2006 issue of Bank Note Reporter, Andrew Woodruff makes reference to the fact
that we, as a hobby, have ceased to be vigilant and have closed our eyes to the selling of processed notes, which reap substantial profits. If I’ve heard the renown
numismatist Q. David Bowers say it not only once but many times in the past, buy the coin, not the holder. This, too, can be applied to paper money. It’s hard to pass
off paper money other than in its true condition when notes have signatures such as serial numbers to track their history. Coins do not have that advantage. Woodruff
points out a significant example of a processed note that conceals its true condition and value. In March of 2005, a Series 1929 $5 national bank note (listed in article
as a 1929 $5 Type 1 note) was sold in a Lyn Knight Currency Auctions sale, Lot 1871, as Choice About Uncirculated. A year later the same note sold at another Knight
auction, Lot 1336, as a PMG 64. In between the two sales, Woodruff points out that the note had been processed by being “cleaned, pressed and its top edge trimmed
away to give it a straight top margin with sharp corners.” Naturally it realized a higher selling price. I would have to say that I don’t think we – as a hobby and fellow
collectors/investors – are ready to accept processed notes and hand over our money for a note other than one that is certified in its true condition. I
couldn’t agree more with Woodruff when he says: “We can no longer expect the PCDA or dealers in general to criticize any of the grading services. It would be bad for
business!” Collectors/investors can overcome this by paying close attention to the notes and choose a grading service that has tough, conservative and impeccable
written grading standards, along with the help of available population reports. Now is the time for the American Numismatic Association to step in and set up a board of
review and certification standards for third-party grading of paper money and coins. Then we can all have peace of mind and be secure in the knowledge of what we
are getting. This in no way is a bashing of PCGS Currency and PMG, but I feel as though their standards have been compromised and better controls need to be put in
place to keep this from occurring again. This issue is important enough that Coin World subscribers and readers should be informed and certainly are deserving of a need to know.
Thanks Joe, hey by the way, I have spoken with Martin Gengerke several times by email and he has only high praises for CGC and its integrity. Off the record, he said that he has graded several notes as vf or ef and later seen them as XXX 63 or 64. He said to the best of his knowledge, he has never seen an over graded note in a CGC holder. Hopefully, in time, the marketplace will feel the same way. It will cost some people a great deal of pain and money to learn the hard way. Anyway, we will be in touch. Thanks, David Longinotti
In the August, 2005, issue of Bank Note Reporter, page 63, you state in your ad, and I quote, "PCGS Currency is the only currency grading service with written grading standards", end quote. I would be extremely careful in making statements like that that are false and misleading without a thorough investigation. Currency Grading and Certification, Inc., (CGC) has had published grading standards in place now for 5+ years. Check it out at http://www.currencygradingcertification.com/gradstand.htm
Rick Parker
Rick Parker
Boy, yesterday got an email from that Brian guy in California pushing PCGS grading service I replied to him that the bottom line-the very bottom line--is the quality of the notes (unaltered true original gem condition)and not the grade is what I am seeking. The price (although important and in fair market value) is secondary to the perfection I am seeking for my collection. I know that your CGC notes graded 66,67,68 (and 69) are far superior and "elite"to all those other ones in cga, pcgs,rcgs,etc maintaining the same grade values. Anyway, you've been doing this a long time and it is 1 of your true passions- and you're good at it-so keep it up. That's why your clients are loyal to you. Enjoy the weekend.
I believe (as do many of my friends who look at my collection) that your cgc notes will be the valuable ones down the road for a few reasons: a) the hard cases blows away the competitors in practicality and look wise. nothing even comes close! b) your standards being much stricter assures the collector of what he is buying and retaining the value of the note. c) the resale value will hold up/increase on cgc notes because of reason # 1 and reason #2. d) its only a matter of time before the smaller guys (who do less quality work) will bow out of the grading-especially when the grading standards deteriorate. Buyers may be gullable- but not stupid. eg: the cga67 brown seal (aooooo2) serial number with courtesy signatures has pinholes in it also...so one can only trust cgc notes.
Anyway, you have the right formula, right personality ,and right knowledge which earn peoples trust and they will come back and back over the years...i've dealt with mark (american eagle), trusted traditions, currency house, even panther, and they dont even come close to you. It's your drive (because you really love what you do) that is foremost noticable. Tomorrow, my friend Dennis will ring you in the afternoon to ask about his 1000 or so notes for grading .
take care, Richie
Anyway, you have the right formula, right personality ,and right knowledge which earn peoples trust and they will come back and back over the years...i've dealt with mark (american eagle), trusted traditions, currency house, even panther, and they dont even come close to you. It's your drive (because you really love what you do) that is foremost noticable. Tomorrow, my friend Dennis will ring you in the afternoon to ask about his 1000 or so notes for grading .
take care, Richie
This may be a better testimonial. Joe, I worked 20 years in Mechanical Engineering and like step by step verifiable methods of analysis. Your video on grading currency gave me just that. You simplified each step on the analysis of a note. You then showed the procedures and tools required do just that in a methodical manor.
Much Appreciated Ralph Scipione
Much Appreciated Ralph Scipione
Saving my Bacon!
Joe-The information provided on your CD "Graded Currency" was essential in helping me to evaluate the true approximate value of a large currency note which was advertised recently on e-bay. As a result, I saved thousands of dollars by not overbidding the item beyond it's true approximate value.
Thanks so much. John Ruben
Joe-The information provided on your CD "Graded Currency" was essential in helping me to evaluate the true approximate value of a large currency note which was advertised recently on e-bay. As a result, I saved thousands of dollars by not overbidding the item beyond it's true approximate value.
Thanks so much. John Ruben
Joe, we meant no disrespect towards you. We greatly appreciate having a grading service that is as accurate as yours. We also greatly appreciate the quick turn-around time for your grading; in fact, this is what really attracted us at first; then, we realized that your grades are very conservative and I truly believe that your service (with time) could become the standard of the hobby. We understand the turnaround time is usually much longer for you, but we only told our customers since you said that they were shipped out Monday night, and the packages are always here the next day. Anyway, I guess it will make it tomorrow; no harm done. Joe, please don't be upset with us, because we like your service and promote it very heavily here and at shows (we only buy CGC and never CGA); we intend to send a lot more notes in the very near future to be graded. In fact, this leads me to my next question; Is there any sort of price break (like PCGS does their coins) when a certain amount of notes is sent in for grading? If so, how many notes need to be sent and how do we handle that(call first, etc.)? Also, I noticed you sent the two orders together back to us; does this mean we get some sort of credit for future shipping charges (since we paid for two)? If not, it's no big deal! AGAIN, it's been a miserable two days of rain over here, and we apologize for being a little rude to you......please accept our apology. Thanks for everything, and will let you know when the package arrives. thanks again.
Thanks, Randy, Coin & Treasure
Thanks, Randy, Coin & Treasure
Thanks, Joe. CGC is going to be the standard. I am proud to know you! Thank you, Joe. Have a great Fourth of July weekend, and come back refreshed and ready to give Hell to the dishonest! I showed some of my collection to some friends today. They wanted to know why my CGC notes in VF and XF looked better than the CGA notes in AU and Unc! I think that about says it all. Dear Joe: I am now convinced that the bulk of notes for sale have been pressed, doctored or "played" with at some point during their lifetimes. That is why I pay greatly discounted prices for non-CGC notes these days. I have no confidence in CGA notes and find it hard to believe that they are innocently grading obviously doctored notes a many grades higher than reality. They are either incompetent, for which reason they should be shut down; or criminally culpable for fraud, for which they should be prosecuted. Some collectors gripe that CGC notes are costlier in the same grades as CGA or raw notes, but I counter that CGC notes are the grade stated and the prices reflect the actual rarity of high grade specimens. When I see a CGA note for sale with adjectives like "Finest Known", I just laugh.
Dave Russo
Dave Russo
Joe, you're amazing; the notes came in around 15 minutes after I emailed you; unbelievable turnaround time! Thanks a million for the great service. We will be sending some more in to be graded very shortly. Sincerely, Jon. C&T PS-thanks for the stands to display the holders; but I did not receive the display case you promised; I believe I could sell some if you send one to show everyone; be sure to include the prices also.
Jon Alderman
Jon Alderman
Hi Joe, Thank you for the article, I have received several emails from customers who read the article in your news letter, hope this will help other people not to be victims. I wish you happy holidays.
Regards, Sabry, Trusted Collections
Regards, Sabry, Trusted Collections
Joe Bissell I received my 10 grated notes today, and WOW they look so good!! you guys did a totally awesome job!! I can't believe how nice they look in your hard plastic cases, you guys totally blow away the competition, these notes will now be safe in an awesome hard case!! and your turn around time was great too, the packaging was done extremely well, and arrived here in great condition!! I have only one question, what does the 2 letters PQ mean after the grading #, I noticed some notes have it and some don't? thanks so much Joe Charles Reed ps: more notes will be on the way soon, I am in shock how awesome they look!!
Joe, Is the fun show in MD? If so where and for how long I found you from your grading I notice the name and typed it in and bingo found you. These people will do everything to keep people away from you because they feel they can grade the item and get a low price they can sell high earn more profit. Which by the way is great for them not for the original seller. The American way
Thanks Ivin
Thanks Ivin
Hi Joe I sent David M. some notes back (exchanged for others) because i didn't like the creases (he calls them "handling marks") in the high denoms--especially at the "cga 66" level. David claims that cgc is "too conservative" in their grading's.
…as usual, all your grading is perfect and these notes reflect that. unfortunately they are out of my league. but thanks for the offer. also, when are you going to put your census report on sale? for little guys like me!
Frank Lecadeau
Frank Lecadeau
Hi Joe, WOW, that was fast! I had no idea that I would get the notes back this fast. Everything looks good and it's nice to know CGC is out there. I hate the way CGA encases their notes; they need to follow your lead. CGC will be the number one bank note grading company for years to come.
All the best, James P. Craig
All the best, James P. Craig
Joe, I rcvd my notes on Saturday!! I cant say enough about the service your company has provided. I know that my notes are common and the grades are not as high as some I have seen on your web site but I would be interested in the market value and possibly sale by your company. Thanx again for the exceptional service,
Carl Tolar
Carl Tolar
Joe - I just now received this note from USPS - speedy delivery service. Again I must advise you I am impressed with your service and do appreciate the quick turnaround time (from last Tuesday to this Tuesday). I know it probably took several days for the item just to get to YOU! I probably should not tell you this directly, but you could have used a somewhat less expensive postal service to return the note to me. It just confirms the already high regard I have for you and your grading service Again, thanks, Joe for correcting an error in such a short space of time. My best wishes to your continue success.
Ken Ryan Merrillville, IN
Ken Ryan Merrillville, IN
Hi Joe, Thanks for all your help, you certainly, are a credit to the industry. I admire and respect you for helping me a novice collector but with all the passion and heart of many of your peers. I look forward to doing business with you and your firm in the future.
Hello Joe. I hope you are well. I have a question. Maybe you can help. Is there something going on at CGA lately, I know it's your competitor, but your the only one I feel I can turn to for some help. I have tried to contact them regarding an invoice that is two months late and it almost appears they have fallen off the face of the earth. No reply to three requests. I have noticed lately that their quality of service seems to be slipping also,(notes graded high that shouldn't) and foreign objects encapsulated with the note. I don't know what to do. I sure do appreciate the great service I get from CGC. I don't expect the same exemplary service from CGA, but this is getting ridiculous!...thanks I appreciate any help you can offer, ........BOB
Joe, I learned about your service through a dealer on e-Bay. As a collector and new seller on e-Bay, I was prepared to send some notes to CGA for review when a friend advised me to use your service instead. CGA was not portrayed in a positive light.
Pete Panagi
Pete Panagi
Hey Joe, By all means, feel free to use my email as a testimonial. I kinda feel honored now! as far as www.gradedcurrency.com, I visit that site almost daily just to look at the notes being offered. once I get some more money together, I might buy from you guys!
Take care, Brian Potter
Take care, Brian Potter
Hi, Over the past year or two I’ve had the same problems with CGA and RCGS--even to the extent of buying CGA68 and rcgs67 notes (EVEN A pcg 69 note!) that all were processed, pressed, cleaned, etc and had hidden folds-ultimately losing thousands of dollars in value going down to choice uncirculated PQ. Now, I only buy CGC for safety and reliability- in the long run- they'll hold their value much more. thanks.
Richie NY
Richie NY
Joe, I got the pop report today and I honestly don't know how I lived without it. I just looked up the 1886 $20 silver that I was bidding for in the central states sale that was described as an XF, but it was in your pop report as a VF (glad I didnt win that one for $11,500) I also found another one currently on ebay #3023133769 that is graded CGA F-15 but it is listed in your pop report as good. Do you think that is one to stay away from?
Jason Cobb
Jason Cobb
Unless it's too long, the eBay description listing that $1000 Phily was truly a testimonial, flattering your company extensively. You're welcome to use it and any other communications we've had. Joe: No need to send you this note after all. I was looking at the note at an angle to my overhead spot light this morning....and guess what I saw. Two other subtle folds. This note was folded in half, and then in half again at one point in its history. Someone did a nice job of pressing the other folds, although even I was able to spot it at the right angle of light. So it's going back tomorrow to Judy. Whew!!!! This is a tricky business. I used a mastercard to pay for this, so if she gives me a hard time, I should be able to contact the credit card company, who will then FORCE a refund. Thanks again for your help.
As always. Dr. Richard Rinzler
As always. Dr. Richard Rinzler
Dear C.G.C: I have acquired several notes that i would like to get graded and i think i have your form figured out, but i have a 1$ Series 2004 FRN that has no serial numbers and seal. So my question is how can i submit this and what do i put in the column for the serial number. I know that C.G.C reputation is second to none but how do i protect something that basically can't be identified. Thank you for your help in this matter and i am looking forward to doing business with you in the future.
Randy Williams
Randy Williams
Hello Joe Thanks for the email. Upon very close examination of my Gold Note I did find two of the three folds noted. They are so extremely faint that I only found them at just the right angle in window light. I have noticed over about the last year or so many CGA notes that I thought were over graded. Some time ago I purchased a 1928 $20 Gold Note graded CGA 63. I found two small tears on the top margin, a fold, and some handling. I wondered how that note made it into a Choice Unc 63 holder. I ended up selling it for a loss. I'm really a small size collector so I'm going to go through my whole collection and send some of the best ones in for grading to CGC. Hopefully they will fair better than the two large size notes I sent in. Again, thanks for your email and info.
Steve Torino
Steve Torino
Joe: Well, I learned about grading in a hurry. I just received my $1 Hawaii, $5 (1934A) Hawaii and my $20 Hawaii yesterday from CGC. My $1 Hawaii was a CGA67 that I thought would be a CGC66. It was a CGC 64. My $5 Hawaii was a CGA66 and came back a CGC58. My raw $20 Hawaii which I bought from XXX auction co., it came back a CGC58. I thought the $20 was a lock CGC64. Anyway, I want to let you know that I will only be buying CGC items going forward. It was a tough bullet to bite, but something that did not break the bank. Thank you for the lesson learned. One final thing, in your pamphlet you are selling a cherry wood display case . I would need one for my 1923 FR-40 in CGC67 (large note) and one for my $5 Hawaii in CGC65 (small note). How much are they? Thanks, David
Ebay listing
1935A "HAWAII" Silver Certificate Graded GEM Unc 65 CGC
This is a Monster Grade for this Rare Note...Look :) :) If you are not familiar with C.G.C., they are now the leading currency graders in the country. Visit there site at www.CGC.biz. They are recognized as the "most conservative" grading company. They encapsulate the notes in a specially designed hard case holder, similar to coins, and offer a "Grading Diagram" on the back of the holder to view the specifics about the note. I have a colection of graded high quality early small notes I will be auctioning off in the next three weeks or so. they range from Silver Certificates including the "R" and "S" experimental notes, Hawaii and North African to United States Notes. As an economic defense precaution against Japanese invasion and occupation of Hawaii, specially marked U.S. currency was issued there in July, 1942, to replace other types in circulation. Distinguished by brown seal and serial numbers, and by "HAWAII" overprints on face and back, such notes could have been declared worthless in the event large numbers of them were captured. This spectacular 1935A "HAWAII" Silver Certificate is FR#-2300, S/N S50154220C signed by Julian-Morgenthau. The note is crisp, clean with razor sharp edges and simply reigns of eye appeal. See the "Grading Diagram" on the reverse side that shows defects and you see "None" !!! The note has been awarded a "Monster" grade of GEM Unc 65. S/H/I is $6.00.
Best of luck!!
1935A "HAWAII" Silver Certificate Graded GEM Unc 65 CGC
This is a Monster Grade for this Rare Note...Look :) :) If you are not familiar with C.G.C., they are now the leading currency graders in the country. Visit there site at www.CGC.biz. They are recognized as the "most conservative" grading company. They encapsulate the notes in a specially designed hard case holder, similar to coins, and offer a "Grading Diagram" on the back of the holder to view the specifics about the note. I have a colection of graded high quality early small notes I will be auctioning off in the next three weeks or so. they range from Silver Certificates including the "R" and "S" experimental notes, Hawaii and North African to United States Notes. As an economic defense precaution against Japanese invasion and occupation of Hawaii, specially marked U.S. currency was issued there in July, 1942, to replace other types in circulation. Distinguished by brown seal and serial numbers, and by "HAWAII" overprints on face and back, such notes could have been declared worthless in the event large numbers of them were captured. This spectacular 1935A "HAWAII" Silver Certificate is FR#-2300, S/N S50154220C signed by Julian-Morgenthau. The note is crisp, clean with razor sharp edges and simply reigns of eye appeal. See the "Grading Diagram" on the reverse side that shows defects and you see "None" !!! The note has been awarded a "Monster" grade of GEM Unc 65. S/H/I is $6.00.
Best of luck!!
Thanks Joe. Eventually I'll have to convert it all to CGC slabs. I keep hearing how "conservative" CGC is from others. I don't see what the big deal is. I was a little skeptical at first, but then came to my senses. Again, your DVD says it all. Since you mentioned it, I look a little closer at other grading services notes. I can detect the notes that are overgraded. Typically the mid-range notes are easier for me to figure out. The upper deck takes a little more experience... Anyway, I'll help spread the word. I also like the fact that you grade MPC/ Fractional/ and World Currency. Have a good one!
Dave Robles
Dave Robles
I am a well-educated professional. I was a part-time coin collector until I went to the Long Beach Coin show in February 2005. The show opened my eyes to the opportunities that exist for investment and collecting in paper currency and started my education in the perils surrounding the inconsistency of the grading system used in the industry. I am the typical would-be currency collector of the future. I have knowledge about collecting and the desire to balance the quality and quantity of material collected and the financial recourses required to do so. I quickly realized that my own financial constraints would not allow me to collect top of the line GEM product and I settled on a strategy of collecting mid-grade (VF-AU) notes. My first priority was to maximize to amount of material collected while attempting to procure the most visual appealing notes. As a collector that might one day liquidate my collection, perceived value through visual appeal is a very important component to my strategy. But visual appeal takes a distant second to grading accuracy. Being new to this particular industry, I was amazed to see the total lack of a standardized grading system. One company will put a note in a holder and give it a GEM grade and price it accordingly, while another company would take the same exact note, grade it an XF and decrease the price dramatically. As an investor I would feel like the victim of fraud in I purchased the note at the higher grade only to have my investment downgraded given the fact that both of the companies who graded the note have the same knowledge of what constitutes a GEM note from an XF note. Understandably, grading is by nature subjective, however, there are some hard and fast rules that should be adopted. I use C.G.C. as my grading company due to the fact that I have a high level of confidence that the grade put on the note is a fair and accurate representation as to the quality of the note. C.G.C. is referred to as conservative and strict. I would refer to the other companies as overly optimistic and somewhat inconsistent. True value is an amount agreed to by a willing buyer and willing seller absent undue influence. In my opinion, inconsistent grading constitutes undue influence. It would seem logical that the elimination of as many variables as is possible in the grading system would help simplify the valuation process and by extension the decision making process of the investor. If the industry were to adopt strict standard grading guidelines (which I hear already exists and are for the most part ignored, except by C.G.C.) and the A.N.A. were to enforce ethical and or disciplinary measures on the members of its association to ensure compliance with those guidelines, it would help create a less complicated process by which a new collector/investor could make reasonable investment decisions without the fear that the grade on the note being purchased might not be accurate and subject to devaluation. This, in my opinion, should be the primary reason for the existence of companies such as the A.N.A. It’s purpose should be to endeavor to assure a less knowledgeable individual that the Association if looking out for his or her interest as well as the industry as a whole by issuing and promoting standardized guidelines. I have personally invested a great deal of money and have built a nice collection and I believe that without the education and guidance I received from C.G.C. my efforts to build that collection would have suffered greatly, both esthetically and financially.
Eric Hannah
Eric Hannah
Joe, First let me say that you have impeccable credentials and an expert grading service. Your company has graded several notes for me already and I have been pleased with the service and level of professionalism of the whole experience. Secondly, I have a couple of notes that I am looking to sell and noticed your ever increasing list of bills on your web site. What do you need from me to list the notes? How do I receive the proceeds upon completion of the sale? Basically, how does it work? > Thank you, Bryon Frick
Dear Joe, Thank you for the presentation box it really sets off that $20 note. The note is even nicer than I had imagined...... As always I will only buy CGC graded notes for my utmost confidence and the high grading standard which is unmatched.
As an exclusive collector of CGC graded notes, it is my pleasure to share my experiences in dealing with CGC and Joe Bissell. Let's start with Joe! Joe is recognized as one of the leading experts in the currency industry today. He is often published and his "Goldsheet" is the cornerstone used in determining current note values. More importantly, Joe's word, integrity and service are second to none! I have purchased 20 notes from Joe including some of the finest known.
Every transaction has gone flawlessly...and I mean FLAWLESSLY! The quality of the notes I have purchased from Joe have been absolutely perfect and more importantly...MATCH THE GRADE SHOWN ON THE HOLDER! Now for CGC...all of you have heard the following cliches... "Let the buyer beware" and "If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is". In the currency marketplace these cliches are the absolute truth. My first big note purchase was a GEM Bison in a holder from another grading service. I was so pleased, not only did I have a GEM Bison, I had paid $2000 less for it than it was worth.
Time passes and I begin to hear bad things about the seller and even more about the grading service he employed. Long story short...I ended up with a Bison that had multiple folds pressed out and a pin hole repaired! Instead of paying $2000 less than I should have...I PAID TWICE WHAT THE NOTE WAS WORTH. Unfortunately, there are many collectors out there that also think they have "Gem's" locked away...and DON'T! We all know the good notes are getting scarcer by the day and now suddenly there are several GEM notes that were sold in previous auctions and AU holders? Notes have serial numbers...there is no doubt where they have been and what their previous grades were. When you buy a CGC graded note, you can be assured you are getting what you are paying for and the note is graded properly.
CGC has the reputation in the industry as the strictest grading service out there and they are! The GEM notes I now have in my collection are real GEM notes and my investments are appreciating in value...thank you Joe! If your considering buying a note or several notes...DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Buy from a reputable seller and more importantly...BUY FROM A REPUTABLE AND ACCURATE GRADING COMPANY.
For me, that is CGC and Joe Bissell!
Bob Capps Hutchinson, KS
Every transaction has gone flawlessly...and I mean FLAWLESSLY! The quality of the notes I have purchased from Joe have been absolutely perfect and more importantly...MATCH THE GRADE SHOWN ON THE HOLDER! Now for CGC...all of you have heard the following cliches... "Let the buyer beware" and "If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is". In the currency marketplace these cliches are the absolute truth. My first big note purchase was a GEM Bison in a holder from another grading service. I was so pleased, not only did I have a GEM Bison, I had paid $2000 less for it than it was worth.
Time passes and I begin to hear bad things about the seller and even more about the grading service he employed. Long story short...I ended up with a Bison that had multiple folds pressed out and a pin hole repaired! Instead of paying $2000 less than I should have...I PAID TWICE WHAT THE NOTE WAS WORTH. Unfortunately, there are many collectors out there that also think they have "Gem's" locked away...and DON'T! We all know the good notes are getting scarcer by the day and now suddenly there are several GEM notes that were sold in previous auctions and AU holders? Notes have serial numbers...there is no doubt where they have been and what their previous grades were. When you buy a CGC graded note, you can be assured you are getting what you are paying for and the note is graded properly.
CGC has the reputation in the industry as the strictest grading service out there and they are! The GEM notes I now have in my collection are real GEM notes and my investments are appreciating in value...thank you Joe! If your considering buying a note or several notes...DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Buy from a reputable seller and more importantly...BUY FROM A REPUTABLE AND ACCURATE GRADING COMPANY.
For me, that is CGC and Joe Bissell!
Bob Capps Hutchinson, KS
Thanks Joe. I got those notes. Thanks for fast delivery. I really love the Chief note. It's truly beautiful. I'm always satisfy when buy notes from you. Again thanks, Brandon Saving my Bacon! Joe-The information provided on your CD "Graded Currency" was essential in helping me to evaluate the true approximate value of a large currency note which was advertised recently on e-bay. As a result, I saved thousands of dollars by not overbidding the item beyond it's true approximate value. Thanks so much. John Ruben
Original Message ----- From: Charles To: Joe Bissell
Subject: thanks again for the fast turn around time
Joe, Thanks again for getting my order of 20 done so fast, unfortunately I am disappointed my 1934 $500 graded so low, I do believe your grading standards are the truth, so I e mailed CGA asking for a response to how they graded a note with pressed folds so high when it doesn't deserve it. Here is a copy of my e mail to CGA, and their response about you guys
CGA, > >My name is Charles, I recently purchased a CGA 65 1934 $500 off E bay, scan >of the note enclosed, I paid allot of money for this note because of its >high grade, I sent it off to CGC to have it graded and put in their hard >plastic cases, I felt their hard case would keep it more safe, but to my >disbelief they only graded it a CGC 45, WOW, I have lost allot of money on >this note now, they said it had a centerfold & horizontal fold (pressed), >how is it a note like this grades so high with you? do you guys check for >these things? I can't believe you graded it so high, when it really grades >so low, this is a big disappointment to your grading company, and my >confidence in buying your graded notes, can you explain how you graded it >so high? and why CGC grades it only a 45? if a note has folds its not near >a 65 > >Charles Reed Joe, here is CGA's response back to me its not much. Charles; Our competitor is infamous for severely under jgrading. Please resubmit the note to us, we will most likely recertify the note at our original grade. Jess Lipka Joe, because I don't have confidence in CGA notes, rest assure I will only send my notes for grading to you. Do you know any where I can find un graded notes that reflect the price of not being graded other than e bay?? as I accumulate more notes I will send them to you. I refuse to pay a premium for notes with a high CGA grading, knowing it can't be trusted, I appreciate any suggestions you may have for me being a new currency investor on where I can find notes mostly higher denomination, Sorry for taking up your valuable time Joe
~ ~ Charles Reed
Joe, Thanks again for getting my order of 20 done so fast, unfortunately I am disappointed my 1934 $500 graded so low, I do believe your grading standards are the truth, so I e mailed CGA asking for a response to how they graded a note with pressed folds so high when it doesn't deserve it. Here is a copy of my e mail to CGA, and their response about you guys
CGA, > >My name is Charles, I recently purchased a CGA 65 1934 $500 off E bay, scan >of the note enclosed, I paid allot of money for this note because of its >high grade, I sent it off to CGC to have it graded and put in their hard >plastic cases, I felt their hard case would keep it more safe, but to my >disbelief they only graded it a CGC 45, WOW, I have lost allot of money on >this note now, they said it had a centerfold & horizontal fold (pressed), >how is it a note like this grades so high with you? do you guys check for >these things? I can't believe you graded it so high, when it really grades >so low, this is a big disappointment to your grading company, and my >confidence in buying your graded notes, can you explain how you graded it >so high? and why CGC grades it only a 45? if a note has folds its not near >a 65 > >Charles Reed Joe, here is CGA's response back to me its not much. Charles; Our competitor is infamous for severely under jgrading. Please resubmit the note to us, we will most likely recertify the note at our original grade. Jess Lipka Joe, because I don't have confidence in CGA notes, rest assure I will only send my notes for grading to you. Do you know any where I can find un graded notes that reflect the price of not being graded other than e bay?? as I accumulate more notes I will send them to you. I refuse to pay a premium for notes with a high CGA grading, knowing it can't be trusted, I appreciate any suggestions you may have for me being a new currency investor on where I can find notes mostly higher denomination, Sorry for taking up your valuable time Joe
~ ~ Charles Reed
These are my personal honest thoughts
If you want notes graded XTRMLY over graded fashion ....
The grading companies that are listed first and that are on the top of the list, are the more liberal, care free,
The last two companies listed are the more professional, more accurate, more conservative grading companies in the market place today.
Again these are just my observations and thoughts.
CEC.. they always grade everything a "70" CGA ... Their "69" grades are always somebodyelse "58" or lower RCGA ... Another over grader - I never see any low grades on anything they grade PCGS ... I had numerous graded notes from this company only to be graded lower by the more conservative grading companies.
#2 .. Collector never knows what size the holder will be when he gets the note back from this company. They have many many different sizes to pick and choose from ... they pick for you. This business model creates a burden on the collector in the storing all the different sizes of holders. It's not enough for us to decide what we want to buy next, how much money should be paid for a note, now .. I have all these different size holders. What a pain in the butt. PMG ... EVERY time I take a graded note to PMG for a cross over that "other" graded note ALWAYS comes in at a lower grade. PMG holders are rigid and protect the note very well. And the PMG holders are all the same size ... meaning ... Storage of PMG graded notes are not a hassle. Their holders are not some wet noodle, flimsy willy nilly. I've been collecting notes for 4 years and PMG has always been my favorite grading company. I'd rather have my collection conservative graded notes ... any day. In the event that my wife is left with our collection, at least value is still there. Some auctions and auction house no longer allow some of the more liberal graded notes into their auctions. They do not want the financial hassles, lawsuits, refunds, pissed buyers etc. And now ... for the #1 Grading company C G C ... Extremely conservative in the grading process. Not only Conservative in their grading principles, they provided me a diagram of where the flaws were on each and every note they graded for me. I was a lil ... aw man ... when I got my notes back. I thought I had 70 all across the board ... but then again we all do ... right? I looked at the diagrams, then looked at my notes ... hell I can't see a thing. So I got me coke bottle eyeglasses, put 3 magnify glasses ,,, and low and behold there were the folds ... WOW! Not that is integrity, both hands on top of the table and being truthful. No greed at C G C. Just honesty, truthfulness and keeping the hobby to a higher standard. I have a CGC 58 PQ $2 ED ... that, if a LIBERAL grading company were to get ahold of this note - they'd slab this note in a 65 or higher and sell for 3 times the money. Again ... more greed. Those over graded notes in the market, on the BOURSE floor, and in Major online auctions is where buyers get robbed by over jealous, greedy, shady dealers. Greed C G C holders are crystal clear ... meaning there is no tint & no trace of a hue of color in their holders. When you hold a C G C grade note in your hand, the note POPS out at you ... you can clearly see the note. After all ... that is one of the things that we collectors want .. is to be able to look upon the great art work that has been created on some these large notes. We all love the front & back of $5 Eds, the back of the large 1914 $100 with the 5 figures ... we all love the art. And in a C G C crystal clear holder, the notes not just look better, the grading is true. Very serious about having CGC reholder my entire 300 note collection. My wife thinks I should sell off 200 of them .. she thinks I have too many .... But that is another story ...... Dennis Mong harleyphatboy Sunday ... 10/12/2010 ... 11:00 AM Sunny Clear Skies - Central Florida
CEC.. they always grade everything a "70" CGA ... Their "69" grades are always somebodyelse "58" or lower RCGA ... Another over grader - I never see any low grades on anything they grade PCGS ... I had numerous graded notes from this company only to be graded lower by the more conservative grading companies.
#2 .. Collector never knows what size the holder will be when he gets the note back from this company. They have many many different sizes to pick and choose from ... they pick for you. This business model creates a burden on the collector in the storing all the different sizes of holders. It's not enough for us to decide what we want to buy next, how much money should be paid for a note, now .. I have all these different size holders. What a pain in the butt. PMG ... EVERY time I take a graded note to PMG for a cross over that "other" graded note ALWAYS comes in at a lower grade. PMG holders are rigid and protect the note very well. And the PMG holders are all the same size ... meaning ... Storage of PMG graded notes are not a hassle. Their holders are not some wet noodle, flimsy willy nilly. I've been collecting notes for 4 years and PMG has always been my favorite grading company. I'd rather have my collection conservative graded notes ... any day. In the event that my wife is left with our collection, at least value is still there. Some auctions and auction house no longer allow some of the more liberal graded notes into their auctions. They do not want the financial hassles, lawsuits, refunds, pissed buyers etc. And now ... for the #1 Grading company C G C ... Extremely conservative in the grading process. Not only Conservative in their grading principles, they provided me a diagram of where the flaws were on each and every note they graded for me. I was a lil ... aw man ... when I got my notes back. I thought I had 70 all across the board ... but then again we all do ... right? I looked at the diagrams, then looked at my notes ... hell I can't see a thing. So I got me coke bottle eyeglasses, put 3 magnify glasses ,,, and low and behold there were the folds ... WOW! Not that is integrity, both hands on top of the table and being truthful. No greed at C G C. Just honesty, truthfulness and keeping the hobby to a higher standard. I have a CGC 58 PQ $2 ED ... that, if a LIBERAL grading company were to get ahold of this note - they'd slab this note in a 65 or higher and sell for 3 times the money. Again ... more greed. Those over graded notes in the market, on the BOURSE floor, and in Major online auctions is where buyers get robbed by over jealous, greedy, shady dealers. Greed C G C holders are crystal clear ... meaning there is no tint & no trace of a hue of color in their holders. When you hold a C G C grade note in your hand, the note POPS out at you ... you can clearly see the note. After all ... that is one of the things that we collectors want .. is to be able to look upon the great art work that has been created on some these large notes. We all love the front & back of $5 Eds, the back of the large 1914 $100 with the 5 figures ... we all love the art. And in a C G C crystal clear holder, the notes not just look better, the grading is true. Very serious about having CGC reholder my entire 300 note collection. My wife thinks I should sell off 200 of them .. she thinks I have too many .... But that is another story ...... Dennis Mong harleyphatboy Sunday ... 10/12/2010 ... 11:00 AM Sunny Clear Skies - Central Florida
Hi Joe, I am a lifelong coin collector and I just got home from the Long Beach show last night. While attending the show I happened to notice the CGC graded notes at Mr. Bakers table and I really liked the product. I have always liked currency but never even considered collecting in this area since I don't know the first thing about it. The CGC product provides the reassurance that I need to consider sticking my toe in and actually buying my first notes. I am not sure if the pricing structure is similar to coins but I only collect mint state 63+ and I like to buy the grade right before the price jump ie High Relief in 64 vs 65. Thank you for your quick response and I would appreciate any help you can give this Newbie.
Regards, Mark Hagen
Regards, Mark Hagen
Thanks for your timely reply. I will try to get this out to you with some other notes that I need to have graded. I have owned a number of CGA and CGC notes and still like the grading quality of CGC. I think the grading is of higher quality than the CGA. JH
Joe, The currency has arrived. Thank you very much for the quick turnaround. I want to let you know that the holders add a wonderful dimension to looking at and "showing off" the currency. The holders really add to the beauty of the currency.
Bob
Bob
Thanks Joe. I got those notes. Thanks for fast delivery. I really love the Chief note. It's truely beautiful. I'm always satisfy when buy notes from you.
Again thanks, Brandon
Again thanks, Brandon
Wow I see what you mean , if a person did not know better they would think it was perfect I sure saw no folds. Have a nice day.
Drena Glover
Drena Glover
Sounds good and I will definitely have more notes to be graded in the near future. I'll just reference this email for the 4th one free. You guys do great work, thanks again.
David Daloisio
David Daloisio
Good Morning, I would like to know if you also grade shift prints, I have a $1.00 Fed. Note,1999 series. The reverse is close to normal position, however the front of the bill is shifted to the right and goes into the design, which makes the margin on the left approx. 3/8 wide, since not a grader myself I would call it AU condition as I took it from a pack of singles from the bank that bank had recounted. Also just to let you know my notes you graded were received yesterday. I am quite pleased with the service received and with the holidays I was surprised to get yesterday. Thanks, Charles