The Great Debate: Grading Paper Money — Is It Worth It?

Should you send that note to a grading service? The answer depends on the note, its condition, and your goals.

When grading helps

A scarce note in excellent condition can benefit from authentication, a standardized grade, and protective encapsulation. Grading may also make an important note easier for a buyer to evaluate remotely.

Do the math first

Fees, shipping, and turnaround time matter. For common circulated notes, the cost may exceed the value added. Compare the likely graded value with the complete cost of submission before sending anything away.

Whether graded or raw, accurate pricing starts with good data and careful inspection.