Slabbed vs Unslabbed Coins

Coin collecting and investing is a popular and rewarding pastime for many enthusiasts. One of the defining aspects of the hobby is the distinction between slabbed and unslabbed coins. Slabbed coins are graded and encapsulated by reputable third-party services, providing a certified guarantee of authenticity, a standardized 1–70 numerical grade, and long-term protection within a secure holder. In today’s coin market, the three primary grading companies are PCGS, NGC, and the newer addition, CAC.

In contrast, many coins remain unslabbed—or “raw”—meaning they have not been graded by a third-party service. While slabbed coins are often preferred for the assurance and preservation they offer, some collectors enjoy raw coins for the ability to hold and appreciate the piece directly in hand, free from a holder.

At US Coin Trust, we specialize in both slabbed and unslabbed coins to meet the full spectrum of collector preferences. Our team of experts, available at uscointrust.com, provides trusted guidance and a wealth of numismatic knowledge to help collectors make informed and confident decisions.