Non-PMG Graded Notes
Apart from PMG, there are other companies that grade banknotes, such as PCGS, Legacy, and TQG. Each grading service has its own strengths and weaknesses. PMG is known for its strong reputation and wide acceptance in the market, but it is also usually more expensive and can take longer to process. Other graders may offer lower fees and faster service, which can be useful for casual collectors or lower-value notes. However, they may not have the same level of recognition or detailed features as PMG.
PCGS banknote
Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) began as a coin grading company in 1986 and later expanded into banknote grading under the name PCGS Currency. After a split with its original partner, PCGS re-entered the paper money space as PCGS Banknote. It offers professional and consistent grading, and is well-regarded, especially in the U.S. Compared to PMG, PCGS Banknote is seen as a strong alternative, though it may be less widely recognised in some markets. Its holders and label details are also simpler than PMG’s, but many collectors also trust PCGS for accurate grading and good resale value.
PCGS 64, no remarks
Specimen note
Market Price: $490
Value Per Dollar: 490x
(2024)
PCGS 40, no remarks
Error note
Market Price: $950
Value Per Dollar: 19x
(2024)
PCGS 30, no remarks
Market Price: $180
Value Per Dollar: 1.8x
(2024)
PCGS 25, no remarks
Market Price: $120
Value Per Dollar: 120x
(2024)
Legacy
Legacy Currency Grading began as the original grading partner for PCGS under the name PCGS Currency. After the partnership ended, it continued on its own under the new name “Legacy.” While Legacy uses a grading scale similar to PMG and PCGS Banknote, it is seen as less established. It does not offer a population report, and its graded notes sell for lower prices. Compared to PMG and PCGS Banknote, Legacy is considered a lower-tier option, but it can still be a useful choice for collectors looking to grade notes at a lower cost.
Legacy 66 PPQ
Market Price: $2,500
Value Per Dollar: 2.5x
(2024)
Legacy 65 PPQ
Solid 9
Market Price: $1,400
Value Per Dollar: 28x
(2024)
Legacy 64 PPQ
Solid 4
Market Price: $600
Value Per Dollar: 12x
(2024)
Legacy 58 PPQ
Solid 7
Market Price: $700
Value Per Dollar: 14x
(2024)
TQG
Top Quality Guarantee (TQG) is a lesser-known banknote grading company that operates mainly in Southeast Asia. It uses a grading system similar to PMG and PCGS Banknote, combining numerical grades with descriptive terms. TQG is more affordable and accessible for casual collectors. However, it is not as widely recognised internationally, and its graded notes do not carry the same resale value or trust among dealers compared to those graded by PMG or PCGS. For collectors focused on regional issues or looking for lower-cost grading, TQG can be a practical option.
TQG 65 GEPQ
Error note
Market Price: $250
Value Per Dollar: 50x
(2024)
TQG 63, no remarks
Error note
Market Price: $1050
Value Per Dollar: 105x
(2024)