Professional grading by PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) is one of the most effective ways to maximise the sale price of a valuable fancy serial note. A graded note in its tamper-evident holder carries verified authenticity and an independent condition score — two things serious collectors pay significant premiums for.

When Grading Makes Financial Sense

  • Under $50 value: Usually not worth grading — fee may exceed the premium it adds
  • $50-$100 value: Borderline — consider grading if note is near uncirculated
  • $100-$500 value: Almost always worth it — expect 50-100% price uplift
  • Over $500 value: Always grade — PMG can add 100-300% to final sale price

Step-by-Step: Submitting to PMG

  1. Create a PMG account at pmgnotes.com
  2. Select your service tier — economy is fine for most submissions
  3. Complete the submission form — note denomination, series year and serial for each note
  4. Package properly — rigid cardboard-backed envelope, note in a mylar sleeve. Never ship loose
  5. Use registered tracked mail — insure for full replacement value
  6. Track your submission on the PMG website
  7. Receive your slab — note encapsulated with grade and serial on the label

Understanding the Key Grades

  • PMG 65 EPQ or above — Gem Uncirculated with Exceptional Paper Quality. The gold standard for collector notes.
  • PMG 63-64 — Choice Uncirculated. Still commands strong premiums.
  • PMG 58 — About Uncirculated. Very slight handling but highly presentable.

The EPQ (Exceptional Paper Quality) designation indicates the note has not been pressed, cleaned or altered — buyers pay extra for this assurance.

Before you submit: Check your serial number free to confirm you have a genuine fancy pattern and get an estimated pre-grading value. No point grading a note that doesn't qualify.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is PMG grading?
PMG (Paper Money Guaranty) is the leading third-party grading service for paper currency. They authenticate, grade and encapsulate banknotes in tamper-evident holders with a verified condition score on the 70-point scale.
How much does PMG grading cost?
Economy grading starts at approximately $25-$30 per note for standard turnaround. Express services cost more. Check pmgnotes.com for current fees.
Is PMG grading worth it for a fancy note?
For notes worth over $100, almost always yes. The grading premium typically covers the fee many times over.
How long does PMG grading take?
Standard economy service takes 30-50 business days. Check pmgnotes.com for current turnaround times before submitting.