NGC to Discontinue W Designation

Effective immediately, Numismatic Guaranty Corporation will no longer apply the “W” designation to its certified coins. This letter was used to indicate that a silver or nickel coin was entirely untoned, and its application was limited to certain modern series.

The reason for ending its use is simply that the marketplace doesn’t see a great need for this designation. It was introduced by NGC about 2-1/2 years ago at the suggestion of some dealers and collectors who wished to distinguish between toned and untoned coins. A recent re-evaluation of this designation by NGC suggests that it has had minimal impact on the coin market.

NGC has always been an innovator in the field of coin grading, and we will continue to weigh the merits of current and proposed designations as the need arises. Owners of NGC-certified coins who wish to have a “W” designation removed may submit such coins in their holders for our Reholder service at $4 per coin.

Any questions regarding the designations appearing on NGC-certified coins may be directed to our Customer Service Department at 800-NGC-COIN or Service@NGCcoin.com.