Buying rare coins: A guide to NGC PF70 & PCGS PR70 certifications
NGC PF70 PCGS PR70 represents the highest proof grade for certified modern collector coins. NGC uses the designation PF for proof coins, while PCGS uses PR. The number 70 in each case represents the highest numerical grade on the 70-point scale.
For collectors , NGC PF70 and PCGS PR70 coins are particularly interesting because they document the authenticity, condition, and identity of a specific coin. Especially when buying rare gold coins, proof coins, and modern collector coins online, certification by NGC or PCGS can provide additional transparency.
However, a PF70 or PR70 grade should not be considered in isolation. Crucial factors also include the issue, year, edition, subject matter, market availability, provenance, population, label, certification number, and demand within the respective collecting area.
Updated in May 2026: This article has been refined in terms of content and supplemented with information on NGC PF70, PCGS PR70, proof grading, slabs, certification numbers, online purchase, authentication, population and collector value.
What does NGC PF70 mean?
NGC PF70 designates a Proof coin that has been graded by the Numismatic Guaranty Company with the highest numerical grade of preservation. “PF” stands for Proof in NGC, meaning a type of coin produced specifically for collectors. The number 70 is the highest grade on the 70-point scale.
It’s important to note that PF70 doesn’t automatically mean every coin is rare or particularly valuable. The grade describes the documented condition of the specific specimen. Collector value also depends on the issue, mintage, demand, design, population, and market availability.
What does PCGS PR70 mean?
PCGS PR70 designates a proof coin that has been graded with the highest proof grade by the Professional Coin Grading Service. PCGS uses the abbreviation PR for proof coins, while NGC uses PF. Both designations refer to proof coins in the highest certified condition.
For collectors, therefore, not only the number 70 is important, but the complete combination of grading service, grade, additional designation, label, certification number and specific issue.
Why NGC PF70 and PCGS PR70 are important for collectors
NGC PF70 and PCGS PR70 coins are of interest to collectors because they represent the highest certified proof grade. The slab protects the coin, the certification number verifies the specific specimen, and the grade facilitates international comparison.
Especially with modern proof gold coins, low mintages, top-pop pieces, or rarely traded issues, a high certified grade can play an important role. However, the number on the holder does not replace a complete numismatic classification. Issue, rarity, condition, population, demand, and provenance remain crucial.
What you should pay attention to when buying certified coins online
When buying certified coins online, collectors shouldn’t just focus on the price. Important factors include a reputable dealer, clear product photos, complete information such as NGC or PCGS certification number, grade, label, minting quality, weight, fineness, year, face value, and origin.
The certification number should ideally be verified directly with NGC or PCGS. Furthermore, insured shipping, traceable payment methods, transparent return and shipping conditions, and a reliable description of the specific specimen are important.
Price comparisons for very rare coins can be difficult because identical pieces are often not available on the market at the same time. Therefore, auction results, population reports, market scarcity, and provenance should also be taken into account.
Which coins are frequently collected in PF70 or PR70
Modern proof gold coins in NGC PF70 or PCGS PR70 are particularly popular collector’s items. These include, among others:
South African Krugerrand Proof gold coins
American Liberty gold coins
Mexican Libertad Proof Gold Coins
modern proof issues from the South African Mint, such as the Big Five gold coins
rare modern gold coins from smaller issuing countries
Whether a PF70 or PR70 coin is particularly collectible always depends on the specific issue. A common PR70 coin is not automatically rarer than a PF69 coin with limited circulation.
Correctly classifying certified rare coins
NGC PF70 and PCGS PR70 coins can be particularly interesting for collectors of modern proof coins. They combine documented authenticity, high preservation, slab protection, and international comparability.
However, the collector’s value does not depend solely on the grade. Issue, year, edition, motif, fineness, demand, population, market availability, provenance, and the quality of documentation are also important. Especially when buying online, collectors should therefore not only focus on the grade “70” but thoroughly examine the specific piece.
Other interesting blogs:
Proof Coins vs Bullion Coins: Which is better as an investment in gold coins?
Grading of a coin: NGC and PCGS
Frequently asked questions about NGC PF70 and PCGS PR70
What does NGC PF70 mean?
NGC PF70 designates a Proof coin that has been graded by NGC with the highest numerical grade of preservation. PF stands for Proof, and 70 is the highest grade on the 70-point scale.
What does PCGS PR70 mean?
PCGS PR70 designates a proof coin that has been graded with the highest proof grade by PCGS. PCGS uses PR, while NGC uses PF for proof coins.
Are PF70 and PR70 coins automatically valuable?
No. PF70 or PR70 describes the certified condition of a coin. The value also depends on the issue, mintage, demand, population, design, provenance, and market availability.
Why is the certification number important?
The certification number makes the specific specimen verifiable. Collectors can thus better understand the information regarding the grading, the coin, and the holder.
Should you only pay attention to the 70 grade when buying online?
No. Grade is important, but not the only deciding factor. Collectors should also check dealer trust, photos, technical data, mintage, population, shipping, insurance, and provenance.
About the author
Larissa Wasserthal, at Wasserthal RareCoin.Store, focuses on modern numismatic gold coins, certified collectibles, and the clear explanation of complex numismatic topics. In her articles, she explains why NGC PF70, PCGS PR70, proof quality, slabs, certification, and collector value are important for discerning collectors. She combines numismatic research with clear language, ensuring that topics such as grading, population, provenance, and online purchases are also easily understood.
