Coin collecting, or numismatics as it’s officially called, is a fun and rewarding hobby. For those who love hunting down rare coins and currency, making sure their finds are authentic is a big deal. Taking the time to check this authenticity not only boosts the historical value of their collections but also enhances how much they’re worth in the market.
The Authority on Authenticity
Leading the charge in coin authentication and grading is the Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS), which stands as the foremost authority in the realm of high-value collectibles. Recently, PCGS showcased its expertise at the Minted MNL Summer Show and Auction, a two-day event held at the Westin Manila Hotel in Pasig City, Philippines. Here, they provided essential services in validating the authenticity of some extraordinarily rare pieces that attracted the attention of collectors.

Jacky Young, PCGS Asia general manager, speaking during the recently concluded Minted MNL Summer Show
During this exclusive event, PCGS was entrusted with the responsibility of verifying the historical and financial value of exceptional items, including a 1766 Barilla coin minted in Manila and a four-real Mexican coin from the 19th century. The highlight was undoubtedly an eight-real coin from the Iturbide Empire in Mexico, which achieved the highest sale of the day at a staggering S$72,000.
The Market’s Emphasis on Authenticity
Sigrid Carandang, chairman of Minted MNL, stressed the critical nature of authenticity within the collectibles market. “To ensure the credibility of its auctions, Minted MNL partnered with PCGS and Certified Collectibles Group—the gold standards and global leaders in authentication,” she explained, reinforcing the importance of trust when it comes to valuable collections.

Its major business covers vintage coin grading service, Morden coin/ medal grading service, banknote grading service, restoration service, and novelties and merchandise.
Decades of Expertise
For collectors seeking assurance in the valuation and security of their items, PCGS has been a reliable partner since 1986. With a team of highly respected numismatic professionals, they apply the industry’s most rigorous standards to assess and grade both vintage and modern collectibles. Their influence extends across Asia, reaching collectors in countries such as South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This extensive reach cements PCGS’s status as a leader in global certification and grading.
By the end of 2020, PCGS had certified over 45 million coins with an impressive total market value of approximately S41.7 billion. Among their remarkable achievements, they authenticated the world’s most expensive coin—the 1933 Saint-Gaudens Double Eagle, which fetched S18,872,250. Additionally, their graded items continue to shatter auction records worldwide.
The Minted MNL Summer Show not only spotlighted the enduring passion of collectors but also highlighted the foundational role of authentication in the ever-thriving world of numismatics. With the expertise of PCGS steering the conversation, collectors can feel more confident in their pursuits, ensuring that every piece they acquire is not just a fragment of history but a genuine treasure.