CAC Stickers Explained: Do They Add Value?
You'll see a small green (or gold) bean on some PCGS and NGC slabs. It's a CAC sticker, a second opinion that a coin is solid for its grade. Here's what it means and whether it's worth paying for.
Direct answer: A CAC sticker records CAC's opinion about an already-certified coin under its applicable standards. It does not guarantee a premium, liquidity, authenticity, or future acceptance. Verify the sticker and coin directly.
What CAC actually is
CAC (Certified Acceptance Corporation), founded in 2007 by John Albanese, a co-founder of both NGC and PCGS, reviews coins already gradedby PCGS or NGC. If a coin is solid-to-premium quality for its assigned grade, CAC affixes a sticker. If it's low-end ("C" quality), it gets no sticker. In 2023 CAC also launched its own grading service, CACG.
Green bean vs gold bean
| Sticker | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Green | Solid-to-premium quality for the assigned grade, an "A" or "B" coin. |
| Gold | Undergraded, CAC believes the coin merits a higher grade than the slab says. Rare and valuable. |
| No sticker | Either low-end for grade, not submitted, or didn't qualify. Not a condemnation by itself. |
Does it add value?
Yes, on coins where grade quality varies
Within a single grade, coins range from low-end to premium. CAC sorts for the premium ones, so green-bean coins routinely trade at a premium and sell faster. The effect grows with the coin's value.
Less so, on cheap or common coins
For inexpensive type coins and common bullion, the CAC premium is small or absent. Don't overpay for a sticker on a coin where it doesn't move the market.
It's a second opinion, not a different grade
A CAC sticker doesn't change the PCGS/NGC grade on the holder, it endorses it. Treat it as added confidence, and always verify the sticker on CAC's site.
Understand grading first
CAC builds on the Sheldon scale and the major services. Our grading guide explains the foundations.
Read the Grading Guide →Storage & handling
A CAC coin is still a slab, so a graded slab storage box keeps the holder from scuffing, and a 10x loupe lets you confirm the green bean is genuine before you pay the premium for it. See our collector gear guide →
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