DISMISSED-APPEAL IS  IN THE WORKS

CLICK BELOW TO SEE RECENT CASE UPDATES

I will be in a pause mode, but adding occasionally, for some time while I further prepare for the trial. I haven't stopped the documentation of the past CGA over grading for profit, just getting ready for the facts!!!

Thanks to many of you for your past support!!

UPDATED July 29, 2010

Please note: all references to "the new owner" of CGA are based on documented overgraded transactions prior to the sale of the licensed name CGA to the "new owner" of CGA.

CLICK HERE FOR CASE UPDATES

Email comments to: mailto:vcavo@bright.net

April 12, 2010 scheduled trial date

PORSCHE BEING SUED, CLICK HERE

When Porsche sells a GEM CGA note on Ebay it is guaranteed:

"Returns: No Returns Accepted"

Click here and CHECK HOW PCGS AND PMG COMPARE TO CGA:

Click here and Check out my Daily CGA and other notes to avoid on Ebay UPDATED April 23, 2010

CLICK HERE FOR GREAT DOCUMENTED QUOTES FROM THE X-LEADER OF CGA

CLICK HERE TO READ A SERIOUS EMAIL I RECEIVED

We add problem CGA notes about every day

SAVE YOUR MONEY AND COLLECT RESPONSIBLY. LOOK HERE FIRST!!

DON'T GET CAUGHT WITH YOUR PANTS DOWN  CHOOSE A GOOD, RELIABLE GRADING SERVICE THAT YOU CAN COUNT ON.

Below are some overgraded notes offered by well known ebay dealers via the CGA distribution network

UPDATED July 29, 2010

FR. 1200 serial number B5741119

As you can see the census history, this CGA graded $50 gold note was previously listed in a Lyn Knight auction as an AU 55. It was then on a PMG AU 53 holder. Now it is in a CGA 66 holder. Holly cow Batman....

UPDATED July 27, 2010

FR. 281 serial number N50047225

Here is the Stack's auction description on this note on March 23, 2009, "$5. Fr.281. Silver Certificate. 1899. No.N50047225. Plate A. Choice Uncirculated-64 (CGA).  A bright and colorful note that appears to be a perfect representative of the assigned grade. A degree of freshness that one could easily expect from an even higher grade, but centering is a little imperfect and a light, partial fingerprint is seen in the top margin of the back. Slightly handled, but very attractive and perfect for anyone seeking a choice example of this ever popular type note."

To add to the mix, the note was also sold in a Goldberg auction on February 7, 2007 and it was also in a CGA 64 holder.

To add further to the mix, the note was sold in July of 2007 on Ebay in a CGA 64 holder.

To add further, the note was sold in a Lyn Knight auction in August of 2003 also in a CGA 64 holder.

Now for the real story...This note is now on Ebay listed by the old owner of CGA under the handle DENOMS, all the same problems are there but the note is now in a CGA GEM 65 holder. GOTA GET THAT ORIGINAL INVESTMENT BACK SOMEHOW.....

UPDATED July 24, 2010

FR. 2211D serial number D00000804A

Rayal454 strikes again. As you can see from the history, if you can't sell them just inflate the grade. This note went from a VF 20, probably graded properly to a CH CU by our close friend RAYAL454. But he does make good pictures...

UPDATED July 19, 2010

FR. 277 serial number M26448222

One slim month ago this note was in a CGA XF 45 holder and apparently sold on Ebay for $1250.01. Today RAYAL454 is selling is on Ebay as a CH CU note. What a deal!!!

UPDATED July 19, 2010

FR. 119 serial number E9634636

On May 30, 2007, this note was listed in a Goldberg auction as a CGA CH CU 64. It was listed and apparently sold on Ebay for $4750.00 ON June 08, 2008, again in a CGA CH CU holder. It is now on Ebay in a PMG AU 55 holder. CHeck out the history....

UPDATED July 16, 2010

FR. 60 serial number D70427620A

Denoms, which many of you know, has this CGA GEM 66 on Ebay today. As you can see, the census history of this note is somewhat different than the CGA grade. Of course, Stacks grading must have been in error by describing this note as XF. Folds do make a difference.....

UPDATED July 16, 2010

FR. 233 serial number T95887057T

RAYAL454 sells GEM's on Ebay that end up in AU reputable grading services holders. This note was sold with no reserve at least 3 times by RAYAL454 on Ebay. How could that be???? Look at the census data history of this note; and now it is on Ebay in a PMG AU holder. What a business!!!!

UPDATED July 16, 2010

FR. 219 serial number B54460295

As you can see there is conformation RAYAL454 graded and sold a note on Ebay as an AU 55 on August 3, 2009 for $1675.01 that was previously a PCGS VF 35 (April 30, 2009). The conformation was a made after RAYAL454 apparently made a huge profit; and now the note is back in a PMG 30 holder on Ebay worth much much less. What a business!!!!

UPDATED July 11, 2010

FR. 714 serial number C451158A

On December 16, 2008 Heritage described this note as, "Fr. 714 $1 1918 Federal Reserve Bank Note PMG Uncirculated 60 Net. Nice margins are observed on this example. There is good news and bad news however. The bad news is that PVC damage has occurred as mentioned by PMG on the holder.

This note is now on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder. Looking at the reverse you can still see the discoloration from the PVC damage. But in the eyes of CGA,,,,GEM 66!!

UPDATED July 11, 2010

FR. 233 serial number X677808X

Another CGA profit created opportunity. As you can see, the note was sold in a Heritage auction in 2001 as a AU 55. But it now appears in a CGA CH CU 64 holder.

UPDATED July 11, 2010

FR. 2405 serial number A00013383

RAYAL454 on Ebay selling a previously PCGS graded VF 20 $100 gold note as a AU note for $536 on March 28, 2010. It also appears that the note was sold by him on June 20 of this year for over $900 but the buyer must have backed out...or was it shilling and he didn't get his price??? In either case BUYER BEWARE!!!

UPDATED July 08, 2010

FR. 1550 serial number A00248115a

As you can see the Census on the bottom of the reverse picture, it describes this note when sold on Ebay on June 7, 2010 as a CGC XF 45 and sold for $224.00. But apparently a new and improved version from RAYAL454 describes the note as an "NOTE IN SPECTACULAR MEGA GEM UNCIRCULATED CONDITION and sold for $352.77. So, what a great business to profit about 60% in just a month.

UPDATED July 08, 2010

FR. 2400 serial number *00461129

As you can see the Census on the bottom of the reverse picture, it describes this note when sold on Ebay on March 31, 2010 as a VG 8 and sold for $519.00. It is a rare note. But apparently a new and improved version from RAYAL454 describes the note as an XF++ and sold for $836.99. So, what a great business to profit about 60% in just a few months.

UPDATED July 06, 2010

FR. 2211H serial number H00003885

This note was sold on Ebay per the census on December 3, 2009. Maybe ONE of you will remember...It was in a PMG AU 50 holder. Well, now it is on Ebay again in a CGA CH CU 64 holder.

FR. 2202G serial number G00162116A

Rayal454 has just listed this note on EBay as a Choice/GEM Unc.; " NOTE IN FULL BLOWN CHOICE TOWARDS GEM UNCIRCULATED CONDITION."  However, little did he know that this note was sold on EBay about six weeks ago for $770 as a VF 20. Now he sold it for $1,125.01. Hummmmmm

UPDATED June 30, 2010

FR. 29 serial number Z31269111

This note is selling on EBay today by RAYAL454. His description: "1880 $1 LEGAL TENDER Fr 29 ULTRA GEM". However this exact note was sold in a Lyn Knight auction, per the census, on June 6, 2009 and it was in a PCGS XF 45 holder. Further description by RAYAL454, "This one has retained it's original paper quality It is super crisp with no rips or tears pinholes or folds." What do you make of that?

UPDATED June 26, 2010

EBay buyers should see this:

This note was sold on EBay on June 13, 2010. Today, less than two weeks later, June 26, 2010, the note re-appeared under the Ebay handle HIGHGRADERARITIES. Look what has happened to the note, before and after in less than two weeks....EBay buyer take care...

UPDATED June 29, 2010

FR. 223 serial number e49609232

Update 06/29/2010 concerning this note: It appears that the problems on the reverse of this note do not appear on the obverse, and they should. This leads me to consider that the front and back of these notes are not the same note. Since the seller stands on the fact that the note has no folds makes me think this is a set up!!!!

I had two other key dealers look at this note and confirm the above facts that this item on EBay did have folds.

The latest from Rayal454 on Ebay.... ""MARTHA" 1891 1.00 SILVER CERTIFICATE GEM UNC. WELCOME A LOT OF TONIGHTS AUCTIONS ARE FROM A RECENTLY AQUIRED COLLECTION OF EXTRAMLY HIGH GRADE.THIS AUCTION IS FOR AN 1891 1.00 SILVER CERTIFICATE SERIES AND IS IN FULL BLOWN & SPECTACULAR GEM UNCIRCULATED CONDITION AND BY FAR THIS IS THE FINEST EXAMPLE I HAVE EVER HAD THE PRIVILEDGE TO OFFER.   "" Please look at the reverse lower left corner and you will see the fold into the design; and he can't spell!!!

UPDATED June 26, 2010

FR. 268 serial number 10387263

This note was listed and apparently sold on EBay by the seller called Denoms, AKA a person we all know. The note is in a CGA XF 45 holder. Since the picture of the reverse was cropped, you can not tell if it is the NEW CGA or the OLD CGA holder. The note is a pressed VF at best confirmed by a good grader that I had look at it. The lower right reverse corner appears to have been repaired, and all the other corners have significant folds. None of that includes the about 5 other pressed out folds in the note. The note apparently sold for $5,000. Best guess if it were correctly graded, the note might hit $2000 to $2500, if it wasn't repaired.

UPDATED June 08, 2010

FR. 2408 serial number A00087104A

The Ebay sellers description tells all about this $50,000 price tag:

"About This Note:
You're bidding on a Series 1928 $1,000 Gold Certificate.   The note has recently been graded by Currency Grading Authentication, one of the leading third party independent currency grading companies. The assigned grade by CGA is CHOICE UNCIRCULATEED 64. This particular note has not been on the market since 2007. The Note has bright overprint and paper. If you look closely there is a center bend and the right corner has some rounding. "

UPDATED April 13, 2010

This email may be significant as to the relationship between the previous owner of CGA and a dealer on Ebay.....

From: NAME TAKEN OFF AT THE REQUEST OF THE SENDER (ORIGINAL COPY STILL AVAILABLE)
Sent: Tuesday, December 09, 2008 6:19 AM
To: vcavo@bright.net
Subject: Re: Lipka invoices (NOTE THE RE: THIS EMAIL WAS IN RESPONSE TO AN EMAIL I SENT TO THE SENDER. ALL DOCUMENTED.)

I replied to you in other email....My suggestion is to subpoena Ahmet and all his invoices from Numismania which we all know is CGA Lipka. I will tell you this, when I worked for Sandikci, I was privy to several conversations between Lipka and Sandikci where Sandikci would ask Lipka to upgrade the grading on a note from say a 62 to a 66 or 67 because he had an interested buyer and Sandikci was hurting for money to pay interest payments to people he was scamming. Lipka would do it. I also sat at the dinner table with both of them at the trade shows and those conversations were interesting. Example; Jess grade this piece of currency with a high grade, I will have a friend loaded with money buy it and we will set a new price for that note based upon that sale. Just think about the money we can make using the gray sheets. I cannot tell you how many times that was done. I would get up and leave I wanted NO part of that conspiracy.

 Sandikci, uses Lipka for his own use and Lipka goes right along because of the cash payoffs I seen Sandikci give Lipka at trade shows and Sandikci would mouth the words your half from the last batch.

UPDATED May 09, 2010 Porsche and CGA again

FR. 34 serial number A3655902

This note appeared in an April 17, 2008 Heritage auction and as you can see, it is in a PMG CH CU 64 NO EPQ.

Now Porsche, using the ebay name,  acp3palmbeach has the note in a CGA GEM 67 holder. AND HE HAS THE KAHONAS TO SAY IT'S THE FINEST!!!

UPDATED May 04, 2010

FR. 991 serial number 65058

Where does Porsche get all these Nationals?

The Heritage description from April 16, 2008:

New Orleans, LA - $5 1902 Plain Back Fr. 599 The Whitney-Central NB Ch. # 3069
A lovely large example with bright white paper and plenty of original embossing. Choice Crisp Uncirculated.

On April 8, 2010 Porscheahmet, a close friend of you know who, sold this note on Ebay under the name acp3palmbeach but it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

UPDATED May 04, 2010

FR. 991 serial number 65058

This is the Stack's auction description from a November 19, 2008 auction:

On April 15, 2010 Porscheahmet, a close friend of you know who, sold this note on Ebay under the name acp3palmbeach but it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

UPDATED April 28, 2010

FR. 2211L serial number L00011767A

Someone lost $3,700 on this one!!!!

The Heritage description from September 23, 2005:

Fr. 2211-L $1000 1934 Light Green Seal Federal Reserve Note. About Uncirculated.
THEN

The Heritage description from September 14, 2006:

Fr. 2211-L $1000 Light Green Seal 1934 Federal Reserve Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65.

UPDATED April 28, 2010

FR. 2212G* serial number G00003791*

Someone lost $7,000 on this one also!!!!

The Heritage description from September 27, 2007:

Fr. 2212-G* $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65.
This is a rare replacement for the issue as less than ten examples are known. Uncommon in this state of preservation, this is the first of a consecutive pair with vivid inks and decent margins. (look at the sequential note below)

THEN

The Heritage description from January 8, 2010:

Fr. 2212-G* $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. PMG Choice About Unc 58.

UPDATED April 28, 2010

FR. 2212G* serial number G00003792*

Someone lost $7,000 on this one!!!!

The Heritage description from September 27, 2007:

Fr. 2212-G* $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65.

THEN

The Heritage description from January 8, 2010:

Fr. 2212-G* $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. PMG Choice About Unc 58.

UPDATED April 28, 2010

FR. 2212G serial number G00206532A

The Heritage description from September 2, 2005: Look at the reverse. All corners have pressed out folds and there are two major folds from the left margin, center on the reverse, up toward the top of the note.

Fr. 2212-G $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. Choice About Uncirculated.

THEN

The Heritage description from January 7, 2006: with all the same folds...

Fr. 2212-G $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65.
A nicely centered Chicago thousand which is in a CGA Gem Uncirculated 65 holder

UPDATED April 27, 2010

FR. 2405 serial number A01352135A

The Heritage description from January 9, 2003: Look at the reverse, left for the fold.

Fr. 2405 $100 1928 Gold Certificate. CGA Choice Uncirculated 64.
A very scarce note in this grade, as few truly uncirculated examples are known. This piece is graded as Choice Uncirculated 64 by CGA.

THEN

The Heritage description from May 10, 2007: Look at the reverse, left for the fold which is still there but Heritage now sees it out of the holder.

Fr. 2405 $100 1928 Gold Certificate. Choice About Uncirculated.
A light center fold is noted on this otherwise Gem looking Gold Certificate. The overprint is bright as is the paper.

The first auction did not show the CGA holder, but described it as CGA....

UPDATED April 25, 2010

CH. 3084 serial number V110136

Here is the Heritage description on January 11, 2002, an I was there:

Logansport, IN - $10 1902 Date Back Fr. 616 The First NB Ch. # (M)3084
This bright note with wonderful pen signatures may be the finest note known from here. CGA Gem Uncirculated 67.

$2,990.00

Here is the Heritage description on January 20, 2009:

Logansport, IN - $10 1902 Date Back Fr. 616 The First NB Ch. # (M)3084
Lovely pen vanity signatures add to the eye appeal of this attractive $10 Date Back. Well centered and broadly margined for the type, with the eye appeal of an even higher grade. PCGS Very Choice New 64. NO PPQ ($920.00)

Someone lost $2,000.00

UPDATED April 24, 2010

CH. 3383 serial number 112063

Here is the Heritage description on January 11, 2002, an I was there:

Washington, PA- $5 1902 Plain Back Fr. 598 The Citizens NB Ch. # 3383
A bright and fresh example which has retained its full original embossing. Choice Crisp Uncirculated.

Here is the Heritage description on May 11, 2007:

Washington, PA - $5 1902 Plain Back Fr. 599 The Citizens NB Ch. # 3383
A bright and fresh example, graded CGA Gem Uncirculated 66, where embossing is still noticed through the holder.

UPDATED April 24, 2010

CH. 733 serial number B234039-L

Here is the Heritage description on January 15, 2005:

New York, NY - $5 1882 Brown Back Fr. 467 The NB of Commerce Ch. # 733
A lovely example with great color and eye appeal. With just a tad broader margin on the back, this would easily make the gem grade. Choice Crisp Uncirculated, and bearing the signature of J. Pierpont Morgan as a bonus, who signs as V. President.

Here is the Heritage description on September 22, 2005:

New York, NY - $5 1882 Brown Back Fr. 467 The NB of Commerce Ch. # 733
This J. Pierpont Morgan signed Brown Back has been slabbed by CGA and graded as Gem Uncirculated 67.

Someone raked in about  $1,600 here!!!

UPDATED April 24, 2010

CH. 5312 serial number K36886

This note was sold on Ebay in a CGA GEM 67 holder on February 2, 2009

Here is the Heritage description on September 11, 2009:

Louisville, KY - $5 1882 Date Back Fr. 537 The NB of Kentucky Ch. # (S)5312
A beautifully centered $5 1882 Date Back which appears uncirculated until closely examined, when a trace of a center fold can be detected. About Uncirculated, a perfect example for type.

Someone took an $1,100 hit here!!!

UPDATED April 23, 2010

CH. 3190 serial number F001295A

Heritage description in January 2002:

Belvidere, IL - $10 1929 Ty. 1 The Second NB Ch. # 3190
An attractive Very Fine-Extremely Fine note from a Small Size census of 13 notes.

We add a little foo foo dust and in a May 2004 Heritage auction we get this description:

Belvidere, IL - $10 1929 Ty. 1 The Second NB Ch. # 3190
Graded as Choice Crisp Uncirculated 64 by CGA, a grade which certainly appears justified.

The reminisce for the folds into the design can still be seen on the reverse.

UPDATED April 23, 2010

CH. 5512 serial number C002991A

Heritage description on January 9, 2004:

Albany, GA - $10 1929 Ty. 1 Albany Exchange NB Ch. # 5512
A lovely small size example which is nice as any note we've seen from here. Choice About Uncirculated, fully new but with a bit too much handing for the Uncirculated grade.

Re-Listed in a Lyn Knight auction on November 19, 2004 but now the note was in a CGA GEM 65 holder per the census.

UPDATED April 22, 2010

CH. 2491 serial number E058932A

Heritage description on October 4, 2007:

San Francisco, CA - $20 1929 Ty. 1 Bank of America National Trust & Savings Assoc Ch. # 13044
This is a nice, well embossed example from this popular California title. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65.

Heritage description on September 21, 2008:

San Francisco, CA - $20 1929 Ty. 1 Bank of America National Trust & Savings Assoc Ch. # 13044
The embossing is incredibly strong on this lightly handled Choice About Uncirculated example from this famous San Francisco bank.

UPDATED April 22, 2010

CH. 2491 serial number A002224

This note was sold in a Heritage auction on June 20, 2006 with the following Description:

Los Angeles, CA - $20 1929 Ty. 2 Security-First NB Ch. # 2491
Embossing is noticed on this bright Very Fine $20.

The next sighting of this note per the census was 2/16/2009, but the note was now in a CGA AU 50 holder.

UPDATED April 21, 2010

Fr.244 serial number B18155589

This note first entered the census in 11/20/2003 from a Lyn Knight auction, CGA GEM 68

A friend bought the note on April of 2006; cut it out; discovered it was AU; put it raw in a Lyn Knight auction. He lost over $4,000.00

Low and behold, God save the queen, someone we know bought it and much to our surprise, it's back in a CGA GEM 68; and made more money in a Superior auction.

UPDATED April 17, 2010

Fr.16 serial number 464-L

THEN A FEW MONTHS LATER

UPDATED April 17, 2010

Fr.923 serial number E24874814A-L

 The above is from the census showing the CGA note being sold on Ebay and someone had crossed the note to PMG than PCGS with the same results, AU and under $300

UPDATED April 15, 2010

Fr.1178 serial number C13774071-L

Grade inflation can make you a lot of money.....

In 2007 and 2008 this note was offered in A Heritage and Goldberg auction as a CGA GEM 68...Big bucks, but it didn't sell.

In January of 2009 the note moved into a PCGS 65 holder in a Heritage auction.

UPDATED April 15, 2010

Fr.268 serial number 450775-L

This note first saw action in a CGA GEM 66 holder in a Heritage auction in May of 2007. It did not sell.

Having not sold in the CGA 66 holder, the note was now in a PMG CH CU 64 holder and offered in a Goldberg sale in February of 2008 and Heritage sale in April of 2008.

UPDATED April 9, 2010

Fr.2200-E serial number E00012645A-L

CGA AU 50

PCGS VF 45

The was the lot in action before the next item below.

UPDATED April 9, 2010

Fr.2200-F serial number F00004454-L

This puppy ended up in a PCGS AU 55 holder.... Before it was in a CGA GEM 65 holder... WHO MADE THE MONEY?????

UPDATED April 4, 2010

Fr.2060-D serial number D00847283*

I am the owner of this note. I was taken in by the high grade. I purchased this note via Heritage auction. I paid $320.00.

I sent this note to PMG to cross....Ha Ha... The note was sent back with a note... Centerfold, pressed, re-embossed; most likely a AU 50 to AU 53; maybe worth $80...

UPDATED April 3, 2010

Fr.61a serial number 43796

This note was sold in a Stack's auction on January 16, 2006 with the following description: (There was no picture)

$5.00. Fr.61a. 1862. Series 50. No.43796. About Uncirculated.
 

Arcade Currency Palace is now offering this wonder on Ebay. If you would kindly click on the reverse of this note and look at the folds into the design on the lower right and upper left corners. This wonder of currency grading escalation is now in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

When Porsche sells a GEM CGA note on Ebay it is guaranteed:

"Returns: No Returns Accepted"

UPDATED April 2, 2010

Fr.868 serial number G14296864a

After I was a PMG 45 from the Thomas Flynn Collection I became a CGA CH CU 64 sold on Ebay by the "NETWORK". Eventually someone made a few hundred percent on this baby...

UPDATED March 31, 2010

Fr.2402 serial number A36258566A

Found this note on Ebay today. Another pissed off collector.

UPDATED March 30, 2010

Own a piece of history!!! This CGA GEM 68 note was graded by the X-owner of CGA, attempted to be sold, "Offered by Porscheahmet on eBay 5/10/08 for $20,599,000", and now the X-owner of CGA has it listed on Ebay for a minute $63,500.00.

UPDATED March 30, 2010

Fr.1214 serial number M1191614

This raw note was sold by Bowers on August 18, 2006. Description below: (5,750.00)

Lot #5142. Fr. 1214. 1882 $100 Gold Certificate. PCGS About New 53.

Today you will fine this note on Ebay in a CGA CH CU 62 holder for $9,950.00

UPDATED March 30, 2010

Fr.2101-I serial number I00129839A

When Porsche sells a GEM CGA note on Ebay it is guaranteed:

"Returns: No Returns Accepted"

Look at the reverse upper left, over the zero. You will see a fold in the CGA GEM 65. I suspect more, but....

UPDATED March 29, 2010

Do you want to lose $37,000. Look here at the dealers, the CGA grades, the actual grades, and the loss for one collector!!

UPDATED March 29, 2010

Fr.1602 serial number I20810354B

Porsche and CGA strike again. Look at the pressed out fold on the top center reverse of this GEM 68 over graded travesty. There are several other serial numbers CGA graded 1602's in the census around this serial number. They were sold by Porsche and the X-owner of CGA... Coincidence???

UPDATED March 28, 2010

Fr.1602* serial number *29943706A

The cataloger from Smythe graded this fraudulently overgraded nor properly; "about XF with three vertical folds (the center one sharp), a sharp top to bottom diagonal fold, a few corner folds, faint browning in one margin and corner...Sold as is". How is that for a description of a CGA GEM 65.

UPDATED March 27, 2010 Evening

Fr.912 serial number C11286400A

Look close at the reverse upper right corner and you will see the fold. I'm sure there are other problems as the note is flat... for some reason. You can buy this note on Ebay today!!!

UPDATED March 27, 2010

Fr.26 serial number K7877371

More of the same and a miraculous deflation of a CGA CH CU 64 to a PMG AU 50.

UPDATED March 26, 2010

Fr.224 serial number 4356211--- Sold by new owner of CGA

Fr. 268 serial number 203507

Fr. 280 serial number N19409202

Fr. 1215 serial number N1614835--- Sold by new owner of CGA

These are the four worst notes of the 12 submitted.  The remaining notes were lower by the following number of grade points: 8, 7, 8, 6, 3, 8, 3.  Plus one note that matched.

Here is a $30,000 loss with just 4 notes. Click on the notes and see consumer fraud first hand:

UPDATED March 23, 2010

I wanted to share this email...

UPDATED March 23, 2010

Fr. 271 serial number A67956894

This raw note was sold by Heritage on January 6, 2006. Description below: Did not sell

Fr. 271 $5 1899 Silver Certificate Choice About New. This beautifully margined, originally embossed Chief has a single extremely light centerfold.

Then the note was again sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below: (2,300.00)

Fr. 271 $5 1899 Silver Certificate PMG Choice About Unc 58

A few months later on November 18, 2008  the new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was in a CGA GEM 65 holder. ($2,475.00)

A month later on December 25, 2008  the new owner of CGA was offering this note again on Ebay and the note was still in a CGA GEM 65 holder. ($3,050.00)

UPDATED March 22, 2010

Fr. 2200-D serial number D00023927A-L

This note was sold by Heritage on February 19, 2005. Description below: ($2.300.00)

Fr. 2200-D $500 1928 Federal Reserve Note. Choice About Uncirculated.
Just a bit of handling and the faintest of folds from the uncirculated category. (They forgot to mention the stains)

Then the note was again sold by Heritage on September 23, 2005. Description below: (3,450.00)

Fr. 2200-D $500 1928 Federal Reserve Note. CGA Choice Uncirculated 64.

Then the note was again sold on Ebay in the same CGA CH CU 64 holder on January 30, 2010 for ($1,825.00)

UPDATED March 22, 2010

Fr. 2157-I serial number I00007358A

The X leader of CGA strikes again!!!

This note was sold by Heritage on April 18, 2008. Description below: ($143.00)

a 1950 Minneapolis Mule as About Uncirculated 55

On July 27, 2008  the then owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was in a CGA GEM 67 holder. ($340.00)

UPDATED March 21, 2010

Fr. 1187 serial number K69577103

This note was sold by Stacks on May 22, 2008. Description below: ($805.00)

$20. Fr.1187. Gold Certificate. 1922. No.K69577103. Plate G. EF.

A few months later on July 27, 2008  the new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was in a CGA GEM 65 holder. ($2,131.00)

Then this note was sold by Heritage on April  30, 2009. Description below: ($575.00)

Fr. 1187 $20 1922 Gold Certificate PMG About Uncirculated 50.

Someone took it on the chin for $1,500 for this one.....

UPDATED March 21, 2010

Fr. 926 serial number F13845134A

On June 24, 2008  the new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was in a CGA GEM 67 holder. ($811.00)

Then this note was sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below: ($230.00)

Fr. 926 $10 1914 Federal Reserve Note PMG About Uncirculated 50

Someone took a beating.....

UPDATED March 20, 2010

Fr. 60 serial number E16296428A

Fr. 60 serial number B1381351A

Pick your poison!!! Tell me which note, the 65 or 67, would you say is a GEM. Now you have to choose the gem....

UPDATED March 19, 2010

Fr. 122 serial number E60802948

Fr. 114 serial number 19761509

This is an interesting pair of notes. One graded by CGA and the other PCGS. Both are graded GEM 67.

The CGA  note was graded by the person that listed the PCGS note on Ebay. He happens to be the X-owner of CGA.

Let's be a bit factual here and not subjective or think that currency grading is an art; Lipka's defense.

If a GEM 67 note like the ones to the left are selling for $24,500, and you compare the two; will you get screwed or not?

UPDATED March 16, 2010 Afternoon check out the auction dates on this and the  next 2 notes. All bought in the same auction BY.......

Fr. 863a serial number E32354697A

On June 28, 2008 in a Lyn Knight sale, the following note was auctioned: ($258.75)

Fr. 863a serial number L192853A and it was in a PCGS AU 58 holder.

A few months later, March 26, 2009  the new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was now in a CGA CH CU 64 holder. ($292.00)

UPDATED March 16, 2010 Afternoon

Fr. 840a serial number L192853A

On June 28, 2008 in a Lyn Knight sale, the following note was auctioned: ($1,322.00)

Fr. 840a serial number L192853A and it was in a PMG CH CU 63 holder.

A few months later, September 8, 2008  the now new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was now in a CGA CH CU 64 holder. ($1,501.00)

UPDATED March 16, 2010 Afternoon

Fr. 838b serial number G2172641A

On June 28, 2008 in a Lyn Knight sale, the following note was auctioned: ($1,495.00)

Fr. 838b serial number G2172641A and it was in a PMG AU 55 holder.

Less than two months, August 5, 2008 the now new owner of CGA was offering this note on Ebay but, the note was now in a CGA CH CU 63 holder. ($1,788.00)

UPDATED March 16, 2010

Fr. 913 serial number C16151178A

This is another note was sold by Heritage on April 15, 2008. Description below:

913 Philadelphia PMG 55

This note was then listed on Ebay 2 months later on June 21, 2008  by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 67 holder, per the census.

Then the note was again sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 913 $10 1914 Federal Reserve Note PMG About Uncirculated 55.

UPDATED March 16, 2010

Fr. 909 serial number B55688881A

This note was sold by Heritage on April 15, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 909 PMG 55

This note was then listed on Ebay later on March 18, 2009 and March 26, 2009 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA CH CU 64 holder, per the census.

UPDATED March 13, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 833b Serial number B7676504A

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on January 12, 2008. Description below: ($1.495.00)

Fr. 833b $5 1914 Red Seal Federal Reserve Note PMG Choice About Unc 58.

This note was then listed on Ebay a two months later on June 15, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder, per the census. ($2,860.00)

UPDATED March 13, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 762 Serial number F22A

Another from the old guy and the new guy at CGA. Before the CGA sale occurred:

On June 28, 2008 a FR 762 serial number F22 was auctioned in a Lyn Knight sale. The note was in a PCGS AU 58 holder. I am told that the bidder in this auction had the initials JL. Anyone know him?

On February 25, 2009 the soon to be new owner of CGA listed this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder.

In June of 2009 the note was again offered in a Lyn Knight sale, but now it was raw.

For several months there after, the note was attempted to be sold on Ebay by the Old owner of CGA; seven times, raw.

UPDATED March 13, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 752 Serial number B14916998A

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on January 12, 2008. Description below: ($977.50)

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on March 9, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA AU 58 holder, per the census. ($1,424.00)

UPDATED March 13, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 712 Serial number B50799975A

Another from new guy at CGA. About 1 month Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Stacks on November 19, 2008. Description below: ($253.00)

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on March 26, 2009 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder, per the census. ($385.00)

UPDATED March 9, 2010

Fr. 236 Serial number X55A

This note was sold by Heritage on May 9, 2007. Description below:

Fr. 236 $1 1899 Silver Certificate Choice New. This is yet another glorious two digit serial number X55A Black Eagle that has remained off the market for 15 years. Nicely embossed with a touch too much tightness at upper left. ($930.00)

Then this note was sold by Heritage on September 27, 2007. Description below:

Fr. 236 $1 1899 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 66. This wavy piece boasts the two digit serial number X55A

This note is now on Ebay for $2,450.00

UPDATED March 8, 2010

Fr. 1200 Serial number B5901164

RAYAL454 strikes again on Ebay. This note sold in a Heritage auction per the census as a PMG VF 20 on February 5, 2008. ($1,025.00)

Now it is on Ebay, and very spruced up a bit and Rayal454 says, "1922 50.00 GOLD CERTIFICATE EXTRA FINE COND."

Boy was this one cleaned up!!!!!

UPDATED March 8, 2010

Fr. 122 Serial number E31566325

RAYAL454 strikes again on Ebay. This note sold on Ebay per the census as a PCGS VF 25 on January 12, 2010. ($1,600.00)

Now it is on Ebay, spruced up a bit and Rayal454 says, "1901 10.00 LEGAL TENDER EXTRA FINE+"

UPDATED March 8, 2010

Fr. 256 Serial number M95368151

RAYAL454 strikes again and again on Ebay. This note sold in a Spink auction per the census as an XF on April 22, 2009. ($310.00)

Now it is on Ebay, spruced up a bit and Rayal454 says, "RARE !! 1899 2.00 SILVER CERTIF. CHOICE CRISP UNCIRCLTD" current bid ($350.00)

UPDATED March 6, 2010

Fr. 238* Serial number *22567672D

In September of 2008 this note was sold in a Heritage auction in a PMG AU58 holder and noted by Heritage, "corner fold". The note sold for $690.00. Then the note was on Ebay in a CGA CU CU 64 holder selling for over $1649.00, almost 240% profit on one year.

It is back again on Ebay for only a paltry $999.99.

UPDATED March 6, 2010

Fr. 239 Serial number B46750876E

 $$ GREED $$

This note was attempted to be sold on Ebay in January 14, 2009 by the "X" owner of CGA (DENOMS) for $1025.00. However the note was then in a PCGS CH CU 64.

Now on Ebay the note is in a CGA GEM 65 holder, a holder prior to the sale of CGA. ($2,299.00)

UPDATED February 28, 2010 Good mid-morning

Fr. 351 Serial number B43577533

This note was sold by Goldberg on November 14, 2007. Description below:

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on May 28, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 28, 2010 Good mid-morning

Fr. 281 Serial number N54308995

This note was sold by Heritage on October 7, 2007. The picture appears to be brilliantly lighted so one can not see the folds or problems with the VF note. But with close inspection you can see enough. I've have a large picture to review. Check out the Description below:

Fr. 281 $5 1899 Silver Certificate PMG Very Fine 30. The paper is bright and the details uninterrupted by the traces of light circulation.

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on March 9, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA X 40 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 28, 2010 Good mid-morning

Fr. 248 Serial number 14892853

This note was sold by Heritage on September 26, 2007. Check out the Description below:

Fr. 248 $2 1896 Silver Certificate Extremely Fine. A number of small pinholes and some light discoloration hold the grade down on this otherwise AU Educational Deuce. In the proper hands with a touch of effort, this note will likely enter an AU holder.  And it was cleaned up and put in an AU holder!!!
From The John Ameen Collection

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on July 20, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA AU 58 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 28, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 242 Serial number B13055053

This note was sold by Scotsman on February 8, 2008. Description below:

1886 $2.00. CH CU.  ($4,485.00)

This note was then listed on Ebay a few weeks later on March 16, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census. ($5,600.00)

Check out the rounded corners and handling.

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good evening

Fr. 235 Serial number H9899418A

This note was sold by Heritage on April 18, 2008. Description below:

There are three Black Eagles: Fr. 233, 235 and 236, grading in order: PMG 53 EPQ, PMG 45 and PMG 55. ($365.00)

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on August 24, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census. ($1025.00)

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good evening

Fr. 234 Serial number E89453078A

This note was sold by Heritage on January 4, 2007 and April 15, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 234 $1 1899 Mule Silver Certificate Very Choice New. Quite near the full Gem grade, just a touch tight at the bottom. ($546.00)

Fr. 234 $1 1899 Mule Silver Certificate Very Choice New. Quite near the full Gem grade, just a bit close at the bottom. ($488.00)

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on August 19, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census. ($658.00)

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good evening

Fr. 224 Serial number 146458

Another CGA new guy transaction before he bought CGA:

This note was sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 224 $1 1896 Silver Certificate PMG About Uncirculated 55

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on December 15, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 224 Serial number 1350318

The new guy at CGA is at it again somehow. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Goldberg on September 26, 2007. Description below:

1896, $1 Silver Certificate. Fr-224. PMG graded Choice Uncirculated 64.

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on April 19, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census.

Then this note was back in a PMG holder sold by Heritage on January 11, 2010. Description below:

Fr. 224 $1 1896 Silver Certificate PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. Deep inks and decent centering should appeal to every collector. The slightly tight bottom margin is likely all that held this Educational Ace from the full Gem grade.

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 217 Serial number B27857722

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 217 $1 1886 Silver Certificate PMG Very Fine 30. A nice Martha note with the large red seal. Well margined and free of problems.
From The Chenango County Collection

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on November 16, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA AU 50 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 27, 2010 Good morning

Fr. 119 Serial number E9356432

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on September 19, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 119 $10 1901 Legal Tender PMG About Uncirculated 53. Close inspection reveals a lone fold which extends into the design. Otherwise, this piece appears fully uncirculated and with its large margins, it even appears Gem.
From The Chenango County Collection

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on November 11, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 66 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 26, 2010 Almost midnight

Fr. 39 Serial number *12758162

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on April 15, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 39 $1 1917 Mule Legal Tender Star Note Extremely Fine-About New

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on July 27, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA GEM 65 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 26, 2010 Almost midnight

Fr. 27 Serial number A2540305

Another from new guy at CGA. Before he bought CGA this occurred:

This note was sold by Heritage on April 18, 2008. Description below:

Fr. 27 $1 1878 Legal Tender PMG Choice About Unc 58. Not quite a fully uncirculated example of this 1878 One Dollar Type.
From The Thomas M. Flynn Collection

This note was then listed on Ebay a few months later on July 20, 2008 by the now new owner of CGA. But, it was now in a CGA CH CU64 holder, per the census.

UPDATED February 24, 2010

Fr. 745 Serial number L17118034A

Look at the reverse lower right corner fold into the design of this CGA graded GEM 65. It's on Ebay this day...

UPDATED February 21, 2010

Fr. 1167 Serial number A6328657

I only gets better.. Wait till you see this one!!!!!

This note was sold by Heritage on September 16, 2006. Description below: ($5,462.50)

Fr. 1167 $10 1907 Gold Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 68. The top to bottom and right to left centering couldn't be off more than a millimeter or two. The golden-orange overprint is richly colored and perfectly embossed.

Then this note was sold by Heritage on January 11, 2010. Description below: ($2,530.00)

Fr. 1167 $10 1907 Gold Certificate PCGS Choice About New 58PPQ.

UPDATED February 18, 2010

Fr. 226 Serial number 22543752

Wait till you see this one!!!!!

This note was sold by Heritage on May 21, 2005. Description below: ($1,840.00)

Fr. 226 $1 1899 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 67.

Then this note was sold by Heritage on January 8, 2007. Description below: ($322.00)

Fr. 226 $1 1899 Silver Certificate PMG Choice About Unc 58 EPQ. A well margined Black Eagle that shows the slightest hint of circulation. Now it shows circulation.

Tried to be sold on Ebay several times as an Raw AU.

Then, listed on Ebay, CGA GEM 66, 04/7/2008 ($921,00)

UPDATED February 18, 2010

Fr. 226 Serial number 1161637

This note was sold by Heritage on May 9, 2007. Description below: ($2,300.00)

Fr. 226 $1 1899 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 67.

This note was sold by Heritage on January 11, 2009. Description below: ($488.75)

Fr. 226 $1 1899 Silver Certificate PCGS Choice About New 58PPQ. A light vertical bend is all that prevents a Gem New grade on this lovely, boldly embossed, fully original Black Eagle.

Someone found a fold!!!!!!

UPDATED February 18, 2010

Fr. 225 Serial number 51954471

 Here is a bute involving the new owner of CGA...

Listed on Ebay, CGA CH CU 63, 06/30/2007 ($2,899,00)

Well that didn't work, lets try a Raw "Fr. 225 $1 1896 Silver Certificate Choice About New" with Heritage, 1/12/2008  ($1,840,00) Look at the pressed out fold on the reverse...

Well that didn't work, lets try a different grade CGA Gem CH CU 64 with Ebay, 3/16/2008 New owner of CGA ($2,401,76)

UPDATED February 16, 2010

Fr. 224 Serial number 13975401

 Ok, Let's try a CGA GEM 68, 2005

Well that didn't work, lets try a CGA Gem 67 with Heritage, 1/12/2008

Well that didn't work, lets try a CGA Gem 67 with Ebay, 1/27/2008

UPDATED February 16, 2010

Fr. 223 Serial number E45648481

In 2002 Tom Denly called this XF; In March of 2005 B&M called this XF ($1,045)

This note was sold by Heritage on September 21, 2005. Description below:

Fr. 223 $1 1891 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 67. ($2,990)

UPDATED February 16, 2010

Fr. 223 Serial number E37889880

A little thing like corner tip folds doesn't scare CGA.....

This note was sold by B&M on July 9, 2004. Description below: ($2,000.00)

Lot #1173. Fr. 223. 1891, $1 Silver Certificate. Serial #E37889880. Choice CU. There is a faint corner tip bend at the lower left.

This note was sold by Goldberg on February 21, 2005. Description below:

1891, $1 Silver Certificate. CGA graded Gem Uncirculated 67. ($2,800.00)

UPDATED February 15, 2010

Fr. 219 Serial number B55288432

This note was sold by Stacks on February 27, 2008. Description below: ($4,370.00)

$1. Fr.219. Silver Certificate. 1886. No.B55288432. Plate D. Gem Uncirculated-66 (CGA).

Then on January 9, 2009 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 219 $1 1886 Silver Certificate PCGS Very Choice New 64PPQ.

($2,300.00)

UPDATED February 15, 2010

Fr. 221 Serial number E37889880

This note was sold by Heritage on September 21, 2005. Description below: ($1,265.00)

Fr. 218 $1 1886 Silver Certificate New. A few light corner bumps and a stain in the right margin hold this nice original Large Red Seal Martha from the Gem grade.

Then on January 4, 2007 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 218 $1 1886 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 67. This is a beautifully bright example of a large Red Seal Martha with the first back. Fr. 218 is the third scarcest of the seven 1886 Martha's. This one has bright color and broad margins.($4,887.50)

UPDATED February 15, 2010

Fr. 217 Serial number B31287864

This note was sold by Heritage on September 9, 2004. Description below: ($2,185.00)

Fr. 217 $1 1886 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 66. A fresh-appearing Martha Ace, with broad margins, excellent colors and very nice centering of both sides. It certainly appears to have earned its rather high third-party grade.

Then on March 27, 2009 Bowers & Merena sold this as a PCGS graded note with the following comment:

Apparent 64 Small Repair ($1,323.00)

UPDATED February 14, 2010 A CGA VALENTINE FOR YOU

Fr. 215 Serial number B6463884

This note was sold raw by Heritage on January 08, 2004. Description below:

Fr. 215 $1 1886 Silver Certificate CGA Choice Uncirculated 64.

Then on September 21, 2005 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 215 $1 1886 Silver Certificate PMG Choice About Unc 58 EPQ

UPDATED February 14, 2010 A CGA VALENTINE FOR YOU

Fr. 164 Serial number A822930

This note was sold raw by Heritage on May 05, 2005. Description below: ($2,530.00)

Fr. 164 $50 1880 Legal Tender Fine-Very Fine. This Friedberg number, while no means common, does represent the most affordable opportunity to own this type. There is a small scuffed area at top center just above the serial number and a few scattered pinholes

Then on September 21, 2005 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 164 $50 1880 Legal Tender CGA Very Fine 30. A solid, attractive example of a scarce and popular higher-denomination type($3,220.00)

UPDATED February 14, 2010 A CGA VALENTINE FOR YOU

Fr. 128 Serial number A625811

This note was sold by Heritage on April 27, 2006. Description below: ($6,325.00)

Fr. 128 $20 1875 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 66

Then on September 10, 2009 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 128 $20 1875 Legal Tender PCGS Choice About New 58. ($3,737.50)

UPDATED February 14, 2010 A CGA VALENTINE FOR YOU

Fr. 123 Serial number A660102B

This note was sold raw by Heritage on May 05, 2005. Description below: ($4,485.00)

Fr. 123 $10 1923 Legal Tender Choice About New

This note was listed on Ebay twice in 2007 in a CGA GEM 65 holder. ($7,000.00)

UPDATED February 13, 2002

Rayal454 strikes again; his Ebay description:

SUPERB HIGHER GRADE CONDITION

RAZOR SHARP, LILLY WHITE MARGINS

VERY LITTLE CIRCULATION 

ONLY A FEW LIGHT FOLDS

This $500 note was sold on Ebay on January 15, 2010 in a VF 20 PCGS holder. It is not in the PCGS holder now......

UPDATED February 09, 2002

Fr. 122 Serial number  *428600B

This note was sold raw by Heritage on May 17, 2002. Description below:

Fr. 122 $10 1901 Legal Tender Star Note Choice About New. A lovely note which is listed as Uncirculated in the Murray reference....

This note was sold by Goldberg on September 10, 2005 in a CGA GEM 65 holder. Description below:

This overgraded note sold for over $29.000.00

UPDATED February 09, 2010

Fr. 121 Serial number E23511585

This note was sold raw by Stacks on January 16, 2007. Description below:

UPDATED February 09, 2010

Fr. 115 Serial number A5556371

This note was sold raw by Heritage on January 5, 2001. Description below:

Crisp Choice CU Bison Note, C.G.A. 64

1901 $10 Legal Tender Note, Fr-115, C.G.A. Choice Uncirculated 64. This note is well centered, but it looks like one of the corners is a trifle soft.
Since we cannot examine encapsulated notes, they are sold "as is" without our grading opinion, and may not be returned for any reason. ($2,702.50)

On May 6, 2004 this note was sold in a Heritage auction, but the description and grade changed: Fr. 115 $10 1901 Legal Tender Gem New. A lovely Bison, with original paper surfaces, good embossing, broad margins and nice color. We sold this note once before in a CGA-64 holder. It is now out of that holder, and it certainly appears to us that the note makes the full Gem grade. Does the CGA gem 65 look a bit cleaned up and remember in 2001 the note was sold "as is". Not now.....

UPDATED February 09, 2010

Fr. 93 Serial number 14631

This note was sold raw by Heritage on January 8, 2004. Description below: Fr. 93 $10 1862 Legal Tender CGA Choice Uncirculated 64

On June 26, 2006 this note was sold September 18, 2008 in a PMG AU 55 holder.

Fr. 93 $10 1862 Legal Tender PMG About Uncirculated 55

UPDATED February 09, 2010

Fr. 90 Serial number H65640559

This note was sold raw by Heritage on January 13, 2007. Description below: Fr. 90 $5 1907 Legal Tender About New

On June 26, 2006 this note was sold on Ebay in a CGA CH CU 64  holder, per the census!!

UPDATED February 09, 2010

Fr. 89 Serial number H46631771

This note was sold by Heritage on April 17, 2008 in a PMG XF 40 holder. Description below: Fr. 89 $5 1907 Legal Tender PMG Extremely Fine 40. A surprisingly scarce number, with only 70 examples known in all grades combined. Most of the surrounding notes are represented by hundreds of known examples. An attractive XF with the appearance of a far higher grade.
From The Thomas M. Flynn Collection

On September 16, 2008 this note was sold on Ebay in a CGA CH CU 62 holder, per the census!!

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 1604 Serial number D82596295B

This note was sold by Heritage on September 15, 2006 in a CGA GEM 67 holder. Description below:

Fr. 1604 $1 1928D Silver Certificate. CGA Gem Uncirculated 67.
This is a beautifully centered example with bold vivid colors. ($977.50)

Look at the reverse closely and you can see why the AU grade was given by PMG.

Then on May 3, 2009 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 1604 $1 1928D Silver Certificate. PMG Choice About Unc 58.
Boardwalk margins with excellent centering make this note stand out. ($138.00) Did someone lose here????

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 1502 Serial number A6650609A

This note was sold by Heritage on January 5, 2006 and was raw. Description below:

Fr. 1502 $2 1928A Legal Tender Note. Choice About Uncirculated.
This gorgeous semi-key note has great margins with bright overprints, but exhibits a very light center fold. ($276.00)

A few short months later on April 26, 2006 Heritage described this Note as:

Fr. 1502 $2 1928A Legal Tender Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 67.
Strong, original embossing is seen through the third party holder on this elusive semi-key to the series. ($1,035.00)

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 87 Serial number E25134194

This note was sold by Heritage on May 1, 2003 and was raw. Description below:

Fr. 87 $5 1907 Legal Tender Choice About New. There is an extremely light center fold on this otherwise Superb bright, strictly original Pioneer. ($402.50)

On August 31, 2008 this note was sold on Ebay in a CGA GEM 67 holder, per the census for ($1,531.00)

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 85 Serial number B47722358

This is becoming extremely suspicious... Here is another!!!

This note was sold by Heritage on April 17, 2008 in a PMG CH CU 64 holder. Description below:

Fr. 85 $5 1907 Legal Tender PMG Choice Uncirculated 64. One of the more common Pioneers, with 233 pieces listed in the census. This note is very well margined, bright and attractive.
From The Thomas M. Flynn Collection($862.50)

On July 20, 2008, Only 2 months later, the New owner of CGA, under the Ebay handle JVSCOINS sold this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder!!! Ain't it great to have friends!!! This is becoming the norm. Several of these are listed here. ($1,177.01)

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr.85 Serial number *427077B

This note was sold three times by auction houses as an XF and then once as a CGA GEM 65. History doesn't count with CGA!!!

Fr. 85 $5 1907 Legal Tender Star Note Extremely Fine+. This bright, white example has plenty of original embossing present and like new colors. This note has been off the market for over 13 years, from the Richard Merlau collection. If scarcity and quality are key, this note is for you.
From the Large Size Star Note Collection of Richard Merlau

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 84 Serial number B26240979

This is becoming very suspicious... Here is another!!!

This note was sold by Heritage on April 17, 2008 in a PMG AU 55 holder. Description below:

Fr. 84 $5 1907 Legal Tender PMG About Uncirculated 55. A slightly scarcer Pioneer number, with 114 notes in the Track & Price census. A most attractive note, with a single light fold.
From The Thomas M. Flynn Collection ($690.00)

On July 20, 2008, Only 2 months later, the New owner of CGA, under the Ebay handle JVSCOINS sold this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder!!! Ain't it great to have friends!!! This is becoming the norm. Several of these are listed here. ($1,280.55)

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 81 Serial number A44174786

This is becoming very suspicious...

This note was sold by Heritage on Sept 27, 2007 in a PCGS CH CU holder. Description below:

Fr. 81 $5 1880 Legal Tender PCGS Very Choice New 64PPQ. Deep overprints and vibrant color illuminate the surface of this wonderful Woodchopper. Perhaps a bit tighter margin along the bottom has held this beauty from Gem. ($1.265.00)

On May 12, 2008 the New owner of CGA, under the Ebay handle JVSCOINS sold this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder!!! Ain't it great to have friends!!! This is becoming the norm. Several of these are listed here. ($2,025.00)

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 80 Serial number A40768312

On January 8, 2004 Heritage described this Note as: Fr. 80 $5 1880 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 66. A lovely, broadly margined Pioneer with ideal color and original embossing that can be seen through the CGA holder. $1,178.75

On November 18, 2008 Heritage described this Note as: Fr. 80 $5 1880 Legal Tender PCGS Choice About New 58. Strong embossing is noticed on this beautiful Woodchopper that has excellent color and appears to be a Gem at first glance. $690.00

UPDATED February 07, 2010

Fr. 80 Serial number A27088386

On September 26, 2003 Heritage described this note as follows: Fr. 80 $5 1880 Legal Tender Choice About New. Again, a single light corner fold prevents a far higher grade. The note was sold for $414.00

On September 16, 2006 Heritage described this note as follows: Fr. 80 $5 1880 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 67. Nicely margined and displaying natural surfaces is this bright Woodchopper.

The note was sold for $2,127.50 And, the hard fold has almost all but dissappeared.

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 73 Serial number A1365516

On March 3, 2001 Lyn Knight call this note an AU and that is reported in the census. ($484.00)

On April 27, 2006, in a Heritage auction, this note now appeared as a CGA CH CU64. ($1,265.00)

You can see the center fold if you look closely and maybe a corner fold or two into the design.

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 72 Serial number Z18321480

Wait till you see this one!!! Several corner folds into the design. ON January 5, 2006, Even Heritage said, "  A bit aged around the edges, with some corners handled." They were being kind to the description of this note.

In March of 2001, Smythe called this note AU-CU, altered. There is no way this note is CU,

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 72 Serial number Z18321461

This note was sold on January 13, 2005 in a heritage auction. It was sold as AU. $603.75

Fr. 72 $5 1880 Legal Tender About New

The next appearance per the census was on Ebay on August 8, 2006 and sold for $1,325.00. It was sheltered into a CGA CH CU 64 holder.

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 68 Serial number B6853430

Fr. 68 $5 1875 Legal Tender Choice New (05/06/2005) Heritage $1,265.00

Fr. 68 $5 1875 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. (01/04/2007) Heritage $1,725.00

Someone made a quick $500 here.

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 67 Serial number B257629

This note was sold by Heritage on April 18, 2008 in a PCGS AU 55 holder.

On July 20, 2008 the New owner of CGA, under the Ebay handle JVSCOINS sold this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 65 holder!!! Ain't it great to have friends!!!

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 63a Serial number 37830

Stacks auction description below:

$5.00. Fr.63a. 1863. New Series 68. No.37830. Crisp Uncirculated. The corners are rounded and there are two enlarged pinholes at the left. (picture was not available) (01/16/2006) $1,840.

Lyn Knight auction 11/09/2007:

No picture available, but the same note was sold in a CGA GEM 67 holder for $5,290.00

UPDATED February 06, 2010

Fr. 61a Serial number 188

This is an opinion, a poor opinion, but an opinion none the less. But it most likely cost someone $1,500

In 2002 the note on top sold in a CGA GEM 66 holder in a Heritage auction on 2/21/2002, $4,025.00; description:

Fr. 61a $5 1862 Legal Tender Note CGA Gem Uncirculated 66

Along comes, most likely, a reasonable opinion and wala someone is screwed. This note not only has margin issues to be a gem, but also several corner issues. Once again the notes is in a Heritage auction PMG CH CU 64 on 04/30/2009 $2,530.00.

UPDATED February 05, 2010

Fr. 1173 Serial number H24851982

Fr. 1173 $10 1922 Gold Certificate Choice About New (05/01/2003) $661.25  Heritage auction

Fr. 1173 $10 1922 Gold Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 65 (01/08/2004) $1,150.00 Heritage auction

UPDATED February 05, 2010

Fr. 1173 Serial number H16161115

With this note, just about any reputable grading service would grade this note a CH CU 64. Nooo, not CGA. This note sold for over $3,100.00 on Ebay. Someone ig going to take it on the chin.. PS the note was sold raw in two high profile auctions as CH CU.

UPDATED February 04, 2010

Fr. 2301 Serial number L10391933A

Fr. 2301 $5 1934 Hawaii Federal Reserve Note. CGA Choice Uncirculated 64. 01/10/2004 HERITAGE

Fr. 2301 $5 1934 Hawaii Mule Federal Reserve Note. PMG About Uncirculated 55. 01/11/2009 HERITAGE
Decent centering is seen and the color is bold on this lightly traveled note.

UPDATED February 04, 2010

Fr. 2307 Serial number K37697356A

Someone must have forced this one to be graded reasonably!!

September 8, 2004 Heritage

Fr. 2307 $5 1934-A North Africa Silver Certificate. Gem Crisp Uncirculated.
A perfectly centered example which has been graded as Gem Uncirculated 67 by CGA, a lofty grade indeed for a note of this issue.

September 21, 2008 Heritage

Fr. 2307 $5 1934A North Africa Silver Certificate. CGA Choice Uncirculated 64.
 

UPDATED February 04, 2010

Fr. 2309* Serial number *01072757A

Fr. 2309* $10 1934A North Africa Silver Certificate. Extremely Fine.
While North Africa Star notes can be located with some ease in anything of the VF level or below. In this state of preservation they present a difficult challenge, indeed. The example we offer for consideration by the collecting fraternity tonight has only a few light folds and enjoys some claim to being categorized as About Uncirculated.$414.00 (01/13/2005)

Same note now in a CGA GEM 65 holder on Ebay on July 23, 2009 $1,381.77

UPDATED February 03, 2010(evening)

Fr. 2402* Serial number *00394184A

Fr. 2402* $20 1928 Gold Certificate. Very Fine-Extremely Fine. (05/05/2005)

$632.50 Heritage auction

Fr. 2402* $20 1928 Gold Certificate. CGA About Uncirculated 58. (01/06/2007)

$2,185.00 Heritage auction

Fr. 2402* $20 1928 Gold Certificate. PMG Choice Very Fine 35. 01/11/2010

$862.50 Heritage auction

Somebody made a lot and somebody lost a lot!!
 

UPDATED February 03, 2010

Fr. 2212-G Serial number G00178659A

August 18, 2006 was a day that will live in infamy. Bowers sold this note in a PCGS AU 55 holder see description below:

Lot # 5194
Fr. 2212-G. 1934A $1,000 Federal Reserve Note. PCGS Choice About New 55. Mule.

September 28, 2007, things changed. Heritage sold this note in a CGA GEM 66 holder. See description Below:

Fr. 2212-G $1000 1934A Federal Reserve Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 66.
 

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 248 Serial number 13718830

Well RAYAL454 on Ebay is at it again. On September 11, 2009 this note was in a PMG FINE 15 holder sold by Heritage.

Here comes a great opportunity for EASY Ebay. Now it's a RAW CHOICE EXTRA FINE+.

Holy cow batman profits galore!!!

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 1056 Serial number I116431A

Lyn Knight 10/16/2009 Grade: PCGS Ch. Abt. New 58

However, Lyn Knight sold this same note in auction on 06/16/2006 in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 102 Serial number Z6029559

Lot 3395 on (02/11/2007)

1880, $10 United States Note. CGA graded Gem Uncirculated 66. Fr-102. KL-368. This large brown seal Webster $10 comes from a run of high grade notes that has provided most of the surviving examples of this scarce number. It is as nice as any we've seen.
Estimated Value $3,500 - 4,500. Our item number 108180

Realized $2,800

On January 9, 2009 this note was sold in a CGA GEM 66 Holder.

Now enters CGA to get the premium from the last sale. Once again in April of 2008, the new owner of CGA, aka JVSCOINS sold this note on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder... It sold for $1,926.00

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 26 Serial number I116431A

Fr. 26 $1 1875 Legal Tender PMG About Uncirculated 55. The colors are perfect on this very nearly uncirculated 1875 Ace.
From The Thomas M. Flynn Collection

On July 20, 2008 per the census, this note was sold on Ebay by the now owner of CGA. aka (JVSCOINS) However, the note was now in a CGA CH CU 64 holder....

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 18 Serial number V8834644

Before I was a CGA CH CU 64 I was a lowly PMG VF 35.

UPDATED January 28, 2010

Fr. 18 Serial number A468324

On the infamous day of August 11/ 2000 Lyn Knight called this note AU and noted a corner tip fold. At that time the note was RAW, naked, no holder.

However, no to be outdone, CGA decided that this note deserved a GEM 66 grade, corner tip fold and all.

UPDATED January 27, 2010

Fr. 17a Serial number 262

Lot # 766 Fr. 17a. 1862, $1 Legal Tender Note. Serial #262. Series 126. Extremely Fine-45 (PCGS). (08/12/2005 $978.00)

Per the census this note was next seen on Ebay, sold by the new owner of CGA, (jvscoins) in a CGA AU 58 holder. (03/04/2008 $1,501.99)

UPDATED January 27, 2010

Fr. 16 Serial number 73143

Fr. 16 $1 1862 Legal Tender CGA Choice Uncirculated 64. (09/21/2005)

Fr. 16 $1 1862 Legal Tender PMG About Uncirculated 55. (April 30, 2009)

UPDATED January 26, 2010

Fr. 16 Serial number 73415

1862 $1 Legal Tender Note, Fr-16, Choice AU. A beautiful, crisp example with bright colors, bold embossing, and great eye appeal. This note would be CU but for a small fold in the bottom right corner.

Then, miraculously the note appears on Ebay, per the census in a CGA CH CU 64 holder...

UPDATED January 26, 2010

Fr. 16 Serial number 72603

Stacks auction description: $1.00. Fr.16. 1862. No.72603. Series 249. Choice About Uncirculated. Look at the stains in the left margin, all the rounded corners and poor left to right registration.

However, on 11/26/2006 and 01/16/2007, this notes was sold on Ebay as a CGA Gem 65.

UPDATED January 26, 2010

Fr. 16 Serial number 56

First description: Fr. 16 $1 1862 Legal Tender Choice New. Nice and bright, with three good margins but rather tight across the bottom. (09/09/004 $1,725.00)

Second time around: Fr. 16 $1 1862 Legal Tender Choice New. A very pretty, brightly colored Legal Ace with bold original embossing. It has three huge margins and would certainly grade higher if not for a tight bottom margin and a touch of trivial handling. (09/21/2004 $1,840)

Third time was the charm: Fr. 16 $1 1862 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. We sold this in our 2005 September Long Beach Signature Auction as lot 16603 where it was described, " A very pretty, brightly colored Legal Ace with bold original embossing. It has three huge margins and would certainly grade higher if not for a tight bottom margin and a touch of trivial handling." (09/16/2006 $3,450.00)

UPDATED January 26, 2010

Fr. 16 Serial number 1837

This note was in a Heritage auction on September 18, 2008 in a PMG AU 58 holder.

The next census sighting of this note was on Ebay just a few months later, 12/25/2008, by JVS Coins & Currency, I believe is the new owner of CGA. What a coincidence.

UPDATED January 25, 2010

Fr. 237 Serial number V28653187D

A picture is worth 1000 words. I won't even comment on the CGA "GEM 66".

UPDATED January 24, 2010 (Afternoon)

Fr. 823 Serial number F84335A

First description: Fr. 823 $20 1918 Federal Reserve Bank Note PCGS Extremely Fine 40 (01/04/2007)

Sometime thereafter: On Ebay, 1918 $20 FR-823 Federal Reserve Bank Note CGA CU64 (01/24/2010)

UPDATED January 24, 2010

Fr. 785 Serial number D253A

First description: Heritage/CAA 9/21/05:17453 (not sold) CGA 67 holder

Second description: Heritage 1/5/06:17813 @ $2,300 CGA 67 holder

Third description: AU per Sergio Sanchez 4/8/06 Mr. Sanchez can also see the center fold as I can. How about you?

Fourth description: Heritage/CAA 4/27/06:17259 "CGA CU 67" @ $2,640

UPDATED January 23, 2010

Fr. 1198 Serial number A259523

First description: Fr. 1198 $50 1913 Gold Certificate Extra Fine. 9/20/2002

Second Description: Fr. 1198 $50 1913 Gold Certificate Extremely Fine. 01/09/2003 $977.50

Third description: Fr. 1198 $50 1913 Gold Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. 09/21/2005 $4025.00

UPDATED January 23, 2010

Fr. 1173 Serial number H61767245

First description: Fr. 1173 $10 1922 Gold Certificate Gem New. But with simple visual inspection you can see stains along the bottom margin and a problem with the right lower corner. Sold for $1150.00 05/17/2002

Then, the transformation: 11/8/07:1891 "CGA CU 67" @ $2,645

UPDATED January 23, 2010

Fr. 1173 Serial number H39496203

First description: Fr. 1173 $10 1922 Gold Certificate About New sold for $553.00 5/6/2004

Check out the centerfold and the wiped out right lower corner.

Now for the transformation via magic a few months later...

Wala a GEM CGA 67

Second Description: Fr. 1173 $10 1922 Gold Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 67. The design of this strikingly attractive Gold Certificate is surrounded by large, even margins on both sides. The colors are spectacular. The note certainly appears to have earned its high third-party grade. $1955.00 9/9/2004

UPDATED January 22, 2010

Fr. 68 Serial number B336515

First description: "Gem quality, but a small, easily overlooked stain by the Treasurer's signature prompted our more conservative rating." Add the left to right poor margins and rounded corners and you get......

"CGA Gem Unc. 65" On Ebay

UPDATED January 22, 2010

Fr. 60 Serial number D69758905A

First Description: Heritage 5/5/05:16866 "Choice AU... center bend" @ $287.50

A few months Later.......and a bit cleaner....

Second Description: Heritage/CAA 9/21/05:16770 "CGA CU 67" (not sold)

UPDATED January 22, 2010

Fr. 26 Serial number K8209932

First description: Lyn Knight 8/18/06:5021 "AU... center fold" @ $1,150 (don't forget the very weak corners and toning stains)

Second Description: Heritage 1/4/07:14242 "CGA CU 65" just a mere few months later.

UPDATED January 22, 2010

Fr. 18 Serial number V8834644

First Heritage description: Heritage 5/4/00:6889 "EF... gently worn" @ $891.25

Second description: Currency Auctions of America 9/22/00:1375 "Choice New" @ $1,210

Third description: Heritage 5/9/07:12899 "CGA CU 64" @ $3,335

You can see the folds into the design!

UPDATED January 20, 2010

Fr. 907a Serial number A44670324A

First Heritage description sold for $241.50 01/13/2005: Fr. 907a $10 1914 Federal Reserve Note Choice About New. A broad corner fold is the only thing that keeps this broadly margined Boston Ten from the Gem grade.

Second Heritage description sold for $977.50  09/21/2005 :Fr. 907a $10 1914 Federal Reserve Note CGA Gem Uncirculated 66. A really handsome Boston Ten, with excellent margins and bright, strong color. The note certainly seems at a glance to be at least its full 66 designation.

UPDATED January 20, 2010

Fr. 853 Serial number C19953095A

Heritage auction description in 2002: "Fr. 853 $5 1914 Federal Reserve Note Choice About New. This original note has an extremely light center fold. It's represented in the census by about a dozen examples."

But then, in 2003 Lyn Knight sold this beauty in a SUPERB GEM 67, and I'll bet it looked a lot better.

UPDATED January 20, 2010

Fr. 1181 Serial number B5559887

The problems keep appearing and the amount of loss continues to climb. Some unknowing collector paid $4600 for this beauty in January of 2007. Then it was a CGA SUPERB GEM 67. But now it is a lowly PCGS AU 55 on Ebay for $1,799.00. If God would allow me those kind of profits, I could collect a multi-million dollar National Bank collection like someone else I know.

UPDATED January 03, 2010

Fr. 179 Serial number A355357

As you tiptoe through the tulips on this one... This is actually on the CGA website, at least for now. It is in a GEM 65 CGA holder on the site. This, of course was probably touted as finest known. History:

In the Stack's 3/15/90 sale it graded EF with one tiny pinhole

In the Knight 8/31/05 sale Lyn called it Choice CU

Now CGA Gem 65

Heritage/CAA 9/13/06:18666 @ $86,250

Look at the bottom margin.... Not Gem

UPDATED January 03, 2010

Fr. 1133bL Serial number L19961A

As you tiptoe through the tulips again on this one... This is actually on the CGA website, at least for now. It is in a GEM 65 CGA holder on the site. History:

Fr.1133bL       L19961A A       AU      Hickman & Oakes 6/25/86:405 "AU" @ $2,153

Goldberg sale, 2/11/07, lot 3676 as "CGA Gem CU 67", selling for $57,500

Heritage 5/9/07:13605 "CGA CU 65" @ $74,750

What will the CGA grade be tomorrow??

UPDATED December 28, 2009

Fr. 2402 Serial number A38716367

Found this on Ebay today. Look at the lower left obverse and you will see a corner tip fold. Also there appears to be a larger corner fold which can be seen on the lower obverse right. Not to mention that it appears to be pressed.

UPDATED December 22, 2009

Fr. 2408 Serial number A00087104A

Note the Heritage description below:

There will be no returns on this lot for any reason.

Fr. 2408 $1000 1928 Gold Certificate. CGA Choice Uncirculated 64.
This bright example has been off the market since late 2007. Its overprint is just as bright as the paper. A close examination reveals a center bend (fold for those in Rio Linda) and some rounding of the lower right corner. (Probably AU for those in Rio Linda).

This is one of the few CGA notes that Heritage has allowed in it's auction. To the best of my knowledge there is only one large type CGA note in the FUN Show auction and there are over 1,000.
 

UPDATED December 7, 2009 ADDENDUM DEC 10th

Fr. 248 Serial number 11989535

A good doctor at work... This note was in a heritage auction April of 2009. Then it was a bit more dirty and even some rust. More importantly, the note was in a PMG VF 30 holder. Now, Rayal454, is selling this cleaned up note on Ebay as an AU, "ALMOST UNCIRC.".  A further description states, "FINEST FR 248 I HAVE HANDELED W/PUNCH THROUGH EMBOSSING". This note is so flat, you can shave with it.

Check out the second note, the $100. That note is now spick-and-span, literally. Looks like a corner repair. This note was in a PCGS Fine 12 holder at the end of 2007. Now, it's a "STRONG MID-GRADE+" If you look closely you can see the age of the note by all the "crinkles" and folds, including the fading of color due to "clean-up"

UPDATED December 5, 2009

Fr. 253 Serial number E57082746

In May of 2007 this note was in a CGA CH CU 64 holder and offered on Ebay. Today the note is an AU 58. If you look at the left, center reverse you will see the fold/crease.

UPDATED December 4, 2009

Fr. 718 Serial number D3248828A

Here is an Unc note described by Heritage as, "separated from Gem by a light counting wrinkle".  Actually they should have said plural, "wrinkles". They missed the stains above the wrinkle and rounded corners,, but who's counting. Now comes CGA... Subjectively speaking, if you forget the wrinkles, the stains, and the rounded corner, you can get to the CGA grade of GEM 66.

UPDATED November 30, 2009

Fr. 48 Serial number A1965734

This note was documented in an October 2006 and then again in March of 2007 in Lyn Knight auctions. It did not sell in either sale. In the 2006 auction, the note was documented to have several pin holes and a corner tip fold. The note was in a CGA GEM 66 holder. The note was then offered in a May 2007 Goldberg auction for $2,530. Part of the description as follows, "A couple of minor corner bends are noted for accuracy.".

UPDATED November 30, 2009

Fr. 29 Serial number Z35335393

This note was documented to be purchased by Lipka, then owner of CGA, in an October 2006 Lyn Knight auction. It sold for $1092.50. At that time the note was also documented to have a fold into the design. Good doctor job. Knight described the note as GEM CU. The note was then installed in a CGA GEM 67 holder. The note was then offered in a May 2007 Goldberg auction for $2,185. Part of the description as follows, "A possible fold is barely visible at the bottom right". It was then listed on Ebay on July of 2007 in the 67 holder for a slim $5,500.

UPDATED November 26, 2009

Fr. 1178 Serial number C9390897

I'm gona go out on a limb here on this one. The horizontal fold is obvious as well as two vertical folds, center and right of center. Usually there with those type of folds there is a left of center vertical fold. This is not as obvious, but most likely. If that were the case, this would be a VF not AU 58. Best case is XF. OH, forgot the rounded corners and tip folds.

UPDATED November 21, 2009 AFTERNOON

Here is a raw note on Ebay described by the seller, RAYAL454 as a "PRISTINE ! 1934 1000.00 FEDERAL RESRV CHOICE UNCIRCIRC."

Notice the centerfold and corner fold on the lower right obverse.

Here is another from this seller today on Ebay, a $1 Educational that RAYAL454 graded "1ST "EDUCATION" 1896 1.00 SILVER CERTIFICATE ALMOST UNC" But I have found in the census that this note was sold in a Heritage auction as XF. Their description, "Fr. 225 $1 1896 Silver Certificate Extremely Fine." And Oh by the way it's been cleaned up"

UPDATED November 21, 2009

A CH CU 64 now.

A GEM 65 CGA in 2006.

A CH CU CGC in 2003.

Again, a CGA premium for overgrading!

UPDATED November 21, 2009

Anyone believe that the margins on this note are GEM 67? This sold for over $1,000 on Ebay in March, 2008 by, I think, the new owner of CGA and Ebay, handle JVSCOINS. The note is now being offered for 20% less on Ebay and that is way to much.

UPDATED November 20, 2009, Afternoon

Stacks auction description: "$2.00. Fr.767. 1918. No.G7004312A. Chicago. Crisp Uncirculated. Centered fairly well for this issue with the note a bit close at the top but not close to touching the design." They missed a few corner tip problems. But CGA says GEM 66

UPDATED November 20, 2009, Afternoon

Check out the reverse upper left corner and down that left side margin. Look at the foxing on the bottom. CGA graded this note as a GEM 66. This note ended up with a good friend of CGA, Porscheahmet on Ebay in August and September of 2008.

UPDATED November 20, 2009, Afternoon

Someone paid premium GEM money for a CH CU note. You ask why..... The upper right corner tip fold and the lower right messed up corner tip. That does not equal GEM.

UPDATED November 20, 2009, Afternoon

This note was sold in 2006 as a CGA GEM 65 graded note. However, in 2007, the note was graded by PMG as an AU 55. Otherwise known as not a GEM note.

UPDATED November 20, 2009, Afternoon

From the infamous Plymouth Rock collection comes this doctored rare note. This note was called CH CU by the auction house. On close inspection of the reverse left you can see the repair and slight change in the cut on that side. This note was later in auction as CH CU 64 in a CGA holder. Repairs do not matter. If you don't agree with me, Here is a comment from Lyn Knight, " Lyn Knight 3/9/07:231 "...margins trimmed".

UPDATED November 20, 2009, morning

In a Heritage auction on February 19, 2005, this raw note was described as follows: "Another very scarce district, with this note showing a bit of soil and a small ink mark in the back top margin."

About one year later this note was in a Heritage auction on January 7, 2006. Then the note was in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

Then the note was in a Lyn Knight auction and described as follows: "Grade: PCGS Ch. Abt. New 58".

Now, much to our surprise, the note is back in a CGA AU 58 holder which appears to be a holder from the new CGA grading service.

UPDATED November 18, 2009 Evening

Then 09/2007,  PCGS graded this note a VF 30, surely no one thought it could become Uncirculated; No one but CGA. NOW, on Ebay, the pictures show all the dirty work. Even the vertical fold can be seen in the Heritage auction picture. Not withstanding the several repairs that were made to the margins and corners. This was a part of a lot of three XF or less graded by PCGS. I'm sure the others will appear.

UPDATED November 18, 2009

Here is a nice note on Ebay that is in a PCGS AU 58 holder. However, the census shows that in 2007, on Ebay, this note was in a CGA GEM 66 holder, no surprise. You can see the corner fold in the upper left reverse of the note. When the Ebay seller was asked if there was a fold, this was the response, "According to PCGS that tip fold not into the design is what keeps this note from being a 65 PPQ !"

UPDATED November 15, 2009 EVENING

Well someone made a lit of money on this note and someone lost a lot. Heritage called this note and XF in an auction. Goldberg then sold this note in a CGA GEM 66 holder. Here is the Goldberg description:

Lot 3435

1899, $1 Silver Certificate. CGA graded Gem Uncirculated 66. Fr-226a. KL-41. A lovely Black Eagle.
Estimated Value $700 - 900.
Our item number 108436

Realized $1,150

As you can see to the left, the note is now in a PMG AU 58 holder on Ebay for $395.00. Someone screwed someone!!!

UPDATED November 15, 2009

Looking at the reverse of this note you can see why PMG gave the AU grade. However, on 4 previous occasions, the census shows this note attempted to be sold on Ebay in a CGA CH CU 64 holder.

UPDATED November 15, 2009

This is the Heritage description for this note when sold as a cut sheet in 2002, "Fr. 60 $2 1917 Legal Tender Cut Sheet of Four Very Choice New. Each of the notes is a crackling fresh, strictly original piece that approaches the Gem grade." Notice the word "APPROACHES"

In September of 2009, per the census, this note was sold on Ebay in a CGA GEM 66 holder.

We now find this note again on Ebay in a PMG 64 holder. I see a problem in the left margin and some corner problems and there is no EPQ designation.

UPDATED November 14, 2009

Found this on a chat room. The poster was kind enough to send me a bit better scan of the note. As you can see the CGA grade was CH CU 63. If you look at the PMG AU 55 holdered note, you can see the problems for yourself. CGA was always good for a AU grade to be adjusted upward to UNC.

Follow up email to me shows that CGA was overgrading in it's early years as noted by this CGA serial number, "The CGA # on my note is 0011,901 for your reference."
 

UPDATED November 12, 2009

In 2003 while CGA overgrading was blooming, this note appeared in a Heritage auction, RAW. Look at the raw note. Here is the auction description: "Fr. 2211-I $1,000 1934 Federal Reserve Note. Fine.
A couple of teller stamps, including a heavy purple one just to the right of Cleveland's portrait, limit the appeal of this otherwise scarce and desirable Minneapolis Thousand.

Now who bought this note and who had it doctored. I just might find that out.

UPDATED November 12, 2009

From the same dealer as the one above and below. This note has certainly been worked over. This note was sold in a Heritage auction in January of 2007. But then it was in a PMG Fine 15 holder. After being worked on, the note is now in a CGA XF 40 holder. I wonder who bought this note and fixed it up.

UPDATED November 12, 2009

From the same dealer as the one above and below. This note has certainly been worked over. The centerfold and upper margin have been repaired. No notation of the major repairs.

UPDATED November 12, 2009

This is an interesting note. There are several margin splits around the note, a few corner folder, centerfold, and foxing around the margins. So CGA AU 58. Most of this dealers notes are PMG and PCGS. Why note this one? This dealer almost strictly sold CGA notes. What happened?

The second $500, the lower one, looks like it has a good shot at VF. Look closely and you will see several horizontal and vertical folds as well as corner problems. But CGA AU 58, I don't think so!!! Oh, buy the way, this note was on Ebay in July of 2009 in a PMG 20 holder. Hey CGA that was close....

UPDATED November 11, 2009, EVENING

Lyn Knight, known for a bit loose in grading upon occasion, found this note on August 31st of 2008 to be graded RAW AU. Ah, CGA found otherwise, GEM 66.

UPDATED November 11, 2009

This note is in a CGA CH CU 63 holder that was made early on in CGA history with an 11,000 serial number. The note is part of a sheet that was reconstructed and sold in a  Bowers & Merena sale in 1997 and then again in a Stack's auction in January of 2001 and all sold as XF. A few months later this note was in a CGA CH CU 63 holder.

UPDATED November 08 2009

The most overgraded, fraudulent note that has come out of CGA. Just click on this note and observe this AU 50 graded CGA note for all the repairs of most of the margins, repair tares, looks like rebuilt corner. This note is most likely closer to a VG that anything.

I have seen this note personally and it is a complete mess, rare, but a mess.

UPDATED November 08 2009

Here is another like the one below. Someone is puffing up grades for buddies. This note was also sold on Ebay, a short two weeks after the Spinks auction (SOLD RAW) in a CGA CH CU 64 holder. Look at the thinly cut margins; picture from the Spink auction. Not a CH CU 64 by any stretch. Here is the Spink description:

Sale 292 Lot 2409

$1. Fr.236. 1899. No.V41089339A. Choice Uncirculated. Lovely, fully embossed original with unevenly cut top and bottom margins.

Today, the same note is again on Ebay in a CGA CH CU 63 holder....BUT, THIS WAS GRADED UNDER CGA'S NEW MANAGEMENT.

UPDATED November 06, 2009

This is the 3rd note of this set of 5 that I have come across sold in a Spink auction that was overgraded by CGA. In this case, the note was in a PCGS AU 58 holder on January 17, 2009 (see below). Then, only two weeks later is was in a CGA GEM 65 holder sold by a dealer/Ebay, centurycoll.  The note sold for $161.00 in auction, two weeks later it was worth $311.66.

Sale 292 Lot 2390. 17 Jan 2009 10:00 New York

$1. Fr.38. 1917 Mule. No.M28894259A-M28894263A. PCGS 55-58 PPQ. A seldom seen group of five consecutively numbered Serie...

$600 to $700

Today, the same note is again on Ebay in a CGA AU 58 holder....BUT, THIS WAS GRADED UNDER CGA'S NEW MANAGEMENT. Maybe there is hope

UPDATED November 09, 2009

The first serial number of this group of 5 notes was sold two weeks later by the then president of CGA on Ebay.

UPDATED November 03, 2009

Who owned the Plymouth Rock Collection

The owner of CGA back then

The history:

Sept 2005 Heritage, Plymouth Rock Collection  (RAW)

March 2007 Lyn Knight CGA 66

March 2008 Lyn Knight CGA 66

October 2008 Lyn Knight CGA 66

November 2009 Ebay CGA 66

$2 1899 MINI PORTHOLE CGA GEM 66 PLYMOUTH ROCK BEAUTY

Seller info

denoms ( 4992)

Is it really a GEM 66 or another fraud? Well look closely at the lower reverse left margin. A fold!!!! The note looks pressed to eliminate/hide problems.

UPDATE: 11/09/2009 Just received this:

"I used to own that note. Sold it to another Ohio dealer in late 2002, the St. Louis show in October. Yes, the corner fold is real, Vince. No mistaking it back then, although it appears to have been cleaned up since."

AND ANOTHER COMMENT RECEIVED:

"+ 2 corner tip folds"

UPDATED November 03, 2009

Heritage description of this note, "Fr. 60 $2 1917 Legal Tender Very Choice New. Strictly original, bright attractive and with decent margins for the issue. The slightly tight bottom margin is all that prevents the Gem grade."

Now, CGA decided to make a profitable opinion to make this note a GEM 65. It's not!!

UPDATED November 01, 2009

R.M. Smythe 6/17/05:2276 @ $258.75 (XF)

Heritage 1/5/06:17329 "CGA CU 62" @ $488.75

Six months later in a CGA holder, 50% profit....

UPDATED October 29, 2009

Per the census, this note was sold on Ebay recently by Mr. Lipka, previous owner of CGA, on 9/13/2009. However, the note was in a PMG AU 58 holder in a Heritage auction in 01/2009, this year. It appears that this note fixed itself and became UNC under Mr. Lipka's ownership!!!

$5 1878 LEGAL TENDER FLORAL SEAL CGA 64 NO RESERVE--- (EBAY HEADER)

Seller info

denoms ( 4922) Other item info Item number: 250494335261 Item location: east coast, United States

UPDATED October 29, 2009

Per the census, two of them, this note was in a CGA CH CU 64 holder. Now it's in a PCGS AU 58 holder.

UPDATED October 24, 2009

The first box description from a Smythe/Spinks auction in January 2009 is the sale of 5 sequential FR 38 notes graded by PCGS, all AU.

UPDATED October 27, 2009

In September of 2003 this note was sold for $4,887.00 as a GEM 65 in a CGA holder. It is now on Ebay in a PCGS AU 58 holder where the value has diminished considerably.

UPDATED October 24, 2009

Further proof of CGA's money grabbing ethics. I owned this note in a PMG AU 58 holder. I cut it out of the holder and put it in auction... Guess who bought it? Then it inserted into a CGA 66 holder. Please also notice, the seller intentionally messed up the reverse so you can't see the CGA number. This is a $200-$250 note. My customer paid $1500 when it was in the CGA holder the first time. Here is the census of this note:

PMG AU 58

per Vince Cavo 4/18/06; CGA CU 66

UPDATED October 24, 2009

In June of 2008 this note was in a CGC XF 40 holder. In September of 2009 this was in a CGA CH CU 64 holder. Stack's description:

$5. Fr.282. Silver Certificate. 1923. No.A2740939B. Plate C. Choice Uncirculated-64 (CGA).

UPDATED October 23, 2009 LIPKA HITS PAY DIRT,

AGAIN

In June of this year, this note did sell in a Lyn Knight auction, Lot 115, per the census. At that time it was in a CGA GEM 66 holder and did not sell. This is important as it may indicated the CGA holdered note and the note sold on Ebay were both owned by Lipka. As you can see, just a few months later the note is in a PMG CH CU 64 holder and Mr. Lipka sold this note on Ebay under his pen name Denoms.

Seller info denoms ( 4837)  99.9%   Ask a question See other items

How CGA grading compares to PCGS & PMG

UPDATED October 23, 2009

This note was sold in 2007 buy Heritage and it was in the holder you see to the right. Also, you can see why it is graded VF. But in July 2009 the note appeared on EBAY, CGA thought it would apply it's opinion and make this note an XF 45 and the seller made over 20% on the deal, or someone did.... Not bad if you do this 5,000 times in a few years.

UPDATED October 23, 2009

In 9/19/2008 this note was in a Heritage auction as a PMG AU 55 holder. Now it is in a CGA CH CU 64 in the most recent Stack's auction in September. The Stack's description:

UPDATED October 23, 2009

Prior to this note being in a CGA VF 30 holder, it was in a PMG VG 10 holder on 08/08/2008 on Ebay, sold by Blinzer, census confirmed.

UPDATED October 21, 2009

Census tells us all about CGA and this note:

FR 995 H9406079  PMG EF45  Heritage 04/19/08 Lot 15436

UPDATED April 23, 2009

CGA NOTES MIGHT WANT TO AVOID ON EBAY THIS WEEK AND RECENTLY:

1880 $1 FINEST KNOWN RED SEAL FR-34 CGA ULTRA GEM 67 PMG CH CU 64

BLAZZIN' BISON 1901 10.00 LEGAL TENDR CHOICE HIGH GRADE Nope

"ACE RAINBOW" 1869 1.00 LEGAL TENDER SUPERB HIGH GRADE UGLY

"RAREST SILVER" 1933 10.00 SILVER CERTIFICAT EXTRA FINE nope

POKERCHIP" 1923 10.00 LEGAL TENDER SUPERB HIGHER GRADE no way

TECHNICOLOR" 1905 20.00 GOLD CERTIFICATE XF/VF CONDITN NO way

PORSCHEAHMET 1862 $5 FR-61a FIRST USN NOTE CGA GEM 65 AU census

1918 CGA 67 FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE~ FR 713 ~ GEM UNC 67! AU

1917 GEM UNCIRCULATED $2 CGA-65 UNITED STATES NOTE  CH CU

PORSCHEAHMET 1928 B $1 SC FUNNY BACK CGA GEM UNC 68 centerfold

"KEY" 1934 A 500.00 FEDERAL RESRV CHOICE ALMOST UNCIRC. NOPE!!!

1914 $10 FR-912 Federal Reserve Note CGA SUPERB GEM 67 Corner fold

PORSCHEAHMET 1906 $20 Napier-Thompson Gold Cert CGA 65 AU

PORSCHEAHMET 1880 $10 USN GREAT LAKE COLLECTION CGA 66 AU

1917 $ 2 RED SEAL UNITED STATES NOTE CGA GEM 67 Don't think so

"KEY EDUCATION" 1896 2.00 SILVER CERTIFICATE EXTRA FINE NADA

"BISON" 1901 10.00 LEGAL TENDER CHOICE ALMOST UNCIRCLTD CGC 20

★R.U.$.C★ 1923 $1 'SILVER CERT' FR-239 *RARE GEM 65* PCGS CH CU 64

1918 $20 FR-823 Federal Reserve Bank Note CGA CU64 PCGS  XF 40

1906 $20 GOLD CERTIFICATE PCGS ABOUT NEW 55 FR 1181 WAS CGA 67

1922 $20 Gold Certificate CGA graded Crisp Uncirculated PCGS VF

1917 $1 UNITED STATES NOTE CGA GEM UNCIRCULATED 66 RARE AU census

fr-91 1907 $5 united states note,woodchopper Census XF

** 1914 $20 ** FRN ** ST. LOUIS ** CGA CRISP NEW 62 ** XF census

1899 $5 Silver Certificate CGA 65 Gem Uncirc. "Chief" No bottom margin

****STUNNING 1869 $1 RAINBOW LEGAL TENDER ***CU64 **** Census AU

1914 $20 FRN BLUE SEAL POP 9 UNCs CGA 67 GEM UNC NOT A 67

PORSCHEAHMET 1914 $100 PERFECT FRN B.FRANKLIN CGA GEM68 NOT A 68

PORSCHEAHMET 1914 $100 PERFECT FRN B.FRANKLIN CGA GEM68 not a 68

PORSCHEAHMET 1891 $20 FINEST KNOWN MANNING SC CGA 66 See folds

* 1923 $1 'SILVER CERT' *** CGA GEM NEW 66 EPQ *** see corner fold, spots

** 1869 $1 RAINBOW LEGAL TENDER **CU64 * Real Beauty** AU census

Series 1891 $1 Silver Certificate CGA AU 58 or CU? PCGS XF 45

1886 $10 Silver Certificate XF 45 CGA LOOK!! Was PMG VF 35

1923 $5 Silver Certificate Porthole AU 50 CGA LOOK!! At best XF 40

1890 $1 Treasury Note FR-347 Au 58 CGA LOOK!! See 3 folds on this XF

1874 $2 U.S. Note AU 58 CGA Legal Tender LOOK!! XF Census

1907 $5 Legal Tender Woodchopper Au 58 CGA 3 folds means XF

1880 $10 U.S. Note Legal Tender Au 55 CGA LOOK!!! See 3 folds on this XF

1901 $10 Buffalo U.S. Note XF 45 CGA WOW!!! VF CENSUS & PCGS

1914 $100 Federal Reserve Large Size Note Au 50 CGA XF Census and auction house

1862 $1 FR# 16 STUNNING CGA 68 GEM corner tip fold GEM 68 NOT

1880 $2 U.S. Note AU 50 CGA Legal Tender LOOK!! 3 folds...this is XF

1923 $1 U.S. Note Red Seal Au 58 CGA LOOK!! XF census

1902 $5 Plain Back National Utica # 1395 AU 50 CGA Doctored up good XF/AU

1902 $5 Red Seal National New York # 1370 Cu 62 CGA WAS PCGS XF 45

1918 $5 FRBN GEM UNCIRCULATED CGA 66 Previous AU circulated HERITAGE

1878 $5 UNITED STATES NOTE "Wood Chopper" CGA Gem 65 Was PCGS AU 58

1922 $10 Gold Certificate Ch. Unc CU 64 CGA WOW! Previous PMG AU 58

1880 $10 U.S. Note Extra Fine XF 45 CGA WOW!!!Previous PMG VF 30

1922 $100 Gold Certificate Au 53 CGA WOW! Previous PMG XF 45

1886 $10 Silver Certificate XF 45 CGA LOOK!! Previous PMG VF 35

Several other CGA notes look like problems to avoid EBAY SELLER krcllc

PORSCHEAHMET 1880 $1 USN LARGE BROWN SEAL CGA GEM 66 NR was CH CU64 CGA

Stunning ****Battleship**** Graded CGA 64 B 13022364 A AU census

Collectible 1923 $ 5 ***Porthole*** CGA 45 A 2696751 B VF, altered census

1896 $2 SILVER CERT FR-248 C.G.A@65 GEM UNCIRCULATED PMG AU 55 census

AHMET SANDIKCI 1899 $1 RARE FR-229 SC BLACK EAGLE CGA66 Corner fold

AMERICAS FIRST $2 BILL 1862 SERIAL 1 SERIES 1 PP #A OVERPRICED

1899 $5 SILVER CERT "" CHIEF"" CGA GEM UNCIRCULATED 65  AU corner fold

* 1918 $1 'FRNB' SOARING EAGLE **CGA GEM NEW 66 ** AU census

1922 $20 GOLD CERTIFICATE FR-1187C.G.A@66 GEM UNC CH AU census

1902-$10.00-LARGE-BANK OF COMMERCE ST. LOUIS-CGA EF 40 VF at best

1901 $10 UNITED STATES NOTE" BISON" GEM UNCIRCULATED 65 AU census

1914 $5 FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE CGA CHOICE UNCIRCULATED 64 AU census

1914 $5 FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE CGA GEM UNCIRCULATED 65 AU census

1914 $5 FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE CGA GEM UNC 65 CH AU census

* 1918 $1 'FRNB' SOARING EAGLE **CGA CHOICE NEW 64 ** was pcgs 63

* 1918 $1 'FRNB' SOARING EAGLE **CGA GEM NEW 66 ** ch au census

US Paper Money 1907 $5 US Note Woodchopper CGA CU66

1923 $1 SILVER CERTIFICATE CGA 67 SUPERB GEM

1917 $1 LEGAL TENDER (RED SEAL) CGA 66 SUPERB GEM

1902 $10.00 LARGE NATIONAL NOTE CGA ( THE BEST KNOWN ) nasty

1880 $5 LT WOODCHOPPER FR#80 CGA MS64 CH UNC AU census

1899 BLACK EAGLE SILVER CERT FR-227 GCA GEM 66 C-20 AU census

AHMET SANDIKCI 1934 A $10 FRN NY 2 CONSEC CGA GEM 65/64

PORSCHEAHMET 1901 $10 USN THE BEST MEGA BISON CGA GEM65

1880 $5 LT (WOODCHOPPER) BRUCE-WYMAN CGA 64 CU

1914 $5 FEDERAL RESERVE NOTE (NEW YORK) CGA 63 CU

PORSCHEAHMET 1928 E $1 SC TROPHY ISSUE F-B CGA GEM 66

CGA 65 GEM UNCIRCULATED 1891 $1 TREASURY NOTE MAYBE 66?

AHMET SANDIKCI THE BEST OF BEST 1899 $2 S/N 1 CGA 65

AHMET SANDIKCI 1899 $5 FINEST KNOWN FR-273 CHIEF CGA 68

Rare 1875 $5 United States Note CGA Gem Uncirculated 65

“DEAR ABE” 1918 $5 FRBN GEM UNCIRCULATED CGA 66 corner fold, spot

1918 $2 FRBN Battleship Cga Gem Uncirculated 66 # F22A rounded corners

PORSCHEAHMET 1966, STAR &1966a $100 DREAM CGA GEM68 SET

AHMET SANDIKCI 1905 $20 GOLD " TECHNICOLOR " CGA GEM 68

PORSCHEAHMET TURKEY 7.EMS 1 MILLION TL CGA GEM 68 CIL

AHMET SANDIKCI 1934 A $1000 THE " PERFECT " CGA GEM 68

AHMET SANDIKCI 1934 $1000 DGR " MINNEAPOLIS "CGA GEM 66

AHMET SANDIKCI 1902 $5 NBN FORESTVILLE N Y CGA GEM 67

1899 Fr-271 Chief $5 Silver Certificate. CGA 65 AU IN THE CENSUS

UPDATED October 14, 2009

Here is a cute one. Check out the date history of the sales. The final sale was a buddy of CGA, Centurycoll on Ebay.

CGA AU58 sold for $660.00 05/07/2009 Ebay

PCGS AU50 sold for $610.00 04/21/2009 Ebay

PMG XF40 sold for $603.75 01/11/2009 Heritage

UPDATED October 12, 2009

In 2002 this note sole in a Heritage auction as a Choice new with the comment of a poorly cut bottom margin. It sold for $1650. The bottom margin is almost non-existent. So a few years later, the note slithers into a CGA GEM 65 holder and sells for over $5,000. Now you know how people can build a Great National Currency collection off of screwed currency collectors! It's now on Ebay for $4200.

UPDATED September 18, 2009

Here is the census description from two different auctions concerning this overgraded CGA note, "VF/EF Spink America 12/3/96:part of 336; Lyn Knight 11/30/01:187 @ $1,540. It appears that the note was cleaned up a bit and fraudulently placed in a CGA AU 58 holder for profit.

UPDATED September 2, 2009

PORSCHE aka Ahmet Sandikci and CGA do it again for the collector. Look at the reverse lower left corner of the GEM 65 graded CGA note that has been "fixed". Pass on this one.... Update 12/7/2009. I had a well known national grader take a look at this one and he not only confirmed the one fold I see, but a possible second one.

UPDATED September 2, 2009

You can judge for yourself on this note that CGA says is VF. Small problem of about 50 folds, some rust forming and the center fold is about to split. Other than that the note is a GEM.

UPDATED August 31, 2009

We have found another EBAY CGA dealer to avoid, WOODY3882. He is selling obvious overgraded CGA notes. This one is an example:

Look at the reverse of this note. Several vertical folds, major corner folds, and a nice horizontal fold. That makes it a VF under ant standard grading schedule.  This seller is also selling several CGA GEM 67 notes that should be avoided.

The second note is also an obvious VF. Avoid CGA graded notes unless you offer 50% of the stated grade, and then that might not be to much!!!

UPDATED August 30, 2009

The Stack's auction came to the following conclusion:

UPDATED August 9, 2009

Read the boring description of this basic type note and look at the margins.

Fr. 995 $20 1914 Federal Reserve Note Gem New. This is one of the more common Twenties, and a very nice example to represent the type, as it should sell as a basic type note with no additional value attached for its number.

Now enters CGA, wizz bang, slam dunk GEM 67.. Holly cow Batman. CGA did what Heritage could not.. added additional value.. You lose.

UPDATED June 17, 2009

AHMET SANDIKCI AKA ARCADE CURRENCY PALACE SELLS OVERGRADED NOTES OFF HIS WEBSITE. I FOUND THIS CGA GEM 66 TODAY. HERE IS THE AUCTION HISTORY OF DOCUMENTED "AU" GRADE. "Bowers & Merena (ANA) 8/9/89:4499; Stack's (HH) 3/17/93:135 "AU" @ $525; Spink America (AS) 5/22/95:219 @ $1,980; Lyn Knight 8/31/05:1158

UPDATED June 16, 2009

AHMET SANDIKCI TRY'S TO SNEAK  ANOTHER OVERGRADED NOTE PAST THE COLLECTOR. LOOK CLOSELY  AT THE THAT LOWER MARGIN ON THE FRONT OF THE NOTE. AS YOU FOLLOW THAT ACROSS FROM RIGHT TO LEFT, NOTICE THE CUT HEAD TOWARD THE DESIGN. YOU WILL ALSO SEE THE SAME ON THE REVERSE TOP MARGIN. YOU CAN GET THIS OVERGRADED NOTE FROM SANDIKCI FOR A COOL $6,595,000.00.

UPDATED June 16, 2009

AHMET SANDIKCI TRY'S TO SNEAK  ANOTHER OVERGRADED NOTE PAST THE COLLECTOR. LOOK CLOSELY OVER THE "TWENTY" ON THE REVERSE TOP RIGHT. IN THE THAT UPPER MARGIN YOU WILL SEE TWO DISTINCT LIGHT FOLDS. AS YOU FOLLOW THAT DOWN, YOU SEE IN COMPARISON, A DISCOLORATION IN THE CENTER BOX, RIGHT VERTICAL LINE PART OF THE BOX CONTAINING THE WORD, "TWENTY". YOU CAN GET THIS OVERGRADED NOTE FROM SANDIKCI FOR A COOL $4,150,000.00.

UPDATED June 15, 2009

I can understand why this ebay seller, from New Jersey, is covering up the CGA ticket on the reverse. A CGA GEM 66 but. this note has a upper right reverse corner fold and the note has spots, not to mention the foxing on the top margin. If it were cheaper I would buy it and bring it to court for the lawsuits.

UPDATED June 3, 2009

 Lyn Knight 6/27/08:2016 "flat... there may be a vertical fold line at the left... CGA CU 64" @ $3,105

Don't you just love the CGA grading!!! Now it's on Ebay for $3,700.00.

UPDATED June 3, 2009

Lyn Knight description says it all: "This note was previously graded by CGA as '67' and we sold it in November 2005 for $1,547. PCGS didn't agree. It was part of a changeover pair that got broken up. Oops. Now it's a PCGS AU 58.  Looks like it might go for $275. Who got taken by the consumer fraud of CGA.

UPDATED May 28, 2009

This note was sold on ebay in July of 2006 as a PCGS XF 45 for $888.88. With fraudulent grading The leader of CGA at that time thought that this washed out XF note was worth a grade of AU 58 and is now back to ebay 5/28/09.

UPDATED May 27, 2009

IF YOU REALLY WANT TO SEE A FEW PEOPLE THAT LOST $1,000'S OF DOLLARS, CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO THE RIGHT. THERE YOU WILL SEE A NOTE GRADED, NOT ONCE BUT THREE TIMES BY TWO DIFFERENT AUCTION HOUSES AS AN AU NOTE. CGA MAKES IT A GEM 65 AND CLEANS UP AT THE COLLECTOR'S EXPENSE. THAT IS CONSUMER FRAUD!!!!

Here is the census data showing the grading:

Fr.122*

*428600B

D

Ch AU

Mule; Kagin's 6/15/84:1397; Lyn Knight 6/18/99:272 @ $9,900; CAA/Heritage 5/17/02:2460 "Choice AU" (not sold); LK 11/20/03:1672 @ $8,050; LK 6/10/04:1289; LK 11/18/04:2805 (not sold); "CGA CU 65"; Goldberg 9/13/06:4777 (not sold)

This note is a 1899 FR 122 star note, and it's history.

UPDATED May 11, 2009

A NEW RECORD FOR OVER GRADING; FROM A VG TO AU 50. SEE THE AUCTION DESCRIPTION BELOW.

$5. Fr.63. Legal Tender. 1863. No.79895. Plate C. Choice VG, or perhaps a trifle better by some standards. Evenly worn, with decent color and body remaining.

UPDATED May 10, 2009

Here we go with a new overgraded notes dumped on Ebay from seller Krcllc. This AU 58 is an XF in the census.

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. This one Was an XF at a Heritage auction. Here is their description, "Fr. 1098 $100 1914 Federal Reserve Note Extremely Fine. This Burke-Houston issue is three light bends from a fully Gem grade." So, why is this note in a AU 50 CGA holder. MONEY MONEY

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. This one Was an VF 30 at a Heritage auction in May of 2007. I believe it was also in a PCGS same grade. Here we now have the now on Ebay as a CGA XF 45. Here is the auction description, "Fr. 114 $10 1901 Legal Tender Very Fine."

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. Look at the reverse of this note and even you can see the three vertical folds. That means XF not CGA AU 50.

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. Look at the reverse of this note and even you can see the three vertical folds. That means XF not CGA AU 55. Corner work also.

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. This is a sick note previously graded in the census as XF. Not to be undone, CGA came up with a AU 58. Lot of other issues with this note.

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. This is a rare note. But it has three folds that if you look closely you can see on the reverse. Not to be undone, CGA came up with another overgraded AU 58.

UPDATED May 01, 2009

Here we go with a new ton of overgraded notes dumped on Ebay. This is an interesting note to grade. The more you look at it the more folds you find. A close look shows three vertical folds. There are also two large corner folds on the reverse top left, one into the design. Not AU material.

UPDATED April 24, 2009

This one was sent in from a viewer. Thanks, a CGA note graded AU 50, missed by a few points, now in a PMG XF 40. Any factual help to gather poorly graded CGA notes is always welcome.

UPDATED April 24, 2009

After taking a breather today and after finding so many fraudulently overgraded CGA notes, here comes another. First, this note was graded GEM 65 and sold in auction for $5,175 and you can see at least one fold in the holder. Now, the note is in a PCGS XF 45 holder for and estimated $1,500. See how much you lose when you buy CGA....  

UPDATED April 24, 2009

This note in a CGA GEM 68 holder has an obvious corner tip fold. On the lower reverse there also appears to be a closed pin hole, see the white spot....

UPDATED April 24, 2009

This note had no history in the census. It now does. There are three folds that can be seen on the reverse of that note making it, at best, XF. Another good doctor job before entering the realm of a CGA holder.

UPDATED April 24, 2009

In March of 2007 that note was an XF in auction and sold for $373.00. OK for an XF. That wasn't enough. Let's bump the grade and rip the collector!!!

UPDATED April 24, 2009

Want to see a great doctor job before going into a CGA holder, well here you are. Look at the extreme centerfold in the original note which was described in auction as XF/AU which usually means XF.

UPDATED April 24, 2009

Not to long ago this was a PCGS XF 45. But that wasn't enough for CGA to make a profit. Therefore the note needed to be a CH CU. Another rip-off for profit.

UPDATED April 21, 2009

ANOTHER STORY OF CGA MISDEEDS:

Heritage 5/1/03:28126 “Ch. AU… light fold”

Heritage 5/6/04:17788 “CGA 66”

You should look at the bottom margin in both sides and the top margin shows weakness; Then there is the fold to deal with.

UPDATED April 21, 2009

Check this load out:

UPDATED April 21, 2009

As you can see, this overgraded note is in a CGA GEM 66 holder that was sold in auction in September of 2006. However the poor collector had the note crossed to PCGS where it turned out to be an AU 58 in a Lyn Knight sale in February 2008.

UPDATED April 21, 2009

Fr. 27 $1 1878 Legal Tender Choice About New. This pretty note is held from the top grade by a single light center bend. (Heritage auction description 2003) $517.00

Fr. 27 $1 1878 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. $1,495.00

UPDATED April 21, 2009

Track the grading of this puppy!!!!

Fr. 230 $1 1899 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 66 2002

FR 230 $1 1899 Silver Certificate PCGS AU 58 6/01/2005 MINE

Fr. 230 $1 1899 Silver Certificate Superb Gem New. RAW-MINE)

Fr. 230 $1 1899 Silver Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 68.

Moral of this story, time improves notes and grades.....

UPDATED April 21, 2009

In 2005 this note was sold in auction in a PCGS CH CU 62. In January of 2008 some poor sucker paid over $17,000 for the overgraded CGA GEM 66. You can see the problems on the upper margin.

Goldberg 9/19/05:176 “PCGS 62PPQ”

UPDATED April 21, 2009

Fr. 365 $5 1891 Treasury Note Choice Very Fine. THIS IS AN AUCTION IN 2006.

Fr. 365 $5 1891 Treasury Note CGA Extremely Fine 45. THIS IS AN AUCTION IN 2008.

UPDATED April 20, 2009

Another AU sucked from an auction, cleaned up and ended up in a GEM 66 CGA over graded holder. In the old picture you can see the ware on the note and a fold is obvious on the obverse left. Below id the Auction house description in 2002:

Fr. 782 $5 1918 Federal Reserve Bank Note About New. A nicely margined, very lightly circulated example that has retained its original embossing.

UPDATED April 19, 2009

Here is an over graded note I just found on Ebay. This note has some pretty good history. It was previously owned by Jay Parino. Guess who bought all Jay Parino's notes for him? You only have one guess. Keep in Mind, It was in a CGA holder then, a PCGS holder and now, and back again in a CGA holder.

Below is the description from the Bowers & Merena auction in November of 2008, just a few months ago.

Lot # 5217
Fr. 69. 1878 $5 Legal Tender Note. PCGS Choice About New 58PPQ.

UPDATED April 17, 2009

Please note below the auction from Bowers & Marina. Then, through the power of greed.... a CGA CH CU 64.

UPDATED April 17, 2009

Once again the tail of the tape... First the note is a PMG VF 30, than with miraculous note deception, wala.. it's now a CGA XF 45.

UPDATED April 15, 2009

The VF 35 PMG graded note was in a Heritage auction in September of 2007 lot 15902 for $4600. Now through the magic of CGA, the note is now an XF 45, and on Ebay for $5800.

Here is another from the same Heritage auction:

Notice once again, in the auction the note is graded XF 40 by PMG but magically, now CGA makes it an AU 53. There are several other problem looking CGA notes that you might want to avoid in this Ebay group.

UPDATED April 12, 2009

Wanta get screwed again!! Just last year this note was a CGA CH CU 64 in a Heritage auction. It did have corner tip folds. Now CGA has upgraded this note for a dealer friend and it is now listed on Ebay.

UPDATED April 10, 2009

This is an example of a overgraded note in a CGA XF 40 holder. There are numerous vertical folds and a horizontal fold;  and I see most corners have a fold.  This note is also somewhat dirty. You will find this wonderful example of an overgraded CGA note on the website of David Lawrence a well known coin dealer. PS: it was recently graded by CGA.

UPDATED April 10, 2009

This is another example of a overgraded note in a CGA XF 40 holder. There are numerous vertical folds and a horizontal fold; dirt all over the note, and I see most corners have a fold.  You will find this wonderful example of an overgraded CGA note on the website of David Lawrence a well known coin dealer. PS: it was recently graded by CGA.

UPDATED April 10, 2009

This is an example of a overgraded note in a CGA XF 40 holder. There are numerous vertical folds and stains, and I see a few corners that have a fold. The note looks completely discolored. This note also appears to be about torn in half. You will find this wonderful example of an overgraded CGA note on the website of David Lawrence a well known coin dealer. PS: it was recently graded by CGA.

UPDATED April 10, 2009

Collectors note: This is an example of a very severely overgraded note in a CGA XF 40 holder. There are numerous vertical folds and at least two horizontal folds, and I see that a few corners have a fold into the design. This note also appears to be about torn in half. You will find this wonderful example of an overgraded CGA note on the website of David Lawrence a well known coin dealer. PS: it was recently graded by CGA.

UPDATED April 10, 2009

Collectors please note: This is another example of a very severely overgraded note in a CGA XF 45 holder. There are numerous vertical folds and at least one horizontal fold, and I see that each corner has a fold. This note has also been severely pressed. You will find this wonderful example of an overgraded CGA note on the website of David Lawrence a well known coin dealer. PS: it was recently graded by CGA.

UPDATED April 9, 2009

Well, you can even see the folds when the picture is terrible. On the reverse, look at the fold from about two inches in from the right top margin toward the left . The wonderful grade doesn't mention the dirt on the note in a few areas.

UPDATED April 7, 2009

Another most recently overgraded note produced by CGA. This one was called and AU by Heritage in April of 2008. Now it graces a CGA CH CU 64 holder. Below is the Heritage description.

Fr. 752 $2 1918 Federal Reserve Bank Note About New. The top margin is a touch close, and the note has a vertical fold that can barely be seen. Still, a handsome Battleship Deuce.

UPDATED April 7, 2009

OK folks, this AU 50 CGA graded note is a spectacle to look at. Setting aside the, at least three vertical folds, it appears that the upper right and lower left corners well into the design have been seriously messed with. Oh, by the way, the note was recently graded.

UPDATED April 5, 2009

This note was listed on Ebay in February and March of 2008. Then the note was in a CGA AU 53 holder. Now look at the PCGS grade, XF, three grades lower!!!  Additionally, the note is non-PPQ (ORIGINAL), so it is most likely pressed.

UPDATED April 5, 2009

You will find this CGA overgraded note in the Ebay Store of JVSCOINS. But it will be great to know that this note was in a PMG AU 55 holder, not to long ago. So there are several conclusions that can be construed by this overgraded note; like, who owned it and who regraded it?

UPDATED March 30, 2009

CGA and Porsche make more wampum by over grading notes for you. Look at the corner folds into the design. Look at the reverse, upper left and  lower right to see the pressed out folds.

UPDATED March 30, 2009

More of the same from CGA and Porsche on Ebay; corner folds; dirty; folds within the center of the note. This one is only $255,000.00.

UPDATED March 30, 2009

The Porsche has another overgraded CGA note on sale on Ebay. Look at the reverse; at least 2 folds from the top to the center of the note; corner folds on the top and bottom right; all rounded corners; I believe there are a few other vertical folds; not to mention the dirt on the note. For $20,000,000.00 how can you miss this one!!!!

UPDATED March 29, 2009

First auction description, "This beauty has two very light folds on its otherwise immaculate, original surfaces, but the look of the note is Superb."

Second auction description, "CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. A wonderful, fully margined, perfectly centered Educational Five that appears to have fully earned its third-party grade."

Third auction description, "PCGS Choice About New 58PPQ. One very light bend is the only flaw evident on this gorgeous Educational Five"

Need I say more!!!!

UPDATED March 29, 2009

Look at the reverse lower corner. You will see a fold into the design. There might also be a centerfold. This is a very good doctor job.

UPDATED March 20, 2009

CGA ties it's best overgrading of a note:

Stack's (Halpern) 3/17/93, lot 139 - (graded by Gengerke) as "Choice EF" and sold on the floor to Len Glazer

Lyn Knight 6/17/00, lot 249 - "Gem CU" - sold on the floor to Lipka

CAA/Heritage 5/5/05, lot 16925 -  "CGA Gem CU 67"

Heritage 9/17/08, lot 15288 - "PMG EF 45"

You can see the folds on the obverse picture if you look close. SO who made money here?
 

UPDATED March 19, 2009

Check this out:

Currency Auctions of America 5/19/00, Lot 1483 - Choice EF @ $8,800

Goldberg 2/11/07, Lot 3494 - CGA AU 58 @ $18,975

Heritage 1/8/09, Lot 15297 - PCGS EF 40 @ $10,350

If you look close on the reverse in the lower margin you can see the pressed out folds. I wonder who lost 1/2 of their money.

UPDATED March 19, 2009

And Stack's says, "Stack's 6/13/89, lot 2513 Choice EF... three vertical folds"

And CGA says, "Goldberg 2/11/07, lot 3431 CGA Gem Uncirculated 65"
 

UPDATED March 18, 2009

Lets grade this note together: pull up the reverse...

Large corner fold left top into the design.

Large corner fold left bottom into the design.

Vertical fold top to bottom, left side through the "TEN".

Vertical fold top to bottom, left side through the "SHIP".

Vertical fold top to bottom, right side between the "E" and "N" in "TEN".

Vertical fold top to bottom, right side just right of "TEN".

Horizontal fold right through the center of the reverse.

There appear to be several more vertical folds, but, I could only see and confirm them better with the note in hand.

I might just bid on the wonder....

UPDATED March 17, 2009

CGA didn't like PCGS's grade on this one, so they came up with their own CH CU 64:

CENSUS: PCGS 58PPQ

UPDATED March 17, 2009

CGA is pumping out the junk these days. Many recently overgraded notes are hitting the streets. Take this one as an example, look at the lower left corner that has a tip fold, and all the rounded corners. But the crem-da-la-crem:

Heritage 9/17/08:15313 "PMG AU 55" @ $3,565

UPDATED March 14, 2009

And the census says..."Currency Auctions of America 11/13/92:1894 @ $132; CAA 6/17/94:1996 "Ch AU" @ $121"

And CGA says...GEM uncirculated 65

Take a look at the reverse lower left corner that has a nice pressed out fold.....

SOMEONE IS DUMPING ALL IT'S JUNK!!!

UPDATED March 14, 2009

And the census says..."CH AU by three auction houses....Sergio Sanchez 10/26/00; Stack's 1/16/01:2624 (not sold); Spink/Smythe 7/16/08:1603"

And CGA says...GEM uncirculated 65

UPDATED March 14, 2009

And the census says..."R.M. Smythe 6/18/93:part of 1163 "Ch. AU"

And CGA says..."Lyn Knight 3/9/07:264 "CGA Gem Unc. 66" (not sold)"

If you closely at the reverse of this note, it appears to be very flat. Note the serial numbers. Could this note have been pressed after the 1993 auction, and before being carefully placed in a CGA holder?

UPDATED March 5, 2009

Another AU sold in auction that ends up in a CGA CH CU 64 holder and on Ebay for some one to get taken.

CAA/Heritage 9/26/03:2556 @ $460

UPDATED March 4, 2009

Further proof of CGA's money grabbing ethics. I owned this note in a PMG AU 58 holder. I cut it out of the holder and put it in auction... Guess who bought it? Then it inserted into a CGA 66 holder. Please also notice, the seller intentionally messed up the reverse so you can't see the CGA number. Here is the census of this note:

PMG AU 58

per Vince Cavo 4/18/06; CGA CU 66

UPDATED February 26, 2009

CGA AND THE ARCADE PALACE STRIKE AGAIN!!!

This note has at least 3 folds into the design that are note taken into consideration in the Overgraded CGA AU 58 grade. There are obvious folds in three of the 4 corners of the note not including the fold smack down the middle of the note. The buddies are workin together again to screw the collector!!!

UPDATED February 24, 2009

By the CGA serial number on the back, this one was recently graded... This is what Heritage graded the note in January 2006 FUN show:

Fr. 1703 $10 1934B Silver Certificate. Choice About Uncirculated.
A common enough note in all grades through Very Fine, but a truly scarce item once the higher grade levels are reached. But for a well hidden corner fold this note is New.

The fold, in the lower left reverse can be plainly seen.

Now the note, with fold included, is in a CGA GEM 65 holder.

CGA's dealer some how got another great deal like the one below. Where does he get all these deals!!! The seller on Ebay was JVSCOINS.

UPDATED February 24, 2009

Look at the reverse of the PCGS XF 45 holder then look at the reverse CGA GEM 67 holder. It appears to have been pressed before going into the CGA 67 holder.

 Look at my June 19, 2008 comment below. This note was pulled from a Lyn Knight auction then because the note was discover to have been in a PCGS XF-45 holder. Now the note is once again on Ebay, still in the known to be overgraded CGA holder. The seller on Ebay JVSCOINS is a well known CGA dealer. Here are the comments Jessie Lipka, CGA owner said at that time on Coin Universe blog. But the note remains in the CGA 67 holder...

"I just spoke with Lyn who is withdrawing it. He is getting a price on it from one who is a regular dealer consignor, and I will buy it off the market."

“I can sometimes get Lyn to pull a note, but I cannot force a consignor to send us a note for reexamination if he does not want to. I was not able to get the consignor to offer us the note. I will put in a bid.”

“The ebay seller was not Lyns consignor.”

Who was the consignor in June of 2008????

 

UPDATED February 16, 2009

"Formerly a CGA 66, don't worry about the grade on this one, it has all the appeal of a Gem!" Those are the comments of the seller at Eastcoastcurrency.com. The note is now in a PMG CH CU 64 holder...Ya gota see the margins on the reverse of this note!!!

UPDATED February 8, 2009

CGA strikes again. Another AU in a superb GEM 66 holder on Ebay for some unknowing collector to get screwed...

UPDATED February 8, 2009

CGA strikes again. Another AU in a superb GEM 67 holder on Ebay for some unknowing collector to get screwed...

UPDATED JANUARY 24, 2009

AHMET SANDIKCI OFFERS MULTI-HUNDRED THOUSAND AND MILLION DOLLAR NOTES THAT ARE VERY OVER PRICED. WHY: THESE SAME NOTES, UNDER THE BEST OF CIRCUMSTANCES ARE SO UNREASONABLY PRICED, ONE WONDERS IF HE IS REALLY NOT TRYING TO SELL THEM BUT HAVE ANOTHER AGENDA; LIKE, OTHER AUCTIONS HE LISTS ARE NO RESERVE $100 NOTES. I DON'T GET IT DO YOU?

SOME OF HIS OTHER CGA GRADED NOTES LISTED BELOW FROM SANDIKCI WERE ALSO, AT LEAST $100,000 UP TO MILLIONS AND THEY WERE KNOWN TO BE OVERGRADED...

IN THE CASE OF THE $5 CHIEF IN CGA 68, SANDIKCI OFFERS THIS NOTE FOR $20,599,000.00. EVEN IF THE NOTE IS A GEM 68, BUT I QUESTION THAT, UNDER THE BEST OF RECENT PRICES, THIS NOTE MIGHT GET TO $40,000.00, AND I NOT REALLY SURE IT WOULD GET THERE.

HOW ABOUT THE $100 RED SEALS WHICH MIGHT GO FOR A FEW THOUSAND, THE STAR SOMEWHAT MORE... BUT SANDIKCI OFFERS THE GROUP FOR A MERE $1,800,000.00. HOLLY CRAP!!

SO, WHY PAY FOR OVERPRICED CURRENCY?

UPDATED JANUARY 24, 2009

If you really want to be taken to the cleaners buy the highly overgraded CGA XF note. Just look at all the folds. This might get into a VF holder at best!!! Don't be a sucker!

UPDATED JANUARY 24, 2009

Thank goodness for visual effects. You can easily see the VF fold on the CGA graded XF 45 note. Make sure you pay VF money for this overgraded note....

 JANUARY 16, 2009

Found this overgraded CGA note on Ebay today. Take a look at the reverse bottom margin. This note is most likely a CH CU 64, if it is really UNC. However, CGA chose to put it into a SUPERB GEM 67. Well, so much for opinions.....

DECEMBER 24, 2008

Reverse Osmoses

On 08/06/2006, 06/03/2007, and 09/26/2007 this note was attempted to be sold on Ebay and an auction house. At that time, the census says that this note was in a CGA CH CU 62 holder. Now it is graded a bit differently by PCGS, a mere 8 grades less. It is now offered in auction and note the picture to the right. Note the auction house comments, "not readily evident through the holder."

Fr. 321 $20 1891 Silver Certificate PCGS Very Fine 35. The inks and colors are bold and bright on this Manning, and although a few folds are evident they are light and are not readily evident through the holder.

OCTOBER 14, 2008

Found this overgraded previously graded AU 58 on Ebay today. Take a look at the reverse fold around the number 1 on the right of the note. But in CGA's financial opinion, it's a CH CU 64.

OCTOBER 14, 2008

This peach is an AU in the census. But the thought of a profit at the expense of the collector was more prevalent to CGA.

UPDATED September 13, 2008

CGA LATEST CONSUMER FRAUD CASE INFORMATION

The reconsideration of the appeal to vacate was granted. It was granted on some what of a technicality. However, CGA was ordered to pay legal fees to the plaintiff for the appeal process, estimated at $8,000, and we will start over. 

When the CGA lawyer tried to tell that judge that grading of the note was subjective, the judge told the lawyer he saw the note.

There is no question that the note was repaired and it remains that way even though Lipka said it happened after he sold it to Trusted Traditions while it was still in the CGA holder.

Now, CGA will have to produce a lot of financial information at our request and we will have a real trial.

It is my understanding that the CGA lawyer said that CGA, i.e. Lipka will sue me for defamation.  GO for it. If he hasn't done it by now.....

Any questions, let me know. CGA did not win, the obvious will be decided in court one more time.

Someone please pass this to the PCGS boards and post this... Thanks
 

SEE BELOW

Report: Ahmet Sandikci Arcade Currency Palace

Category: ORGANIZED CRIME

Ahmet Sandikci Arcade Currency Palace Consumer Fraud, Deceptive Trade Practices, Investment Fraud Tarpon Springs And West Palm Beach Florida

Victim of this person/company?

Are you also a victim of the same company or individual? Want Justice? File a Rip-off Report, help other consumers to be educated and don't let them get away with it!

  

Ahmet Sandikci Arcade Currency Palace

 
  

 

 

UPDATED August 22, 2008

This magnificent CGA GEM 68 was graded by Lyn Knight in 1999 as AU... You can view it now in the September Heritage Long Beach auction.

"Lyn Knight 2/20/99:595 @ $770" $770 for this note should say something about the grade.

UPDATED August 22, 2008

BEFORE DESCRIPTION...Fr. 102 $10 1880 Legal Tender Very Choice New. Superb in every sense but for its margins. The right face margin and the center of the bottom margin are too tight for the top grade. The surfaces are perfect, the original embossing bold, and the colors are spectacular.
From the collection of Malcolm A. Trask. (MANY OF WHICH WERE PURCHASED BY THE OWNER OF CGA...

AFTER DESCRIPTION...Fr. 102 $10 1880 Legal Tender CGA Gem Uncirculated 65. Bright white paper provides a great canvas for the deeply printed design. The embossing is still visible in the holder.

UPDATED August 22, 2008

Before... CH AU...NASCA (Brookdale) 11/12/79:2509 @ $310

After...Fr. 1187 $20 1922 Gold Certificate CGA Gem Uncirculated 66. Vivid colors are seen on the face of this $20 Gold. The back design is quite bright, with a yellowish-orange hue.

UPDATED August 22, 2008

Take a look at the pressed out corner folds on this CH CU 63 CGA note. Don't you wish you could grade your junk this good!!!!

UPDATED August 6, 2008

CGA LOSES THE APPEAL TO VACATE THE CONSUMER FRAUD CASE!!! COLLECTORS REJOICE

UPDATED July 20, 2008

Today I will have several overgraded CGA notes that are being distributed by a coin dealer. These notes were being offered at a site called collectorscorner.com.

If you make an offer, be sure it is at least 50% less than the asking price:

The first is an FR 57 Graded GEM 66, of course. Look at the corners, well rounded and very soft. This is not the description of a woman!!

2. Here is a FR 18 CGA XF 45 but with a nice VF fold through the vertical center of the note.

3. His description: 1869, $2 FR 42 Rainbow Large Size Legal Rainbow CGA 40. This note is falling apart with many folds over the note. Look at the reverse.

4. Here is an FR 67 in CGA GEM 66 with a corner tip fold as seen on the reverse right of the note.

5.This FR 215 was sold in 2007 at a Scotsman as Choice for $1,552.50. Now in a CGA GEM 67 holder he wants a small profit of $7,500.00.

There were over 100 CGA graded notes, many of them unreported. That should scare the poop out of any buyer. Up until now the CGA distribution network dealers were making lots of money off the unknowing collector. The best way to solve this is not to buy from them.

UPDATED June 30, 2008

Well collectors, here is a note offered by Ahmet Sandiki aka PORSCHEAHMET on Ebay for a cool $12 Mil. Mr. Sandikci aka PORSCHEAHMET has been a distributer of the CGA product for quite some time. One problem, the note was bought by in July of 2004, Bowers & Merena auction, lot 1218, by guess who for $2760. The best news, it was graded CH AU by Bowers, "light center crease" i.e. FOLD. Now, the note has slithered into a CGA 65 GEM holder and someone will get screwed if they pay Porsche's price.

UPDATED June 30, 2008

Another overgraded note offered by Ahmet Sandikci aka PORSCHEAHMET on Ebay. This note was purchased by you know who, and slithered over to the dealer who knows how to increase value in overgraded currency. Here are the comments from the auction, and confirmed extremely pressed flat by a dealer who saw the note...

"Fr. 260 $5 1886 Silver Certificate Choice New. Unlike almost all of the notes from the Trask Collection, this one lacks the deep embossing and perfect paper surfaces."

UPDATED June 25, 2008

LOOK AT THIS HIGH GRADE CGA NOTE OFFERED BY Ahmet Sandikci ON EBAY. THE MARGINS ON THE TOP OF THE OBVERSE CLEARLY ALMOST CUT INTO THE DESIGN, AND THE NOTE WAS RECENTLY GRADED BY CGA. THIS GUY IN ONE OF THE FEW REMAINING DEALERS THAT WILL SELL OVERGRADED CGA NOTES FOR THE OWNER OF CGA.

UPDATED June 19, 2008

LOOK AT THE REVERSE OF THIS NOTE IN THE cga gem 67 HOLDER. THE NOTE WAS IN A PCGS XF HOLDER FIRST. PLEASE EXPLAIN THAT ONE TO ME!!!!!THERE IS A HUGE FOLD. THIS WAS ON THE PCGS CHAT ROOM AND HERE ARE THE COMMENTS. ALSO, THE NOTE WAS IN THE UPCOMING LYN KNIGHT SALE. WHAT A FRAUD.....THE NOTE IN THE MIDDLE IS THE CGA PICTURE FROM THE KNIGHT SALE.

Comments from the PCGS chat room boards:

That's Hilarious Bankrod and rpw

What I'm wondering is how this note managed to make it into a Gem-67 holder? How hard is it to detect a pressed note when it is unslabbed?

Personally, I can only think of 2 reasons
1. CGA is totally incompetent at grading notes
2. CGA personal note or favortism

Perhaps Jess can tell us if it was # 1 or 2 !!!

In defense of CGA, where does it say that a pressed/doctored note can't be graded CGA 67 ? - Nowhere that I know of. Grading services simply have different criteria. Some TPG's may or may not be consistent in the application of their criteria, that's for the buyers to figure out.

I'm done with this thread but thanks for the heads up.
 

Below is the comments from Lyn Knight sale:

A great type note that comes really pretty like this one with broad margins. Great signatures, but the embossing is absent. Graded Gem UNC 67 by CGA.

Current Bid: $2,400.00 Estimate: $4,000.00 - $6,000.00

THIS NOTE IS A $500 NOTE AT BEST FOR THE REAL GRADE AND $4,000 TO $6,000 IN A GEM 67 HOLDER. WHY DIDN'T THE AUCTION HOUSE SEE THIS PROBLEM AND DESCRIBE IT PROPERLY??????

UPDATED APRIL 26, 2008

CGA LOST THIS SUIT, "CONSUMER FRAUD, inaccurate, careless, reckless, and negligent". Those comments were in the court filing that the judge referenced when he found CGA liable on all counts in the decision. Other suits are in progress.

UPDATED APRIL 29, 2008

CAA/Heritage 5/6/04:17774 @ $2,760 This was an XF as noted in the auction sale. Someone thought it was XF, but not CGA. Moneybags made it an AU and some made a lot of money and someone lost a lot on money.

UPDATED March 04, 2008

Check the description of the cataloger that accurately describes this CGA overgraded note:

UPDATED January 04, 2008

When making decisions on which grading service to use, this is who you are dealing with when you select CGA:

Below is a letter to the Professional Currency Dealers Association to which the president of CGA is a member.

To Whom It May Concern:

 As a concerned PCDA member I would like to make a formal complaint regarding the increasingly nefarious tactics of  Mr. Jess Lipka. Although I have been aware of serious breaches of integrity in the past the most current method used to try and “hook” an unsuspecting client in an auction scheme is totally unacceptable. We cannot continue to look the other way as Mr. Lipka frequently pushes and bursts the integrity bubble.

 I realize that this is second hand information to some degree but it has been intimated to me that the tactics employed by Mr. Lipka were as follows:

That Mr. Lipka consigned notes known to be his by those who track this particular national region. Please see attached list. (not here)

That Mr. Lipka then employed unknowing “dupes”, who happened to be respectable dealers, to execute bids for him from the floor, in essence unknowingly shilling his notes from the floor, which is illegal in many states if I am correct. These items on the attached list were hammered to said dealers, reportedly executing Mr. Lipka’s bids, but were not awarded and listed as unsold lots in the prices realized. I believe this meets the textbook description of shill bidding. Please see attached list. (not here)

The party that provided this information may be willing to testify to the Board of the PCDA regarding the veracity of the information in this attached list.

I doubt anyone in the board is surprised by Mr. Lipka’s total lack of regard to anything but his own avarice. I believe all if not at least a majority of the current Board members have witnessed first hand Mr. Lipka bidding on his own material from the floor in past XXX (AUCTION COMPANY X'ed OUT BY ME) sales.

In closing I must say that Mr. Lipka should NEVER have been allowed into any organization, which stands for INTEGRITY and FAIR dealings with the public. The fact that he was once refused admittance, and then through a larger more apathetic membership slipped by the objection requirements, I realize should not be at issue here. What is at issue is the fact that an Organization designed to bring Ethics to this business, that most of our customers consider an enjoyable hobby, must be able to vet its own membership or that entire membership is tarnished by those with no regard for anything but amassing wealth at the expense of our membership and their customers.

 Sincerely,

UPDATED January 04, 2008

Check this 1132-J $500 note graded CGA CH CU 63. Look at the CENSUS description below, ALTERED DISCOLORED. EXTRA FINE. SOMEONE WORKED ON THIS NOTE AND CGA FORGOT TO LOOK IN THE CENSUS, OR, DID CGA BUY THIS NOTE AND CLEAN IT UP?????

EF per Dean Oakes; Bowers & Merena 11/6/02:6280 "nearly AU... aging... stains... discolored..." @ $17,250; (CGA CU-63); Lyn Knight 2/26/04:1730 "Ch. CU" @ $16,675

UPDATED December 19, 2007

This is worth another shot. The history: I sold this in auction for a customer. It was in a PMG AU 58 holder before I cut it out for the auction. The Heritage description is below. Notice, the word, "FOLD". Well if you are CGA, and you want to make some money the easy way, and you see a potential to disregard the fact that there is a fold in the note, you bid for the note in auction, win; you pay $402.50 and put it into a GEM 67 holder then try to sell it for $1,200 or more.

Another possibility, you are a buddy of CGA and you buy this note in auction and send it in for CGA grading. Accidently, the fold is, "overlooked". Either way, the collector looses.

Fr. 230 $1 1899 Silver Certificate Choice About New. Hugely margined, with deep original embossing and tremendous eye appeal. The note has a single, extremely light center fold. This is the first of two consecutive examples.

UPDATED December 09, 2007

Another sucker that overpaid for an overgraded CGA note. This guy paid over $3000 for this CGA AU55. Look at the folds in the reverse picture. At best this note is XF, but most likely a VF. Even though it is rare, at best worth $1000, maybe. CGA will eat high on the hog tonight...

UPDATED November 26, 2007

Now, the previous owner of this note said it was an AU and it went into the census that way. Why would the owner say it was an AU when CGA now says it's a GEM 65? Why, MONEY.

UPDATED November 24, 2007

This $1,000 bill got my attention on Ebay today. Look at this AU 50 CGA graded piece of junk then tell me it is overgraded within 5 grades of the real grade.

UPDATED November 16, 2007

I received this sales catalog developed by Ahmet Sandikci aka Porscheahmet. Let me revue a few CGA notes in the sales catalog:

Page 11 FR 64   CGA 68 $875,000--- CENSUS AU

Page 12 FR 19   CGA 68 $675,000--- CENSUS XF

Page 12 FR 104 CGA 66 $7,850,00--- CENSUS AU

Page 18 FR 225 CGA 67 set $28.5mil   CENSUS AU

Page 18 FR 269 CGA 67 set $28.5mil CENSUS, pinhole

Page 21 FR 231 CGA 68 $13,250,000- POOR Margins

Page 29 FR 122 CGA 67 $1,600,000--- CENSUS AU

Page 46 FR 772 CGA 67 Part of a $115,000,000 deal

I had the opportunity to buy this note when it was in a CGA 67 holder. It had to cross to PMG at least a 66. It was cut out. There is a obvious big fold in the lower reverse. The dealer sent it back to CGA and it went back into a CGA 67 holder.

UPDATED November 14, 2007

I once owned this note when it was in a CGA 64 holder as it states in the census. Well, lookie here. Now it is in a CGA 65 holder and still there is no top margin. I sold the note for $1,800 a few years back. WOW!!! Now it's $2,000,000.00. I should have been a CGA buddy!!!

UPDATED November 11, 2007

I was cruising Ebay this morning and came across wonderful overgraded CGA note. This is an AU in the  census. The seller most likely knows of the problem because it is being sold to $3500 less than the current average price.

UPDATED November 04, 2007

From the Bowers sale in Baltimore November 2007 a fantastic note. As noted by the seller, "Lot # 5349
Fr. 371. 1891 $10 Treasury Note. CGA Gem Uncirculated 65:" (THEY DON'T SHOW THE CGA HOLDER)

Minor detail, the census says, "EF+, p= pinholes, Stack's (JAS) 3/15/90:1723 "Choice EF... half dozen pinholes"

***NOTE*** MANY OF THE CGA LOTS IN THIS SALE ARE REJECTS FROM A Goldberg AUCTION ON 9/13/06.

UPDATED November 04, 2007

I was cruising thru Ebay today and came across this note graded by CGA a GEM 66. Only, the note is an AU in the census. Another Ebayer will be taken to the cleaners.

UPDATED November 03, 2007

Here is a collector that was taken to the cleaners by the CGA crowd. Now how can someone miss a grade from XF to GEM 66? To quote this collector, "These guys have hurt my pocket to the last dollar. I am having to live day by day and trying to take care of my kids. This sucks!!" What will it take to stop them!!!!
 

One CGA seller to consider avoiding from is Ahmet Sandikci.

UPDATED October 12, 2007

A NEWLY OVERGRADED NOTE FROM CGA... YOU DECIDE. CGA CALLS IT A GEM 66. HOWEVER LOOK AT THE TOP CORNERS FRONT AND BACK AND YOU WILL SEE CORNER FOLDS. LOOK AT THE REVERSE BOTTOM MARGIN, CUT ALMOST INTO THE DESIGN. WOULD YOU PAY GEM 66 MONEY FOR THIS NOTE?

UPDATED October 12, 2007

This CGA GEM 65 which is really a PRESSED XF has once again visited EBAY for your getting screwed enjoyment. Even the auction company called it AU...

UPDATED October 10, 2007

This is what a Ebay seller had on his description? Of course, the note is now in a AU PCGS holder. How much did he lose......

CGA SUPERB GEM GRADE 67 (TAB INCLUDED)

PCGS PPQ PREMIUM PAPER QUALITY

UPDATED October 10, 2007

THIS IS AN XF 40 IN THE CENSUS GRADED FOR A SMYTHE AUCTION. NOW A FANTASTIC CGA GEM 67.

UPDATED September 30, 2007

This CGA GEM 66 was graded AU by two auction houses. But who are they.... Buy CGA and Lose!!!

UPDATED September 13, 2007

Here  in another note I use to own that was in a PMG AU 55 holder. Guess who bought it and put it in a CGA GEM 65 holder and sold it to some unknowing collector!!!!

UPDATED September 13, 2007

Here it is again... Porsche is trying to sell a note that I used to own that was in a PMG AU58 holder. CGA hand holding and lots of hugs and kisses and being one of the few dealers that sell CGA notes must get you great grades from CGA.

UPDATED September 10, 2007

Stack's 9/9/87:651 "Choice AU... soft vertical fold" @ $687.50; That's the facts. However CGA has covered up the fact, or better yet hidden the fact of a fold in this CGA GEM 66. And it was just recently graded by the diligent staff at CGA.

UPDATED September 3, 2007

Well, the auction house had to really brighten this one up so you can see the folds. This is an XF/AU in the census, which really means XF. But, CGA found it necessary to improve the grade for financial reasons, and not your financial reasons.

UPDATED September 3, 2007

Let's examine a CGA note not in the census. Wow, a GEM 67!!! But, look closely; on the front right corner, notice the tip fold and it is more prevalent when you see it from the back; Now, look close at the back right corner; you can see another corner fold; Now, look at the registration on the reverse top to bottom; not ever close. At best, this note is a CH CU 64. However, the note appears to be quite flat making me think there are other hidden problems in the CGA holder.

UPDATED September 1, 2007

CGC, Dean Oakes, and Stack's agree that this note was a VF. But the CGA grading service says otherwise. Who do you believe?

UPDATED August 31, 2007

This is an interesting note. It is not in the census. However, it is graded a GEM 65 by CGA. But, look carefully at the reverse upper left corner. Do we see a corner fold? By golly we do. And this one was recently graded or should I say overgraded.

UPDATED August 28, 2007

You have to look at this one... The folds are so obvious all over the note and it's CGA AU 58. Actually, I'm surprised, for CGA, that's a low grade. They must be slipping. I suspect it is more like a pressed VF.

UPDATED August 24, 2007

Well, this one is an XF in the census. Bowers & Merena auction 11/29/01:5046 @ $1,265 SO, from an XF to a GEM 65 and the dealer only wants $7,300. What a deal!!!

UPDATED August 24, 2007

Well, here are a few more AU notes I put into auction that have ended up in CGA UNC holders. ALL of these were in PMG AU 58 holders, but greed made them UNC'S.

UPDATED August 18, 2007

This very nice looking note in a CGA GEM 66 holder happens to be an AU in the census; New England Rare Coin Auctions 7/21/78:802

UPDATED August 08, 2007

Here is a unique way to hide folds in a note; tone it up a bit. This beauty was sold by a very good grading auction house, as you can see, XF in 2003. R.M. Smythe 1/13/03:1218 @ $431.25 But now, along comes CGA and wala, it's unc. What else can a crook ask for!!!

UPDATED August 07, 2007

This one is really strange. Both census has this note as AU, but one has had the note in an CGA XF holder on two different occasions and now it's in a CGA GEM 65 holder. Someone must have watered it to grow like that.

UPDATED August 07, 2007

Well this collector got it put to him. This is an AU in the census. Now with the magic of GREED, CGA her transformed this note to a GEM. Two auction houses call this and AU, R.M. Smythe 6/13/03:2218 @ $977.50; Bowers & Merena/Lyn Knight 8/18/06:5021 @ $1,150.

UPDATED July 30, 2007

Ah, CGA thought they could fool you again with this $5 Ed. But, data has saved the day. The census has this note as AU dating back to a Lyn Knight auction in 1982. Look close at the reverse. You can see the fold down the center. DO you think Lyn made a boo boo... NADA. Don't get screwed by CGA.

UPDATED July 26, 2007

This bute is an AU in the census, now a CGA CH CU 64. I spoke to the census grader about this one and he said some reported a pressed out fold. Another from the dealer on Ebay that is selling several CGA overgraded notes, and has for several years.

UPDATED July 26, 2007

Very pretty overgraded FR 1187 AU note again offered in a CGA GEM 65 holder. This dealer on Ebay is selling several CGA overgraded notes, and has for several years. Although the dealer has an excellent return policy, by the time you find out you lost $2,000, it's to late.

UPDATED July 21, 2007

Below is the AU auction description of the note now in a GEM 66 CGA holder. Notice that the note is also described as "toned". I'm in the wrong business....

Fr. 216 $1 1886 Silver Certificate About New. The paper tone is a bit subdued on this otherwise attractive Martha Ace. This is the scarcer of the two numbers with the smaller Red Seal.

UPDATED July 21, 2007

Another AU in the census that has been graciously made to be GEM 66 By CGA.

UPDATED July 20, 2007

WHO DO YOU THINK LOST A TON ON MONEY ON THIS NOTE!!!