First, please remember if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.  There are many unethical people who sell coins and misrepresent the truth.  The truth can be about the rarity, quality, value, etc...The truth can even be about how they represent themselves.  This is how I was deceived. 

The person claimed to be affiliated with many organizations and used the logos when advertising.  I did not take the time to check.  This was my fault.  You can already guess the person was not telling the truth.  

A legitimate and honest seller will not have to make false claims about affiliations.  In my opinion, the use of affiliations is aimed toward intentional deception by promoting themselves as reputable through these affiliations, when really they are not.  Yes, this is dishonest.  You can always go to the NGC, PCGS, ICTA, ANA and all the other websites to verify.  I highly recommend doing this as a "best practice" when researching the person you are communicating.  Do not take anything for granted unelss you have the time and $ to contest.  You will find it is much easier and less drama to spend 15 minutes than 100's of hours preparing notes and filing suites.    

Watch out!  Since there are several companies with the similar name, make sure the company with the affiliation is the same as the company you are checking.

So what happened when I was lied to and cheated.  Well, I exposed this person and company.  I filed claims and I was awarded the money owed, which they originally did not pay as they promised (get everything in writing.)  One of the members was removed from the ANA.  They had to remove their advertising logos because they were not authorized to use these logos (false advertising.)  I can go on and on. 

Verify the person who you are selling to or buying from to make sure they are legitimate and are not using affiliations to lure you in and deceive you of the truth.  If you have questions, please email or call us, we are here to help 888-714-1776.

Always get paid before you release any coins.  This will be a separate blog at a later date.  
Collect, invest and have fun.