You have probably seen graded cards selling for significantly more than their raw counterparts. But what exactly is card grading, and is it worth it for your collection? This guide covers everything you need to know before sending in your first card.
What is card grading?
Card grading is a professional service where a third-party company evaluates the condition of your trading card and assigns it a numerical grade, typically on a scale of 1 to 10. The card is then sealed in a tamper-proof case (called a slab) with a label showing the grade, card details, and a unique certification number. Grading provides an objective, standardized assessment of a card’s condition, which builds buyer confidence and often increases the card’s market value.
Major grading companies
The most recognized grading companies in the TCG hobby are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), BGS/CGC (Beckett Grading Services / Certified Guaranty Company), and ACE Grading. Each uses slightly different grading scales and criteria, but all are widely accepted in the market. For Pokemon and One Piece TCG, PSA and CGC are the most popular choices among Filipino collectors.
The grading scale explained
Most grading companies use a 1-10 scale. Here is a general breakdown of what the grades mean:
- PSA 10 / CGC 10 (Gem Mint): Virtually perfect in every way. Sharp corners, perfect centering, no surface flaws.
- PSA 9 / CGC 9 (Mint): Near perfect with only the slightest imperfection, such as minor centering offset.
- PSA 8 / CGC 8 (Near Mint-Mint): Very minor flaws visible on close inspection.
- PSA 7 and below: Increasingly noticeable wear, whitening, or surface damage.
The jump in value between a 9 and a 10 can be massive — sometimes a PSA 10 sells for two to five times (or more) the price of a PSA 9 of the same card.
What graders look at
Grading companies evaluate four main areas: centering (how evenly the card image is positioned within the borders), corners (sharpness and freedom from whitening or damage), edges (clean, smooth, no chipping or roughness), and surface (freedom from scratches, print lines, stains, or other blemishes). Each of these four areas contributes to the overall grade.
Should you grade your cards?
Grading makes the most sense when you have a high-value card in excellent condition, you want to sell and a graded card commands a significant premium, you want long-term preservation in a tamper-proof case, or you want authentication for a rare or vintage card. On the other hand, grading might not be worth it if the card’s raw value is low (the grading fee might cost more than the card itself), the card has visible flaws that would result in a low grade, or you are grading purely for personal collection and do not plan to sell.
Tips before submitting
Inspect your card carefully under good lighting before submitting. Look for surface scratches, whitening on corners and edges, and centering issues. Use a perfect fit sleeve inside a toploader or magnetic case when shipping your card to the grading company — you want it to arrive in the same condition you inspected it. Take photos before sending so you have a record of the card’s pre-submission condition.
Grading from the Philippines
If you are based in the Philippines, you can submit cards to PSA or CGC through group submissions organized by local card shops and communities. This is often more affordable than submitting individually since shipping costs and fees are split among the group. Keep an eye on local Facebook groups and community pages for upcoming group sub announcements.
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