6 Steps to Get a Pokémon Card Graded

Pokémon card grading

Are you a proud owner of a rare or valuable Pokémon card? If so, you may be considering getting it graded. Grading is a process by which a professional assesses the condition of a card and assigns it a grade. This grade can help you determine the value of your card and can also make it more attractive to potential buyers.

There are a number of different companies that offer Pokémon card grading services. Some of the most popular include Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), and Certified Guaranty Company (CGC). Each company has its own grading standards, so it is important to research the different companies before you decide which one to use. Additionally, the grading fee will depend on the size of your card and the company you use. Be sure to factor this into your decision-making process.

Once you have chosen a grading company, you will need to submit your card to them. The company will then evaluate the condition of your card and assign it a grade. The grading process can take several weeks, so be patient. Once your card has been graded, you will receive a certificate of authenticity from the grading company. This certificate will include the grade of your card, as well as other information such as the date of grading and the name of the grader.

Understanding Card Grading Standards

Grading Pokémon cards is a meticulous process that assesses their physical condition and assigns them a numerical grade based on industry-established standards. These standards encompass several key factors that contribute to a card’s overall value and desirability.

Card Condition

The condition of a card refers to its physical integrity and lack of defects. Graders examine the card’s surface for scratches, dents, creases, or any other imperfections that may diminish its appearance. The corners and edges of the card are also carefully inspected for any signs of wear or damage.

Centering

Centering refers to how well the artwork is positioned within the card’s borders. A card with perfect centering has the artwork evenly distributed on both sides, top and bottom. Slight deviations from perfect centering can affect a card’s grade, especially if they are noticeable.

Surface Texture

The surface texture of a card is another important grading factor. Graders look for any imperfections or blemishes that may affect the card’s overall appearance. These imperfections can include print lines, scratches, or even slight discolorations.

Grade	Description
10 (Gem Mint)	Perfect card with no visible flaws
9 (Mint)	Near-perfect card with only minor, barely noticeable flaws
8.5 (Near Mint-Mint)	Very clean card with only a few minor flaws
8 (Near Mint)	Clean card with some minor flaws that are not easily noticeable

Selecting a Reputable Grading Company

When selecting a grading company, there are several key factors to consider:

Experience and Expertise:

Reputable grading companies boast a team of highly qualified individuals with extensive experience in the field. Look for companies that employ certified graders and have a proven track record of accurately assessing the condition and authenticity of Pokemon cards.

Reputation and Industry Recognition:

Established grading companies have earned a solid reputation within the collectibles community. Conduct thorough research online or consult with trusted collectors to gather feedback and assess the reliability of different grading services. Consider companies that have received accolades or recognition from industry experts.

Grading Standards and Consistency:

Reputable grading companies adhere to stringent standards to ensure consistency in their assessments. Review the grading scale and criteria used by different companies to determine if they align with your expectations. Pay attention to the level of detail in their grading reports and whether they provide specific feedback on the card’s condition.

Market Value and Liquidity:

The grading company’s reputation and recognition impact the market value and liquidity of graded cards. Cards graded by reputable companies are more widely accepted by collectors and dealers, commanding higher prices and attracting more buyers.

Additional Benefits:

Some grading companies offer additional benefits, such as insurance coverage for graded cards, online registries, and access to exclusive collector communities. Consider these value-added services when making your selection.

Grading Company	Years of Experience	Certified Graders
PSA	35+	20+
Beckett	30+	15+
CGC	15+	10+

Choosing the Right Level of Grading

The level of grading you choose will determine the cost of the service and the potential value of your card. There are three main levels of grading:

PSA Grading

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is the most recognized and respected grading company in the world. PSA grading is known for its accuracy and consistency, and PSA-graded cards typically sell for higher prices than cards graded by other companies. PSA offers three levels of grading:

PSA 10 Gem Mint: The card is in perfect condition, with no flaws or imperfections.
PSA 9 Mint: The card is in near-perfect condition, with only a few minor flaws.
PSA 8 Near Mint: The card is in excellent condition, with some minor flaws that do not affect its overall appearance.

Beckett Grading

Beckett Grading Services (BGS) is another highly respected grading company. BGS grading is known for its attention to detail, and BGS-graded cards often sell for higher prices than cards graded by other companies. BGS offers four levels of grading:

BGS 10 Pristine: The card is in perfect condition, with no flaws or imperfections.
BGS 9.5 Gem Mint: The card is in near-perfect condition, with only a few minor flaws.
BGS 9 Mint: The card is in excellent condition, with some minor flaws that do not affect its overall appearance.
BGS 8.5 Near Mint: The card is in very good condition, with some minor flaws that may affect its overall appearance.

CGC Grading

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) is a newer grading company, but it has quickly gained a reputation for accuracy and consistency. CGC grading is known for its high standards, and CGC-graded cards often sell for higher prices than cards graded by other companies. CGC offers three levels of grading:

CGC 10 Gem Mint: The card is in perfect condition, with no flaws or imperfections.
CGC 9.5 Near Mint+: The card is in near-perfect condition, with only a few minor flaws.
CGC 9 Mint: The card is in excellent condition, with some minor flaws that do not affect its overall appearance.

Grading Company	Levels of Grading
PSA	PSA 10 Gem Mint PSA 9 Mint PSA 8 Near Mint
Beckett	BGS 10 Pristine BGS 9.5 Gem Mint BGS 9 Mint BGS 8.5 Near Mint
CGC	CGC 10 Gem Mint CGC 9.5 Near Mint+ CGC 9 Mint

Preparing Your Card for Submission

1. Inspect Your Card Carefully

Examine your card thoroughly for any signs of damage, including creases, scratches, bending, or water marks. Minor imperfections may not significantly affect the grade but can still lower it.

2. Protect the Card

Once you’ve inspected the card, place it in a protective sleeve or toploader to prevent any further damage during handling. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

3. Gather Necessary Materials

Before submitting your card for grading, you’ll need to prepare the following materials:

Submission form
Shipping label
Payment for grading fees
Secure packaging for shipping

4. Package Your Card for Shipping

Double-sleeve the card: Place the card in a clean, new card sleeve, and then insert it into another card sleeve.
Use a protective toploader: Slip the dual-sleeved card into a sturdy toploader for added protection.
Secure the toploader: Wrap the toploader in bubble wrap or foam padding to fill any empty space.
Use a sturdy box: Pack the cushioned toploader in a sturdy cardboard box, ensuring it fits snugly without any movement.
Label the box properly: Clearly label the box with your name, address, and contact information, as well as the grading company’s return address.

Shipping Method	Recommended
Registered Mail	Yes
Insured Mail	Yes
Priority Mail	Yes
Standard Mail	No

Submitting Your Card to the Grading Company

Once you’ve chosen a grading company, it’s time to submit your card for grading. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Card

Before submitting your card, make sure it is clean and free of any dirt or debris. You should also avoid touching the surface of the card with your bare hands, as oils from your skin can damage the card.

2. Fill Out the Submission Form

Each grading company has its own submission form that you need to fill out. This form will include information such as your name, address, contact information, and the cards you are submitting.

3. Package Your Card

Once you have filled out the submission form, you need to package your card for shipping. Make sure the card is placed in a protective sleeve and then placed in a sturdy cardboard box. You should also include a tracking number so that you can track the progress of your shipment.

4. Ship Your Card

Once you have packaged your card, you need to ship it to the grading company. Be sure to use a reputable shipping carrier and purchase insurance to protect your card in case it is lost or damaged in transit.

5. Grading Process

Once the grading company receives your card, it will be processed for grading. The grading process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the grading company and the number of cards being submitted. During the grading process, the card will be examined by a team of experts who will assess its condition and assign it a grade. The card will be graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest possible grade.

Grade	Description
10	Gem Mint
9	Mint
8	Near Mint
7	Very Good
6	Good

Once the card has been graded, it will be returned to you in a protective case along with a certificate of authenticity.

Verifying the Authenticity of Your Grade

Once you receive your graded card, it’s essential to verify its authenticity to ensure it’s not a counterfeit or an altered submission. Here are some key steps to authenticate your grade:

1. Examine the Packaging

Inspect the packaging for any signs of tampering or damage. The case should be sealed with a tamper-evident sticker and the card should be securely held in place. If anything appears amiss, it’s advisable to contact the grading company for further verification.

2. Check the Label

The grading label should contain the card’s name, set, edition, and grade assigned by the company. Compare this information to your original submission to ensure there are no discrepancies.

3. Inspect the Card

Carefully examine the card itself for any physical alterations or signs of tampering. Look for color alterations, pixelation, or any damage that may indicate tampering with the card’s surface.

4. Verify the Certificate

If applicable, the grading company may provide a certificate of authenticity with the graded card. Check that the certificate matches the information on the label and the card itself. The certificate should include a unique serial number for easy verification.

5. Use Grading Company Resources

Most grading companies offer online databases or tools to help you verify the authenticity of a graded card. Enter the card’s information into these systems to check its status and ensure its grade matches the company’s records.

6. Consult a Reputable Source

If you have any doubts or concerns about the authenticity of your grade, it’s highly recommended to consult a reputable source such as a Pokemon card expert, collector, or experienced dealer. They can physically inspect the card and provide their professional opinion on its genuineness.

Displaying and Storing Your Graded Card

Once you have your prized card graded, you’ll want to display and store it properly to protect your investment and preserve its condition.

Protecting Your Card

Keep your graded card away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. These elements can damage the card and its case.

Displaying Your Card

Display your card in a safe and secure location where it won’t get knocked over or damaged. Consider using a display case or frame with UV protection.

Showcase Your Card with Acrylic Display Cases

Acrylic display cases are a popular choice for showcasing graded cards. They offer a clear view of the card while providing protection from dust and scratches. Choose a display case that is the right size for your card and has a secure closure.

Elegant Frames for a Sophisticated Display

For a more sophisticated display, consider framing your graded card. Choose a frame that complements the card’s design and provides adequate protection. Look for frames with UV-resistant glass or acrylic glazing to prevent fading.

Protecting Your Card with Sleeves

Before inserting your graded card into a display case or frame, place it in a protective sleeve. Sleeves help prevent scratches, fingerprints, and other damage to the card.

Preserving the Condition with Toploaders

Toploaders are rigid plastic cases that provide excellent protection for graded cards. They are ideal for long-term storage or transportation. Use toploaders that are the right size for your card and ensure a snug fit.

Safe Storage in Binders

If you have multiple graded cards, consider storing them in a binder with archival-quality pages. This will protect your cards from damage and keep them organized for easy viewing.

Understanding the Value of Graded Cards

Grading a Pokemon card is an essential step for collectors looking to preserve, authenticate, and enhance the value of their prized possessions. Graded cards are highly sought-after due to their verified condition and authenticity, making them a desirable investment. The value of a graded card depends on several factors, including:

Condition

The condition of the card is paramount. A higher grade indicates a card with minimal wear, creases, or bends, while a lower grade may indicate significant damage. Pristine cards in mint condition command a premium price.

Rarity

The rarity of the card also plays a significant role in its value. Rare cards, such as holographic cards, first edition cards, or cards featuring popular Pokemon, are more valuable than common cards.

Grading Company

The grading company that evaluates the card can also impact its value. The most reputable grading companies, such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS), are known for their strict standards and consistent grading. Cards graded by these companies are generally worth more.

Demand

The demand for a particular card can fluctuate based on its popularity among collectors. Cards featuring iconic Pokemon, such as Pikachu or Charizard, are always in high demand, which drives up their value.

Market Trends

The overall market trends for Pokemon cards can also affect their value. During periods of high demand, prices may rise, while during lulls, prices may decline.

Grading Fees

The grading fees charged by the grading company can vary depending on the card’s value, rarity, and the turnaround time required. Higher fees may be justified for valuable cards that require expedited grading.

Return on Investment

The return on investment (ROI) for graded Pokemon cards can be significant. While the grading process incurs a cost, the increased value of the card can often offset these expenses and result in a substantial profit.

Grading Company	Turnaround Time	Fees
PSA	10-30 days	$20-$1,000+
BGS	15-45 days	$30-$2,000+
CGC	15-60 days	$25-$1,500+

The Impact of Grading on Card Value

The grade assigned to a Pokemon card by a reputable grading company significantly affects its value in the collector’s market. A card with a higher grade is generally worth more than one with a lower grade. This is because a high grade indicates that the card is in excellent condition, with no major flaws or imperfections. Collectors are willing to pay a premium for cards that are in mint or near-mint condition, as these are the most sought-after and difficult to find.

Factors that Determine Card Value

The following factors can influence the value of a graded Pokemon card:

Factor	Impact on Value
Grade	Higher grades are worth more
Condition	Cards with no flaws or imperfections are more valuable
Rarity	Rare cards are worth more than common cards
Demand	Cards that are in high demand are worth more
Error cards	Cards with printing errors can be worth more than regular cards

Additional Tips for Getting a Card Graded

When getting a Pokemon card graded, there are several additional tips that can help you achieve the best results:

1. Use a reputable grading company.

There are many different grading companies out there, so it’s important to do your research and choose one that is reputable and has a good track record. Some of the most popular grading companies include PSA, BGS, and CGC.

2. Submit your card in a hard case.

This will help to protect your card from damage during shipping and handling. You can purchase a hard case from a grading company or from a hobby store.

3. Make sure your card is clean.

Any dirt or debris on your card will lower its grade. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe down your card before submitting it for grading.

4. Include a photo of your card with your submission.

This will help the grading company to identify your card and ensure that it is the same card that you submitted.

5. Be patient.

The grading process can take several weeks or even months. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get your card back right away.

6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

If you have any questions about the grading process, don’t hesitate to contact the grading company. They will be happy to help you.

7. Consider getting your card insured.

This will protect you in the event that your card is lost or damaged during shipping or handling.

8. Be aware of the grading fees.

Grading fees vary depending on the grading company and the level of service that you choose. Be sure to factor in the cost of grading when budgeting for your purchase.

9. Be prepared for the possibility of a lower grade.

Even if you think your card is in perfect condition, there is always a chance that it will receive a lower grade. The grading company will use their own criteria to determine the grade of your card.

10. Types of Card Damage

Edge Damage: Damage to the edges of a card, including nicks, tears, and dings.
Surface Damage: Scratches, scuffs, and other damage to the surface of a card, including creases and bends.
Corner Damage: Damage to the corners of a card, including rounded or bent corners and creases.
Centering: The alignment of the card’s artwork within the card’s borders, including top-to-bottom centering and left-to-right centering.
Bleed: Ink that extends beyond the intended print area, including smudges and streaks.
Print Defects: Errors in the printing process, such as misaligned ink, missing ink, or extra ink.
Holofoil Blemishes: Damage to the holofoil layer of a card, including scratches, dents, and creases.
Water Damage: Damage to a card caused by water or moisture, including warping, discoloration, and staining.
Fire Damage: Damage to a card caused by fire or heat, including burns and charring.
Altered Cards: Cards that have been modified or altered in any way, including trimmed edges, repainted surfaces, and added artwork.

How to Get a Pokemon Card Graded

Getting a Pokemon card graded is a great way to preserve its value and authenticity. Graded cards are also more likely to be sold for a higher price than ungraded cards. To get a Pokemon card graded, you will need to send it to a professional grading company, which will use a variety of factors to determine its condition and assign it a grade.

The first step in getting a Pokemon card graded is to choose a grading company. There are several different grading companies to choose from, including PSA, BGS, CGC, and HGA. Each company has its own grading standards and fees, so you will need to do some research to decide which one is right for you.

Once you have chosen a grading company, you will need to send your card to them. Most grading companies require you to submit your card in a protective case, such as a toploader or a card sleeve. You will also need to include a submission form, which will ask you for information about your card, such as its set, rarity, and condition.

The grading company will then take several weeks to grade your card. Once your card has been graded, it will be returned to you in a protective case, along with a grading certificate. The grading certificate will include the card’s grade, as well as a detailed description of its condition.