Is it better to sell cards raw or graded?
Generally, graded cards sell for more money than those that are ungraded, but for some cards, the grading fees don’t justify the likely value unless the card receives a 10 Gem Mint grade. The decision to sell cards raw or graded ultimately depends on the specific card, its condition, and the target market, making it essential to weigh the costs and benefits of grading before making a decision.
Understanding the Basics of Card Grading
To navigate the world of buying and selling cards, it’s crucial to understand the basics of card grading. Card grading companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty) evaluate the condition of cards based on surface condition, corner wear, edge wear, and centering.
FAQs About Selling Cards Raw or Graded
1. Does Grading Increase Value?
Grading cards can increase their value, especially if they receive a high grade, as it provides authenticity and condition verification, making them more appealing to collectors and buyers.
2. Can You Sell Ungraded Cards on Ebay?
Yes, ungraded cards can be sold on Ebay, and it’s essential to accurately describe the card’s condition and include high-quality photos to attract potential buyers.
3. What is the Most Respected Card Grading Company?
PSA is generally considered the most respected and widely recognized card grading company, known for its rigorous grading standards and high-quality card holders.
4. How Much Value Does PSA Grading Add?
The value added by PSA grading can be significant, especially for rare and high-demand cards, with the difference between a PSA 9 and a PSA 10 grade potentially being tenfold or more.
5. Is PSA 8 Better Than Raw?
For modern cards, a PSA 8 grade may not be significantly better than a raw card in similar condition, as some collectors may prefer raw cards for their potential to grade higher.
6. Is PSA 9 Better Than Raw?
A PSA 9 grade is generally considered better than a raw card, but the gem rate of the specific card can influence its value, with some raw cards potentially selling for more than a PSA 9 if they have a high chance of grading PSA 10.
7. Is PSA Grading Worth the Money?
PSA grading is worth the money for cards that are likely to receive a high grade and have a high demand, as it can significantly increase their value and provide a high level of protection.
8. Can You Make Money Selling Graded Cards?
Yes, selling graded cards can be a profitable strategy, especially if you have cards in good condition that can receive high grades from reputable card grading companies.
9. How Hard is it to Get a 10 Graded Card?
Achieving a PSA 10 grade is extremely challenging, requiring impeccable centering, sharp corners, pristine edges, and flawless surfaces, with even the smallest imperfections leading to a lower grade.
10. What Does a PSA 4 Card Look Like?
A PSA 4 card will have noticeable surface wear, rounded corners, and light scuffing or scratches, with some original gloss retained, indicating a lower grade due to its condition.
11. Is BGS 9.5 or PSA 10 Better?
A BGS 10 is generally considered better than a PSA 10, while a PSA 10 is likely better than a BGS 9.5, due to the different grading standards and gem rates of each company.
12. How to be Successful Selling Cards on Ebay?
To succeed in selling cards on Ebay, it’s essential to create searchable titles, take high-quality photos, establish an inventory system, price competitively, and use the right shipping supplies to protect the cards.
13. Is Excellent Better Than Near Mint?
Near Mint and Excellent are both high grades, but Near Mint indicates a card that looks like it’s never been played, while Excellent may have minor flaws like tiny white specks on the edges or corners.
14. What Makes a Card Near Mint?
A Near Mint card displays minimal or no wear or damage, appearing “fresh out of the pack” with only minor chipping, indentation, or scratches, and no moderate or major signs of damage.
15. Can I Grade Cards Myself?
While it’s possible to grade cards yourself by evaluating their condition using a jeweler’s loupe, ruler, and direct lighting, it’s generally recommended to use a professional card grading company to ensure accuracy and authenticity.