How to Certify Pokémon Cards: A Comprehensive Guide for Collectors

The core of certifying Pokémon cards lies in submitting them to a reputable card grading service. These services meticulously evaluate the card’s condition based on criteria like centering, corners, edges, and surface, assigning a grade that reflects its overall quality. This grade is then encapsulated in a tamper-evident case, providing both protection and a verifiable assessment of the card’s condition, ultimately enhancing its value and collectibility.

Choosing the Right Grading Service

Top Grading Companies

When it comes to grading Pokémon cards, three names stand out: Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Collectibles (BGS), and Certified Guaranty Company (CGC Cards). These companies have established reputations for expertise, consistency, and security, making them the go-to choices for collectors worldwide.

• PSA: Often considered the industry standard, PSA is known for its stringent grading and wide acceptance within the collecting community. Its grades are generally well-regarded, and its slabbed cards are highly sought after by buyers.
• Beckett Collectibles (BGS): BGS is respected for its rigorous grading process, offering subgrades for each of the four key grading criteria (centering, corners, edges, and surface). This level of detail provides collectors with a more granular understanding of their card’s condition. BGS also has higher potential for value, but it is also harder to achieve perfect scores.
• CGC Cards: CGC Cards offers a more accessible entry point to card grading, often with lower grading fees and faster turnaround times. While some collectors perceive their grading standards as slightly more lenient, CGC’s reputation for quality and security is steadily growing.

Factors to Consider

Selecting the right grading service depends on your individual goals and priorities.

• Value: Research how each company’s grades impact the market value of the specific Pokémon card you intend to submit. Some cards may command a higher premium with PSA grading, while others might benefit more from BGS’s detailed subgrades.
• Cost: Grading fees vary significantly depending on the service level, card value, and turnaround time. Compare the pricing structures of PSA, BGS, and CGC Cards to find the most cost-effective option for your needs.
• Turnaround Time: The time it takes to receive your graded cards back can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the grading service and service level chosen. If you need your cards graded quickly, factor this into your decision.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best grading service for you is the one you trust and feel most comfortable with. Consider factors like customer service, online resources, and overall reputation when making your choice.

Preparing Your Cards for Submission

Condition Assessment

Before submitting your cards for grading, meticulously assess their condition using a jeweler’s loupe, ruler, and direct lighting. Pay close attention to the following:

• Centering: Ensure the card’s borders are evenly spaced and proportionate.
• Corners: Check for any signs of wear or damage, such as bending, rounding, or whitening.
• Edges: Inspect the card’s edges for nicks, dents, or fraying.
• Surface: Look for scratches, creases, print defects, or other imperfections on the card’s surface.

Handling and Protection

Proper handling and protection are crucial to prevent damage during the submission process.

• Wear gloves when handling cards.
• Use penny sleeves to protect the surface of each card.
• Place each sleeved card in a semi-rigid card holder or card saver.
• Pack the cards securely in a box with padding to prevent movement during shipping.

Submission Process

Creating an Account

Before you can submit your cards, you’ll need to create an account on the grading service’s website. This will allow you to track your submission, pay for grading fees, and receive updates on the status of your order.

Completing the Submission Form

Carefully fill out the submission form, providing accurate information about each card, including its set, card number, and declared value. The declared value is an estimate of the card’s worth, which will determine the grading fee and insurance coverage.

Choosing a Service Level

Select the appropriate service level based on your budget, turnaround time requirements, and the declared value of your cards. Higher service levels typically offer faster turnaround times and higher insurance coverage, but they also come with higher fees.

Payment and Shipping

Once you’ve completed the submission form and chosen a service level, you’ll need to pay the grading fees and ship your cards to the grading service’s designated address. Be sure to use a reliable shipping method with tracking and insurance to protect your cards during transit.

After Grading

Once your cards have been graded, the grading service will encapsulate them in a tamper-evident case and ship them back to you. The grade assigned to each card will be clearly displayed on the label, along with other relevant information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to grade a Pokémon card?

Card grading costs vary widely, ranging from around $18 to $600 per card. The price depends on the number of cards you submit, the desired turnaround time, the declared value of the card, and the specific grading service you use.

2. Is it worth it to grade Pokémon cards?

Grading Pokémon cards can increase their collectible value and provide protection against damage. However, whether it’s worth it depends on the card’s rarity, condition, and potential grade. For valuable cards in excellent condition, grading can significantly enhance their value.

3. What is the cheapest way to get Pokémon cards graded?

CGC Cards is often the least expensive option, offering competitive pricing and faster turnaround times. However, it’s essential to compare prices and services across all three major grading companies to find the best deal for your specific needs.

4. Which card grading service is best?

PSA is generally considered the most reliable grading company by many collectors due to its consistent grading process and widespread acceptance. However, BGS is also respected for its rigorous grading and subgrades, while CGC Cards offers a more accessible entry point.

5. How long does it take to get Pokémon cards graded?

Turnaround times vary depending on the grading service and service level chosen. They can range from a few weeks to several months. Expedited services are available for an additional fee, offering faster turnaround times.

6. Can I grade cards myself?

While you can assess your cards’ condition at home, you cannot officially grade them. Only reputable grading services like PSA, BGS, and CGC Cards can assign a recognized grade that influences the card’s value. You can still use a jeweler’s loupe, a ruler, and direct lighting to thoroughly examine the card and evaluate its condition.

7. How do you validate Pokémon cards?

Verify the card’s authenticity by comparing it to images online using a reputable Pokémon TCG database like the official Trading Card Database or pkmncards.com. Look for inconsistencies in font, color, and print quality. Also, check the Card Registration Number (CRN) on the card’s back against the PSA/DNA website (though note that this database may not be comprehensive).

8. Are any Pokémon cards worth money?

Yes, certain Pokémon cards are highly valuable, particularly Gold Star Pokémon cards and those from older sets. The Pikachu Illustrator card is widely considered the rarest and most expensive Pokemon card in existence. Card rarity, condition, and grade all contribute to a card’s value.

9. What do fake Pokemon cards look like?

Fake cards often exhibit poor print quality, with blurry borders, incorrect fonts, and faded colors. The card’s texture may also feel different from a genuine card.

10. Where can I check if my Pokemon cards are real?

Use a reputable Pokémon TCG database like the official Trading Card Database or pkmncards.com to compare your card to official images and verify its authenticity.

11. How do you grade a card?

Card grading is based on four key categories: centering, corners, edges, and surface. A higher numerical grade indicates a card in more pristine condition.

12. Do graded Pokemon cards lose value?

Graded Pokemon cards can lose value if their condition deteriorates while in your possession. Damage to the slab or the card inside can negatively impact the grade and reduce the card’s worth.

13. Is it hard to get Pokemon cards graded?

Grading can be both expensive and time-consuming, depending on the card’s value and the service level chosen. However, the process is relatively straightforward, involving submitting your cards to a reputable grading service and paying the required fees.

14. Where can I get cards graded in person?

Major grading companies like PSA and Beckett often have booths at trade shows and card conventions, allowing collectors to submit their cards for grading on-site.

15. Can you make money selling graded cards?

Grading and selling cards can be a profitable strategy, especially if you have a collection of cards in good condition. Higher grades typically command higher prices, allowing you to potentially earn a significant return on your investment.

The world of Pokémon card collecting and grading is a dynamic and rewarding one. By understanding the process, choosing the right grading service, and carefully preparing your cards for submission, you can increase their value and protect your investment for years to come. As the world of gaming continues to evolve, it’s important to learn more about how people learn through games. Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for fascinating research and insights.