Where Do I Grade My Pokémon Cards? A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing where to grade your Pokémon cards is a crucial decision that can significantly impact their value and perceived collectibility. The best answer, in short, is: it depends. It depends on the card’s value, its condition, your personal preferences, and your budget. The “big three” in the grading world are PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and CGC (Certified Collectibles Group), now known as CCG (Certified Collectibles Group). Each offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, so understanding their nuances is key to making an informed choice.
Understanding the “Big Three” of Pokémon Card Grading
PSA: The Industry Standard
PSA is widely regarded as the industry standard for Pokémon card grading. They utilize a 1-to-10 grading scale, with 10 being “Gem Mint.” Their reputation for historical data tracking and liquidity, combined with its massive market recognition, often results in higher resale values for PSA-graded cards. PSA is a division of Collectors Universe, which has offices globally. PSA is the clear leader in authentication and grading for trading cards and other collectibles, as the only third-party grading service to offer a guarantee on its services.
Beckett: For the Discerning Collector
Beckett Grading Services (BGS), now a part of CCG, is known for its meticulous grading process, which includes subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface. This comprehensive evaluation can appeal to collectors seeking a more detailed assessment of their cards. Beckett offers various tiers, including the coveted Black Label Pristine 10, awarded to cards that achieve a perfect 10 in all four subgrades.
CGC/CCG: The Rising Contender
CGC (Certified Collectibles Group), now known as CCG, has gained popularity in recent years, partially due to their stricter grading standards and lower cost, in many cases, than PSA. They use a 1-to-10 grading scale as well. While they might not command the same resale value as PSA in every situation, many collectors appreciate their rigorous approach and attractive, protective slabs. It is important to note that CCG’s market value and liquidity compared to PSA and Beckett can fluctuate and vary by card type.
Key Factors to Consider Before Grading
Before submitting your cards, consider these factors:
- Card Value: High-value cards benefit the most from grading, as the increased perceived value often outweighs the grading fees.
- Card Condition: Carefully examine your cards for flaws like centering issues, corner wear, edge damage, and surface scratches.
- Grading Costs: Fees vary widely depending on the company, service level (turnaround time), and declared card value.
- Turnaround Times: Grading can take weeks or even months, depending on the company and service level selected.
Home Grading: A Crucial First Step
Before sending your cards to a professional grader, it’s essential to perform a self-assessment. This will help you estimate the potential grade and determine if the card is worth grading.
Here are the key factors to consider:
- Centering: Are the borders evenly spaced?
- Corners: Are the corners sharp or do they show wear?
- Edges: Are the edges clean or do they have nicks or fraying?
- Surface: Is the surface clean and free of scratches or blemishes?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Pokémon Card Grading
1. How much does it cost to grade a Pokémon card?
Grading costs vary depending on the company and service level. PSA grading options range from roughly $25 to $600 per card. Beckett’s prices are typically around $22 to $500 per card. CGC/CCG may offer lower base prices but can still fluctuate based on turnaround time and declared value. Costs are also subject to change with the market.
2. Is it worth grading my Pokémon cards?
If the card is of significant monetary value, in near-mint condition (7 or higher, in most estimates), and/or has sentimental value that is important to you, then grading is the better option than keeping it raw. Vintage cards, even non-holos, can fetch good prices because there are less of them out there in good condition.
3. What is the highest grade a Pokémon card can receive?
On the PSA scale, the highest grade is a 10 (“Gem Mint”). Beckett offers a similar scale but also has the Black Label Pristine 10, which signifies a perfect 10 in all subgrades (centering, corners, edges, and surface).
4. How do I prepare my Pokémon cards for grading?
Handle your cards with care, wearing gloves if possible. Place each card in a soft penny sleeve followed by a rigid card saver or toploader. Ensure the card is clean and free of any loose debris.
5. How long does it take to get Pokémon cards graded?
Turnaround times vary significantly. Expedited services can take a few days, while bulk submissions can take several months. Check the grading company’s website for current estimates.
6. Can I get my Pokémon cards graded in person?
Yes, many grading companies, including PSA and Beckett, have booths at card conventions and trade shows where you can submit your cards for grading.
7. Which grading company is the strictest?
While subjective, CGC/CCG is often perceived as having the strictest grading standards, while PSA has the broadest market recognition, so consider your priorities when making your decision.
8. What is a “raw” Pokémon card?
A “raw” card is an ungraded card that has not been authenticated or encapsulated by a professional grading company.
9. What factors affect a Pokémon card’s grade?
Centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall eye appeal all influence a card’s grade. Any flaws, such as scratches, creases, or whitening, can lower the grade.
10. Can I grade my own Pokémon cards?
You cannot officially grade your own cards. However, self-grading is a valuable practice to assess the potential grade of your cards before submitting them to a professional grading company. Games Learning Society promotes informed decision-making in all aspects of collecting, and self-grading is an important skill.
11. What is the most expensive Pokémon card ever graded?
One of the most expensive and sought-after is the Pikachu Illustrator card. Graded versions of this card have sold for millions of dollars.
12. Do graded Pokémon cards sell for more?
Yes, graded Pokémon cards generally sell for more than raw cards, especially if they receive a high grade (8 or higher). The added protection and authentication from being in a graded card holder, and the increased resale value are due to collectors viewing raw cards as less worthy.
13. What does “centering” mean in Pokémon card grading?
Centering refers to the position of the image on the card. Ideally, the image should be perfectly centered within the borders. Off-center cards will receive a lower grade.
14. What is bulk grading, and is it worth it?
Bulk grading is a service offered by grading companies for submitting a large quantity of cards at a reduced per-card price. It’s worthwhile if you have numerous cards to grade and are willing to accept longer turnaround times.
15. Where can I learn more about Pokémon card collecting and grading?
Explore online forums, attend card shows, and consult reputable resources like GamesLearningSociety.org for valuable insights and information. Understanding the hobby and the market is key to successful collecting.
By carefully considering these factors and understanding the nuances of each grading company, you can make an informed decision that maximizes the value and collectibility of your Pokémon cards. Good luck!