Grading Basics for Trading Cards and Comics
Professional grading means sending an item to a third-party company that assesses its condition, assigns a grade, and seals it in a tamper-evident holder. For trading cards and comics, grading can make it easier to sell and, for some items, add value. It also costs money and takes time, so it is not right for everything.
The main grading companies
Well-known names include PSA, Beckett (BGS) and SGC for trading cards, and CGC for comics, with CGC also grading cards. Each has its own scale, standards and reputation in different categories. Buyers in a given hobby often prefer certain companies, so check what is common for your items.
How grading scales work
Most use a 1 to 10 scale, where 10 is essentially perfect. Graders look at:
- Centering: how evenly the image sits within the borders.
- Corners: sharpness or wear.
- Edges: chipping or roughness.
- Surface: scratches, print defects, stains or creases.
Comics are also graded for page quality and structural issues such as spine stress and tears. Small differences in grade can mean large differences in price for desirable items.
Is it worth grading?
Ask yourself:
- What do raw (ungraded) copies sell for, compared with graded copies in the grade you realistically expect?
- What will grading cost, including shipping and insurance both ways?
- How long are current turnaround times, and can you wait?
Grading usually makes most sense for items that are valuable, in excellent condition, and in demand. Common items or those with visible wear often sell for less than the cost of grading.
Preparing a submission
- Read the company's current submission instructions and pricing carefully.
- Handle items by the edges with clean, dry hands.
- Use the sleeves and holders the company recommends.
- Pack securely and insure the package.
- Keep a list and photos of everything you send.
Buying graded items
Check the certification number on the grading company's website to confirm it matches the item and grade. Inspect photos of the holder for cracks or signs of tampering.
The short version
Grading provides a third-party condition assessment and a protective holder. Compare raw and graded sold prices, count all costs, and grade only items where the numbers make sense. Always verify certification numbers when buying.