How to Grade Pokemon Cards
Are you interested in unlocking the full potential of your Pokemon card collection? Learn how to grade Pokemon cards like a pro and get the best value for your prized collection.
Key Takeaways:
- Grading Pokemon cards can be done through reputable grading services like PSA, Beckett, or CGC.
- The cost of grading services can range from $25-50 per card, with a turnaround time of 2-3 weeks.
- In-person grading services can be found at hobby or card-collecting conventions.
- Asking for recommendations from employees at local trading card and hobby shops is a helpful way to find grading services.
- Grading companies use scales to evaluate different aspects of the cards, such as centering, corners, edges, and surface condition.
To grade Pokemon cards, you have the option to send them to reputable grading services such as Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA), Beckett Collectibles, or CGC Cards. These services typically cost $25-50 USD per card and take around 2-3 weeks to grade and return the cards. It is also possible to find in-person grading services at hobby or card-collecting conventions. Asking employees at local trading card and hobby shops for recommendations is another option.
Grading companies use scales to evaluate different aspects of the cards, including centering, corners, edges, and surface condition. There are three widely accepted grading companies for Pokemon cards: PSA, Beckett, and CGC. Each company has its own grading scale.
Grading Pokemon cards adds value to them and can be worth the cost. However, it is important to be aware of potential pitfalls, such as the risk of damage during shipping and the potential for fake cards in the market.
Why Grade Pokemon Cards?
When it comes to collecting Pokemon cards, grading services play a crucial role in determining their value and authenticity. By having your cards professionally graded, you can ensure that you have an accurate assessment of their condition and worth. But why should you consider grading your Pokemon cards?
- Firstly, grading services provide a standardized evaluation of your cards, giving you a clear understanding of their condition. This is particularly important for rare, valuable cards, as even slight differences in condition can greatly impact their market price.
- Secondly, graded cards come with a professional certification that guarantees their authenticity. This certification adds a layer of trust and assurance for potential buyers, especially in a market where counterfeit cards can be prevalent.
- Thirdly, graded cards are often more desirable to collectors and investors. The grading process enhances the overall presentation of the card, with encapsulation in a protective case that preserves its condition for years to come.
Grading services not only safeguard the value and authenticity of your Pokemon cards but also enhance their desirability in the market.
While there are costs associated with grading services and the process can take time, the benefits far outweigh these considerations. In-person grading services at conventions or hobby shops offer the advantage of immediate evaluation and consultation, providing you with expert recommendations on card preservation and potential value. However, if in-person grading is not feasible, you can still send your cards directly to reputable grading companies for evaluation.
By opting for professional grading services, you can unlock the true potential of your Pokemon card collection. Whether you are a serious collector or an investor, grading adds value, authenticity, and market appeal to your cards, ensuring that you make the most of your prized collection.
Comparison of Grading Services
| Grading Company | Cost | Turnaround Time | In-Person Grading | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA | $10-1,500+ | 20-45 business days | Available at conventions and select locations | Highly recommended for vintage and valuable cards |
| Beckett | $15-250+ | 10-40 business days | Available at select hobby shops and grading events | Popular choice for modern and sports cards |
| CGC | $10-500+ | 30-60 business days | N/A | Emerging option with a focus on comic books |
Choosing a Grading Company
When it comes to choosing a grading company for your Pokemon cards, there are three main players in the market – PSA, Beckett, and CGC – each with their own grading scale. These companies offer professional grading services for collectors who want to maximize the value of their cards.
PSA, or Professional Sports Authenticators, is one of the most well-known and respected grading companies in the industry. They use a 10-point grading scale, with 10 being the highest possible grade. PSA graded cards are highly sought after by collectors due to their reputation for accuracy and consistency.
Beckett Collectibles is another popular choice for grading Pokemon cards. They use a 10-point grading scale as well, but also provide subgrades for different aspects of the cards, such as centering and surface condition. Beckett graded cards often appeal to collectors who value the additional details provided by the subgrades.
CGC Cards, or Certified Guaranty Company, is known for their expertise in grading comic books, but they also offer grading services for Pokemon cards. CGC uses a 10-point grading scale and assigns a grade to the overall condition of the card. They also offer additional services, such as authenticating autographs and sealing the cards in tamper-evident holders.
| Grading Company | Grading Scale |
|---|---|
| PSA | 10-point scale |
| Beckett | 10-point scale with subgrades |
| CGC | 10-point scale |
When choosing a grading company, it’s important to consider your own preferences and priorities. Some collectors value the reputation and prestige of PSA, while others appreciate the additional details provided by Beckett’s subgrades. CGC may be a good option for collectors looking for comprehensive services beyond just grading. Whichever company you choose, grading your Pokemon cards can add value to your collection and help protect against counterfeit cards.
How Grading Works
When it comes to grading Pokemon cards, several key factors are considered to determine the overall grade and value of the card. Grading companies have specific criteria that they use to evaluate different aspects of the card’s condition. These criteria include scales, centering, corners, edges, and surface condition.
The grading scale typically ranges from 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest grade a card can receive. Centering refers to how well the card’s image is aligned within the borders. Cards with off-centering may receive lower grades. Corners are evaluated for any damage or wear, such as rounding or creasing. Edges are examined for any imperfections, such as dings or roughness. The surface condition is assessed for any scratches, print defects, or other issues that may affect the appearance of the card.
How Grading Works
| Grading Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Scales | Grading companies use a scale of 1 to 10 to assign a grade to the card, with 10 being the highest. |
| Centering | The evaluation of how well the card’s image is aligned within the borders. Off-centering may result in a lower grade. |
| Corners | Examination for any damage or wear on the card’s corners, such as rounding or creasing. |
| Edges | The assessment of the card’s edges for any imperfections, such as dings or roughness. |
| Surface Condition | The scrutiny of the card’s surface for scratches, print defects, or other issues that may impact its appearance. |
Grading companies employ trained professionals who carefully inspect each card and assign a grade based on their expertise and the established grading standards. The grades assigned to Pokemon cards by these companies can greatly impact their value in the collector’s market. Higher grades tend to command higher prices and are sought after by collectors looking to enhance the quality of their collections.
By understanding how grading works and being aware of the various criteria used by grading companies, collectors can make more informed decisions about the condition and value of their Pokemon cards. This knowledge can help collectors determine which cards are worth grading and investing in to maximize their collection’s potential value.
Benefits of Grading Pokemon Cards
Grading Pokemon cards not only enhances their value but can also make them worth significantly more. The process of grading involves sending cards to reputable grading services like Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA), Beckett Collectibles, or CGC Cards. These services use grading scales to evaluate different aspects of the cards, including centering, corners, edges, and surface condition.
By having your Pokemon cards professionally graded, you can ensure that their condition and authenticity are recognized and certified. This added assurance can attract serious collectors and investors who are willing to pay a premium for top-quality cards. Graded cards are often sought after for their rarity, as higher grades are harder to come by, making them even more valuable in the eyes of collectors.
However, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with fake cards in the market. Grading services play an important role in detecting counterfeit cards, as they have the expertise and tools to identify discrepancies in card quality and printing. By having your cards professionally graded, you can protect yourself from purchasing or selling counterfeit cards, ensuring that your collection maintains its value and integrity.
Comparison of Grading Companies
| Grading Company | Grading Scale |
|---|---|
| PSA (Professional Sports Authenticators) | 1-10, with 10 being the highest grade |
| Beckett Collectibles | 0.5-10, with 10 being the highest grade |
| CGC Cards | 1-10, with 10 being the highest grade |
In conclusion, grading Pokemon cards can offer several benefits, such as enhancing their value and attracting serious collectors and investors. Reputable grading companies like PSA, Beckett, and CGC provide certified evaluations based on strict grading scales. It’s important to be mindful of the risks of fake cards in the market and rely on professional grading services to safeguard the authenticity and value of your collection.
Finding Grading Services
If you’re looking for reliable grading services for your Pokemon cards, consider reaching out to employees at local trading card and hobby shops for valuable recommendations. These individuals often have firsthand knowledge of reputable grading companies and can provide guidance based on their experience and expertise. Their recommendations can help you find a grading service that meets your specific needs and preferences.
When seeking recommendations, be sure to provide employees with information about the type and condition of your Pokemon cards. This will enable them to make more accurate suggestions based on the grading services that specialize in grading Pokemon cards and have a strong reputation in the industry. Hobby shops and trading card stores are excellent resources for finding reliable grading services and ensuring that your cards are in good hands.
Employee Assistance
“The employees at my local hobby shop were incredibly helpful in recommending a grading service for my Pokemon card collection. They pointed me in the direction of a reputable company that specializes in grading collectible trading cards. Their knowledge and guidance were invaluable in ensuring that I chose the right service for my cards.” – Pokemon Card Collector
By relying on the expertise of employees at local trading card and hobby shops, you can save time and effort in finding a grading service that meets your needs. These individuals often have a deep understanding of the grading process and can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific requirements of your Pokemon cards. Whether you’re looking to enhance the value of your collection or ensure the authenticity of your cards, their assistance can prove invaluable in making informed decisions.
In addition to seeking recommendations from employees, you can also leverage online communities and forums dedicated to Pokemon card collecting. These platforms allow collectors to share their experiences and provide helpful insights into grading services they have used. However, it is important to exercise caution and verify the credibility of the information shared to ensure you make an informed decision.
Helpful Tips:
- Reach out to employees at local trading card and hobby shops for grading service recommendations.
- Provide details about your Pokemon cards to get accurate suggestions.
- Consider online communities and forums for additional insights, but verify the credibility of the information shared.
| Grading Company | Cost (USD) | Turnaround Time |
|---|---|---|
| PSA | $25-50 | 2-3 weeks |
| Beckett | $25-50 | 2-3 weeks |
| CGC | $25-50 | 2-3 weeks |
In-Person Grading vs. Sending Cards
When it comes to grading Pokemon cards, you have the choice between the convenience of in-person grading and the option to send your cards to professional grading services, but it’s important to weigh the associated risks.
One of the conveniences of in-person grading is the ability to have your cards evaluated on the spot. This allows for immediate feedback and the opportunity to ask questions about the grading process. Additionally, in-person grading gives collectors the peace of mind of knowing that their valuable cards are not being shipped and are in their possession at all times.
On the other hand, sending cards to professional grading services offers its own set of conveniences. It saves time and effort, as you can simply package your cards and send them off. These services often have well-established grading scales and experienced graders who can provide accurate assessments of your cards. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks involved in shipping. There is always a small chance of damage or loss during transit, and it’s crucial to package your cards securely to minimize these risks.
| In-Person Grading | Sending Cards |
|---|---|
| Immediate feedback | Saves time and effort |
| Opportunity to ask questions | Experienced graders |
| Peace of mind | Shipping risks |
Ultimately, the choice between in-person grading and sending cards depends on your personal preference and circumstances. If you value the convenience and immediacy of in-person grading, attending hobby or card-collecting conventions might be the best option for you. If saving time and effort is more important, then sending your cards to professional grading services is the way to go. Whichever method you choose, remember to take precautions when packaging your cards and consider insuring the shipment to protect against any potential loss or damage during transit. By weighing the conveniences and risks, you can make an informed decision and ensure the best outcome for your graded Pokemon cards.
Cost and Turnaround Time
Before diving into grading your Pokemon cards, it’s essential to consider the cost involved, which typically ranges from $25 to $50 per card, and the average turnaround time of 2-3 weeks. These factors can vary depending on the grading company you choose and the specific services you opt for.
Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA) is a popular choice for grading Pokemon cards. Their pricing starts at $25 per card for their regular service, but they also offer higher-tier options with faster turnaround times at an increased cost. Beckett Collectibles and CGC Cards are two other reputable grading companies, with pricing in a similar range.
When sending your cards for grading, it’s important to factor in the additional costs of shipping and insurance to protect your valuable cards. It’s advisable to use secure packaging and opt for tracking and insurance options to minimize the risk of damage or loss during transit.
While the cost of grading may seem steep, it’s worth considering the potential increase in value that graded cards can bring to your collection. Graded cards often command higher prices in the market, particularly if they receive a high grade. However, it’s important to do your research and ensure you’re dealing with reputable grading companies to avoid potential pitfalls such as fake cards or inconsistent grading practices.
| Grading Company | Pricing (Regular Service) | Turnaround Time (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| PSA | $25+ | 2-3 weeks |
| Beckett | $25+ | 2-3 weeks |
| CGC | $25+ | 2-3 weeks |
When it comes to the turnaround time, it’s important to keep in mind that grading companies often experience high volumes of submissions, particularly during peak seasons or when new releases come out. This can lead to longer wait times, so it’s advisable to be patient and plan accordingly.
Now that you have an understanding of the cost and turnaround time involved in grading Pokemon cards, you can make an informed decision on whether it’s a worthwhile investment for your collection. Remember to consider the potential increase in value, the reputation of the grading company, and the precautions needed to ensure the safe transit of your cards.
Conclusion
Grading Pokemon cards is a valuable endeavor that can unlock the true potential of your collection. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can confidently navigate the grading process and maximize the value of your prized cards.
To grade Pokemon cards, one option is to send them to reputable grading services such as Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA), Beckett Collectibles, or CGC Cards. These services typically cost $25-50 USD per card and take around 2-3 weeks to grade and return the cards. Alternatively, you can find in-person grading services at hobby or card-collecting conventions or seek recommendations from employees at local trading card and hobby shops.
Grading companies use scales to evaluate different aspects of the cards, including centering, corners, edges, and surface condition. It is important to note that there are three widely accepted grading companies for Pokemon cards: PSA, Beckett, and CGC, each with its own grading scale. Grading Pokemon cards adds value to them and can be worth the cost. However, it is important to be aware of potential pitfalls, such as the risk of damage during shipping and the potential for fake cards in the market.
Ensure that your Pokemon card collection shines by utilizing the grading services available and being cautious while navigating the market. With proper grading and authentication, your cards can reach their full potential and become highly sought-after treasures in the world of Pokemon collectors.
FAQ
How do I grade Pokemon cards?
To grade Pokemon cards, you can send them to reputable grading services such as Professional Sports Authenticators (PSA), Beckett Collectibles, or CGC Cards. These services typically cost $25-50 USD per card and take around 2-3 weeks to grade and return the cards. In-person grading services can also be found at hobby or card-collecting conventions. You can ask employees at local trading card and hobby shops for recommendations as well.
What criteria do grading companies use to evaluate Pokemon cards?
Grading companies use scales to evaluate different aspects of Pokemon cards, including centering, corners, edges, and surface condition. Each company has its own grading scale, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with their specific criteria.
Why should I grade my Pokemon cards?
Grading Pokemon cards adds value to your collection. It certifies the authenticity and condition of the cards, making them more desirable to collectors. Graded cards are often worth more than ungraded ones.
How can I choose the right grading company for my Pokemon cards?
There are three widely accepted grading companies for Pokemon cards: PSA, Beckett, and CGC. Each company has its own grading scale and reputation. It’s important to research and compare their services before deciding which one to use.
Where can I find grading services for my Pokemon cards?
You can find grading services by contacting reputable grading companies like PSA, Beckett, or CGC. Additionally, you can ask employees at local trading card and hobby shops for recommendations. They often have knowledge of reliable grading services.
What are the benefits of grading Pokemon cards?
Grading Pokemon cards adds value to your collection. Graded cards are often worth more than ungraded ones because they have been certified for their authenticity and condition. However, be cautious of potential fake cards in the market.
Should I choose in-person grading or send my cards for grading?
It depends on your preferences and conveniences. In-person grading allows you to have direct interaction with the grader and provides a quicker turnaround time. However, sending cards for grading can be more convenient if you don’t have access to in-person grading services.
How much does it cost to grade Pokemon cards, and how long does it take?
The cost of grading Pokemon cards typically ranges from $25-50 USD per card. The grading process usually takes around 2-3 weeks, but it can vary depending on the grading company and the number of cards being graded.
