The Ultimate Guide to Grading Your Pokémon Cards: Maximize Value and Protect Your Collection
Grading Pokémon cards can significantly increase their value, protect them from damage, and provide authentication. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, understanding the grading process is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from assessing your cards to submitting them to a reputable grading company.
## Why Grade Your Pokémon Cards?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s explore the reasons why grading is a worthwhile endeavor:
* **Increased Value:** A professionally graded card, especially one in pristine condition, can fetch a significantly higher price than an ungraded card. The grade serves as a guarantee of its condition.
* **Authentication:** Grading companies authenticate cards, ensuring they are genuine and not counterfeit. This is especially important for rare and valuable cards.
* **Protection:** Encapsulation in a tamper-proof case protects the card from damage caused by handling, humidity, and UV light.
* **Collectibility:** Graded cards are often more desirable to collectors, making them easier to sell or trade.
* **Preservation:** Grading preserves the card’s condition, ensuring it remains in its current state for years to come.
## Understanding the Grading Scale
Different grading companies use slightly different scales, but the most common is a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the highest grade possible. Here’s a breakdown of what each grade typically signifies:
* **10 (Gem Mint):** The card is virtually perfect, with flawless centering, sharp corners, smooth edges, and a pristine surface. There are no visible flaws under magnification.
* **9.5 (Mint):** The card is near-perfect, with only minor imperfections that are barely noticeable. Centering is excellent, and any flaws are minimal.
* **9 (Near Mint/Mint):** The card is in excellent condition, with only slight imperfections that do not detract from its overall appearance. Centering is typically very good, and there may be a few minor flaws on the surface or edges.
* **8 (Near Mint-Mint):** The card is in very good condition, with some minor imperfections that are more noticeable than those in a 9. Centering is generally good, and there may be some slight wear on the corners or edges.
* **7 (Near Mint):** The card is in good condition, with more noticeable imperfections. There may be some surface scratches, minor creasing, or wear on the corners and edges. Centering may be slightly off.
* **6 (Excellent/Near Mint):** The card is in decent condition, with visible imperfections. There may be some surface wear, creasing, or damage to the corners and edges. Centering may be moderately off.
* **5 (Excellent):** The card shows moderate wear and tear. There may be noticeable scratches, creases, or damage to the corners and edges. Centering may be significantly off.
* **4 (Very Good):** The card shows significant wear and tear. There may be major creases, scratches, or damage to the corners and edges. The card may be slightly warped or discolored.
* **3 (Good):** The card is in poor condition, with heavy wear and tear. There may be significant damage, such as creases, tears, or stains. The card may be significantly warped or discolored.
* **2 (Poor):** The card is in very poor condition, with extensive damage. The card may be missing pieces or be heavily stained.
* **1 (Authentic):** The card is genuine but is in extremely poor condition or has been altered in some way (e.g., trimmed, recolored). It is graded solely for authentication purposes.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Grading Your Pokémon Cards
Now, let’s delve into the detailed steps involved in grading your Pokémon cards:
### 1. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have the following supplies:
* **Soft, Clean Surface:** A clean desk or table covered with a soft cloth or mat to prevent scratching the cards.
* **Soft, Lint-Free Cloth:** For gently cleaning the cards. Microfiber cloths are ideal.
* **Magnifying Glass or Loupe:** To examine the cards closely for imperfections.
* **Good Lighting:** Natural light or a bright lamp to reveal surface flaws.
* **Card Sleeves:** To protect the cards during handling.
* **Semi-Rigid Card Holders (Card Savers):** For safely storing and submitting the cards.
* **Painter’s Tape:** To secure the card savers (avoid using regular tape, which can damage the cards).
* **Grading Company Submission Form:** Downloadable from the grading company’s website.
* **Shipping Materials:** Bubble wrap, a sturdy box, and packing tape for safe shipping.
### 2. Select the Cards to Grade
Not all cards are worth grading. Consider these factors when choosing which cards to submit:
* **Rarity:** Rare and valuable cards, such as holographic cards, first edition cards, and promotional cards, are more likely to benefit from grading.
* **Condition:** Only cards in excellent to near-mint condition are likely to receive a high grade. Examine your cards carefully for any flaws.
* **Market Demand:** Consider the current market value of the card. Cards that are highly sought after by collectors are more likely to increase in value when graded.
* **Potential Grade:** Realistically assess the potential grade of each card. A card with significant flaws is unlikely to receive a high grade, even if it is rare.
### 3. Evaluate the Condition of Your Cards
This is the most critical step in the grading process. Carefully examine each card, paying close attention to the following aspects:
* **Centering:** Centering refers to how well the image is aligned on the card. Examine both the front and back of the card. Look for equal borders on all sides. Use a centering tool, which you can print or find online, or use a clear ruler to measure. Centering is typically graded on a percentage basis. Common Centering Issues:
* **Top-to-Bottom Imbalance:** The image is shifted towards the top or bottom of the card.
* **Left-to-Right Imbalance:** The image is shifted towards the left or right of the card.
* **Diagonal Imbalance:** The image is shifted diagonally.
A card that is significantly off-center will receive a lower grade.
* **Corners:** Examine the corners closely for any signs of wear, such as rounding, fraying, or chipping. Use a magnifying glass or loupe to check for minor imperfections. Common Corner Issues:
* **Rounding:** The corners are no longer sharp and have become rounded.
* **Fraying:** The edges of the corners are frayed or damaged.
* **Chipping:** Small pieces of the corner are missing.
* **Whitening:** The color on the corner has faded or been rubbed off, revealing the white cardboard underneath.
Sharp, crisp corners are essential for a high grade.
* **Edges:** Check the edges of the card for any nicks, cuts, or wear. Use a magnifying glass or loupe to look for small imperfections. Common Edge Issues:
* **Nicks:** Small indentations or cuts along the edge.
* **Cuts:** More significant cuts or tears along the edge.
* **Wear:** The color on the edge has faded or been rubbed off.
* **Layering:** Separation of the layers of cardboard along the edge.
Clean, smooth edges are important for a high grade.
* **Surface:** Examine the surface of the card for any scratches, dents, creases, or stains. Use good lighting and a magnifying glass or loupe to reveal any flaws. Common Surface Issues:
* **Scratches:** Visible lines or marks on the surface of the card.
* **Dents:** Small indentations on the surface of the card.
* **Creases:** Folds or bends on the surface of the card.
* **Stains:** Discoloration or marks on the surface of the card.
* **Print Lines/Errors:** Lines or imperfections caused during the printing process.
* **Hazing:** A cloudy or foggy appearance on the surface of the card.
A flawless surface is crucial for a high grade.
* **Print Quality:** Check for any printing errors, such as misprints, missing ink, or blurred images. These errors can sometimes affect the grade of the card, but some errors are considered desirable variations. Common Print Quality Issues:
* **Misprints:** Errors in the printing process, such as incorrect colors or missing elements.
* **Missing Ink:** Areas of the card where the ink is missing.
* **Blurred Images:** Images that are not sharp or clear.
* **Registration Errors:** Misalignment of the different layers of ink during the printing process.
* **Gloss:** Cards with good gloss are viewed more favorably. Lack of gloss can come from surface scratches or wear.
### 4. Clean Your Cards (If Necessary)
If your cards have any dirt or fingerprints, you can gently clean them using a soft, lint-free cloth. Be very careful not to damage the surface of the card. *Only* attempt to clean a card if it has surface-level dirt. Do not attempt to remove ingrained stains or creases.
1. **Use a Soft, Lint-Free Cloth:** Use a microfiber cloth or a similar soft material.
2. **Gentle Wiping Motion:** Gently wipe the surface of the card in a circular motion.
3. **Avoid Excessive Pressure:** Do not apply too much pressure, as this can scratch the card.
4. **Do Not Use Liquids:** Never use water or other liquids to clean your cards, as this can damage them.
### 5. Choose a Grading Company
Several reputable grading companies specialize in Pokémon cards. Here are some of the most popular options:
* **PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator):** PSA is the most well-known and widely accepted grading company. Their grades are highly respected, and their holders are considered to be the standard in the industry. However, their turnaround times can be longer, and their fees are generally higher.
* **BGS (Beckett Grading Services):** BGS is another popular grading company that is known for its subgrades, which provide a detailed breakdown of the card’s condition. Their grades are also highly respected, and their holders are considered to be very secure. Beckett is known for its Black Label 10, awarded for cards with perfect subgrades.
* **CGC (Certified Guaranty Company):** CGC is a grading company that has been grading comics and other collectibles for many years. They have recently expanded into grading Pokémon cards and are quickly gaining popularity. CGC is generally considered to have stricter grading standards than PSA and BGS, but their fees are typically lower. In the Pokemon TCG world, it’s newer to the scene but it is one of the major players.
* **SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation):** SGC is another reputable grading company that is known for its consistent grading standards and reasonable fees. They have been grading sports cards for many years and have recently expanded into grading Pokémon cards. It has a vintage feel, and many appreciate its aesthetic.
Consider the following factors when choosing a grading company:
* **Reputation:** Choose a company with a good reputation and a long history of grading cards.
* **Grading Standards:** Research the company’s grading standards to understand how they evaluate cards.
* **Fees:** Compare the fees of different companies to find one that fits your budget. Fees can vary greatly depending on the service level chosen (turnaround time, declared value). Be sure to check for membership fees.
* **Turnaround Times:** Consider the company’s turnaround times, especially if you need your cards graded quickly. Turnaround times can vary greatly depending on the company and the service level.
* **Holder Design:** Consider the aesthetic of the card holder. Some collectors prefer the look of one company’s holder over another’s.
### 6. Prepare Your Cards for Submission
Carefully prepare your cards for submission to ensure they arrive safely and in good condition.
1. **Sleeve Each Card:** Place each card in a soft, acid-free card sleeve to protect it from scratches.
2. **Place in a Semi-Rigid Holder:** Place the sleeved card in a semi-rigid card holder, such as a Card Saver. These holders provide extra protection during shipping.
3. **Secure the Holder:** Use a small piece of painter’s tape to secure the card saver. Place the tape across the top opening to prevent the card from sliding out. *Do not* use regular tape, as it can damage the card.
4. **Organize Your Cards:** Organize your cards in the order you want them graded. This will make it easier for the grading company to process your submission.
### 7. Fill Out the Submission Form
Download the submission form from the grading company’s website and fill it out carefully. Be sure to provide accurate information about each card, including the set, card number, and desired service level. Most companies now have online submission portals. This information is usually available from the card itself or websites like TCGPlayer or Bulbapedia.
* **Service Level:** Choose the appropriate service level based on the card’s value and your desired turnaround time. Higher service levels typically have faster turnaround times but also higher fees. Value-based services will use your declared card value to decide the grading fees.
* **Declared Value:** Accurately declare the value of each card. The grading company will use this information to determine the insurance coverage for your submission. Undervaluing the card can leave you underinsured.
* **Special Instructions:** If you have any special instructions for the grading company, such as a request for a specific grader, write them clearly on the submission form. Note that graders typically do not fulfill such requests.
* **Return Shipping Address:** Provide your correct return shipping address. Double-check to ensure there are no errors.
### 8. Package Your Cards for Shipping
Package your cards carefully to prevent damage during shipping. Follow these guidelines:
1. **Use a Sturdy Box:** Use a sturdy box that is large enough to accommodate your cards and packing materials. A small, rigid cardboard box is ideal.
2. **Wrap in Bubble Wrap:** Wrap each card holder individually in bubble wrap to provide extra cushioning. Use multiple layers of bubble wrap for added protection.
3. **Fill Empty Spaces:** Fill any empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts or other cushioning materials to prevent the cards from shifting during transit.
4. **Seal the Box Securely:** Seal the box securely with packing tape. Use multiple layers of tape to reinforce the seams.
5. **Label the Box:** Clearly label the box with the grading company’s address and your return address. Consider adding “Fragile” labels to the box.
### 9. Ship Your Cards
Ship your cards to the grading company using a reputable shipping carrier, such as UPS, FedEx, or USPS. Choose a shipping method that includes tracking and insurance. Retain the tracking number for your records.
* **Insurance:** Purchase adequate insurance to cover the declared value of your cards. This will protect you in case the package is lost or damaged during shipping.
* **Signature Confirmation:** Request signature confirmation to ensure that the package is delivered to the grading company and not left unattended.
### 10. Track Your Submission
Track your submission online using the tracking number provided by the shipping carrier. This will allow you to monitor the progress of your shipment and ensure that it arrives at the grading company.
### 11. Wait for Your Grades
Once your cards arrive at the grading company, it will take some time for them to be graded. Turnaround times can vary depending on the company and the service level you chose. Be patient and wait for the grading company to contact you with your grades.
### 12. Review Your Grades and Value Your Cards
When you receive your grades, review them carefully. If you disagree with any of the grades, you can submit the cards for re-grading. Once you have your grades, you can determine the value of your cards based on their condition and rarity.
### 13. Store Your Graded Cards
Store your graded cards in a safe and secure location to protect them from damage and theft. Consider storing them in a display case or a safe deposit box.
## Tips for Maximizing Your Grades
* **Handle Cards with Care:** Always handle your cards with clean, dry hands. Avoid touching the surface of the card as much as possible.
* **Store Cards Properly:** Store your cards in acid-free sleeves and binders to protect them from damage.
* **Avoid Extreme Temperatures and Humidity:** Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage your cards. Store them in a cool, dry place.
* **Research Grading Standards:** Understand the grading standards of the company you choose to use.
* **Be Realistic:** Be realistic about the potential grades of your cards. Not every card is going to be a 10.
* **Consider Professional Advice:** If you are unsure about the condition of your cards, consider seeking advice from a professional grader or collector.
* **Document Everything:** Keep records of your submissions, including the cards you submitted, the service levels you chose, and the fees you paid.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
* **Submitting Cards That Are Not Worth Grading:** Only submit cards that are likely to receive a high grade and increase in value.
* **Undervaluing Your Cards:** Accurately declare the value of your cards to ensure adequate insurance coverage.
* **Improper Packaging:** Package your cards carefully to prevent damage during shipping.
* **Choosing the Wrong Service Level:** Choose the appropriate service level based on the card’s value and your desired turnaround time.
* **Ignoring Grading Standards:** Familiarize yourself with the grading standards of the company you choose to use.
## Conclusion
Grading Pokémon cards can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to preserve your collection, increase its value, and authenticate your prized possessions. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the grading process and maximize the potential of your Pokémon cards. Remember to be patient, thorough, and realistic, and you’ll be well on your way to building a valuable and impressive graded Pokémon card collection. Good luck, and happy collecting!