Grading
Card grading
Also called: grading
Grading is sending a card to a company that authenticates it and assigns a condition grade, usually 1 to 10, then seals it in a protective holder called a slab.
When you grade a card, a professional service checks that it is genuine and judges its condition across factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface. It returns a numeric grade and encases the card in a tamper-evident slab with a label and serial number.
The major companies are PSA, BGS, SGC, and CGC.
Why it matters: a grade turns condition from an opinion into a standard that buyers trust, which usually makes a graded card more liquid. A high grade like gem mint can multiply a card's value, while grading fees mean it is not worth it for every card.
This glossary is a plain-language reference for collectors, not financial or purchasing advice. Card values move, so always check recent sales before you buy or sell.