Posted on March 21st, 2023

Sports cards have been a popular collector's item for over a century, and their value has fluctuated greatly over the years. One of the key factors that can impact the value of a sports card is its grade. Sports card grading is the process of evaluating a card's condition and assigning it a grade based on a standardized scale. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the impact of sports card grading on value and how collectors can use grading to make informed investment decisions.

What is Sports Card Grading?

Sports card grading is a process by which a professional grading service evaluates the condition of a sports card and assigns it a grade based on a standardized scale. The two most widely recognized grading services are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Both companies use a 10-point grading scale, with 10 being considered "gem mint" or perfect and 1 being considered "poor" or heavily damaged.

Why is Grading Important?

Grading is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps to ensure that buyers and sellers are on the same page when it comes to a card's condition. Without grading, one person's idea of an "excellent" condition might be very different from another person's. Additionally, grading can have a significant impact on a card's value. A card that is graded as a "gem mint" 10 will typically be worth significantly more than the same card in "near mint" 8 condition.

What Factors Determine a Card's Grade?

Sports card grading is based on several factors, including the card's centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall condition. Each factor is evaluated on a scale from 1 to 10, with the final grade being the average of the individual grades. For example, a card might receive a grade of 9 for centering, 8.5 for corners, 9.5 for edges, 9 for surface, and an overall grade of 9.

How Does Grading Impact Value?

Grading can have a significant impact on a card's value. Generally speaking, the higher the grade, the more valuable the card will be. For example, a Michael Jordan rookie card that is graded as a "gem mint" 10 might be worth tens of thousands of dollars, while the same card in "near mint" 8 condition might only be worth a few thousand dollars. This is because collectors place a premium on cards that are in excellent condition, and a "gem mint" 10-card set is considered to be as close to perfect as possible.

Can Grading Increase the Value of a Card?

In some cases, grading can actually increase the value of a card. This is because grading provides a level of authenticity and credibility that can be difficult to replicate. A card that is graded by a reputable grading service is more likely to be viewed as genuine and in excellent condition, which can increase its value in the eyes of potential buyers.

Can Grading Decrease the Value of a Card?

On the other hand, grading can also decrease the value of a card in some cases. This can happen if the grading service is not reputable or if the card has been altered or tampered with in some way. In these cases, a card that is graded as a "gem mint" 10 might actually be worth less than the same card in "near mint" 8 condition, simply because collectors don't trust the authenticity of the grading.

How Do I Choose a Grading Service?

Choosing a grading service is an important decision, as the reputation and accuracy of the grading service can impact the value of your cards. Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS) are the two most widely recognized grading services in the industry. Both companies have a reputation for accuracy and reliability, and they use a similar 10-point grading scale. However, there are some differences between the two services that collectors should be aware of. For example, PSA is considered by many to be the gold standard for vintage cards, while BGS is often preferred for modern cards. Ultimately, the best grading service for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

How do I submit cards for grading?

Submitting cards for grading is a relatively straightforward process. First, you'll need to choose a grading service and create an account with it. Then, you'll need to fill out a submission form and prepare your cards for shipping. Make sure to package your cards carefully to avoid damage during shipping. Once the grading service receives your cards, they'll evaluate them and assign a grade. The process typically takes several weeks to complete, depending on the grading service and the volume of submissions.

What Should I Consider When Investing in Graded Cards?

If you're interested in investing in graded sports cards, there are several factors to consider. First, make sure to choose cards that are in high demand among collectors. This might include rookie cards, cards featuring popular athletes, or cards from popular sets. Additionally, look for cards that are in excellent condition and have been graded by a reputable grading service. Finally, consider the current market trends and do your research to make informed investment decisions.

How can I use grading to make informed investment decisions?

Grading can be a valuable tool for collectors who are looking to make informed investment decisions. By understanding the grading scale and the factors that determine a card's grade, collectors can evaluate the condition and value of a card before making a purchase. Additionally, graded cards provide a level of authenticity and credibility that can increase their value in the eyes of potential buyers. By investing in graded cards that are in high demand and have been evaluated by a reputable grading service, collectors can increase their chances of seeing a return on their investment.

With that being said, sports card grading is an important factor to consider when buying, selling, or investing in sports cards. Grading provides a standardized system for evaluating the condition of cards and can have a significant impact on a card's value. By understanding the grading process and choosing a reputable grading service, collectors can make informed decisions and increase their chances of success in the sports card market. If you're interested in learning more about our services or have any questions about sports card grading, please don't hesitate to reach out or get in touch with us at (407) 782-5785, (407) 476-7290, or [email protected]. Our team is passionate about sports memorabilia, and we're always happy to help fellow collectors and enthusiasts.