Discover the value of your Pokémon cards! This guide reveals how to grade your Pokémon cards, identify potential treasures, navigate the grading process, and protect your collection.
We’ve all been there.
That rush of excitement when you pull a rare Pokémon card from a fresh pack is unbeatable.
But here’s the thing: that card’s condition can make all the difference. We’re talking about a difference between a couple of bucks and potentially thousands. That’s where grading comes in.
Getting your cards graded by professionals isn’t just about bragging rights (though, let’s be honest, that’s part of the fun).
It’s about protecting your investment and understanding its true worth. A high grade can significantly boost a card’s value, especially if it’s a rare find.
And with several reputable grading companies out there, each with its own strengths, navigating the world of Pokémon card grading can feel like a whole new game.
Sounds exciting, yeah? Then let’s begin!
Alright, before you ship off your prized Charizard card, let’s take a breather.
Knowing the ins and outs of the grading process can save you time, money, and potential heartache down the road.
Think of card grading like a school report card, but instead of letters, we use numbers.
Most grading companies, like PSA, Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and CGC Trading Cards, use a 10-point scale to grade Pokémon cards. To make things less complicated, we’ll focus on the PSA grading scale.
Note that CGC and BGS differ in how they word their grading scale, but it’s pretty much similar to this one:
Now, BGS likes to add a little flair with sub-grades. They’ll give your card a separate grade for centering, corners, edges, and surface.
These sub-grades can impact the overall value, especially for high-end cards.
Not every card needs to be sent off for grading. It’s all about finding that balance between potential value and the cost of grading.
Generally, newer cards in excellent condition or older, rarer cards are your best bets.
Remember, looking at your card’s condition is key! A common card in pristine condition might be worth more than a rare card with significant wear.
Think of yourself as a Pokémon Professor, but instead of studying moves and abilities, we’re diving deep into the anatomy of a card. Let’s break down the four pillars of Pokémon card grading:
Hold the card up and imagine a crosshair right in the middle. Is the artwork and border aligned perfectly within those lines, both on the front and back? The closer to dead-center, the better. Slight misalignments are common, but anything drastic can hurt the grade.
Corners on a Pokémon card are rounded. The more even those rounded corners are, the higher the grade. Unlike sports cards with their sharp corners, the rounded corners make Pokémon cards easier to grade, as those pointy edges can be tough to maintain.
Carefully examine the edges of the card for any whitening, chips, or rough spots. A well-defined, smooth edge is what you’re aiming for.
This is where things get really nitpicky. We’re talking about scratches, dents, print lines, and any other imperfections on the card’s surface. Use a bright light and tilt the card at different angles to catch even the smallest flaws.
Ready to level up your grading game? Let’s dive into some pro-level techniques that can help you spot those subtle flaws:
Think of lighting as your secret weapon in the grading process.
Natural daylight is great, but a daylight bulb or a lightbox can provide consistent illumination, revealing those hidden imperfections.
And don’t underestimate the power of magnification!
A jeweler’s loupe or a magnifying glass can turn you into a card-grading detective, allowing you to spot even the tiniest scratches or print defects.
Here’s the thing about Pokémon cards: even those fresh-out-of-the-pack beauties aren’t always perfect.
Yep, you read that right. Those mischievous little print gremlins can strike at any time, leaving you with a card that’s less than pristine.
Here are some of the common card flaws that you might possibly encounter:
Whitening, those pesky white spots along the edges, is a common culprit, often caused by the cards shifting around in their packs over time.
Holo scratches, those fine lines that disrupt the holographic pattern, can also occur during packaging or handling.
And then we have print defects, like misaligned ink or missing foil, which happen during the printing process itself. Keep a lookout for these troublemakers!
Those shimmering beauties add a whole new layer of complexity to grading. Not only do you have to assess the standard factors with these types of Pokémon cards, but you also need to inspect the holofoil itself.
So look for scratches, fading, or any unevenness in the holographic pattern. A pristine holo can significantly boost a card’s grade, so pay close attention!
So, you’ve inspected your cards under the brightest lights, you’ve channeled your inner Sherlock Holmes with that magnifying glass, and you’ve decided these babies are ready for the big leagues.
But now comes the million-dollar question (or at least the potentially-hundreds-of-dollars question): Which grading company deserves the honor of encasing your precious Pokémon?
Let me introduce you to the titans of the trading card grading world:
Here’s a pro tip! “Grading for the slab” means choosing a grading company based on the aesthetics and popularity of their protective case (the “slab”).
While the grade is paramount, a visually appealing slab can enhance a card’s display value and marketability.
Alright, you’ve chosen your grading champion, and you’re ready to send your cards off to their destinies. But hold on… There’s something more you need to know!
Before you slap a stamp on that envelope, let’s make sure your prized possessions are prepped and primed for their journey.
Think of this as the VIP treatment for your Pokémon cards before they head off to the grading spa:
Time for some paperwork (don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds).
Each grading company has its own submission forms, so make sure you’re on the right website.
Fill out the forms accurately, including the declared value of your cards. This is important for insurance purposes in case anything happens during transit.
We’re talking Fort Knox-level security here. Use a sturdy box, plenty of padding (bubble wrap is your best friend), and packing tape to seal the deal.
And don’t forget to insure your package! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Once you’ve shipped your cards, keep an eye on that tracking number like a hawk.
Turnaround times can vary, so be sure to check the grading company’s website for estimated processing times. And remember, patience is a virtue! Those pristine slabs will be worth the wait.
The moment of truth has arrived!
You’ve patiently waited, tracked that package like a hawk, and now those beautiful, graded slabs are finally in your hands.
But what’s next? Let’s explore the exciting possibilities:
That shiny new grade is more than just a number; it’s a key that unlocks a whole new world of value.
But before you start dreaming of Lamborghinis, let’s do some research.
Websites like eBay and PriceCharting are great resources for checking recent sales data for cards with the same grade and condition as yours.
And don’t forget about those population reports! A low population count for a particular grade can significantly increase a card’s value.
So, you’ve decided to part ways with a few treasures? No judgment here!
Whether you’re looking to reinvest in your collection or simply cash in on some profits, there are plenty of options:
No matter which route you choose, remember to do your research, set realistic prices, and protect yourself from scams.
You’ve gone through the grading process, now it’s time to show off those pristine slabs!
But remember, how you store and display your graded collection matters.
Forget about top loaders for your graded cards; they’re simply not designed for those precious slabs.
Instead, consider these options:
And when it comes to displaying your collection, get creative!
Invest in dedicated display cases designed specifically for graded cards, or think outside the box with shadow boxes or floating shelves.
Let your collection reflect your passion and spark those exciting Pokémon conversations!
So there you have it! Grading might seem like a whole new world, but with a little knowledge and a keen eye, you can unlock the true potential of your Pokémon card collection.
Remember, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, every card has a story to tell. And who knows, that story might just lead to a valuable treasure.
And hey, if you’re ever on the hunt for new additions to your collection, don’t forget to check out Curacards, your go-to source for all things Pokémon TCG in Australia! Check out our graded Pokémon card collection now.