SHOULD I GET MY CARD GRADED?
One of the most asked questions we get is "Should I get my card graded?". There isn't a cut and dried answer, but the answer depends on multiple factors.
When considering whether to send a card in for grading, there are several factors to take into account:
CARD CONDITION!!
THIS IS THE MOST CRITICAL FACTOR. Grading companies grade cards on multiple criteria including centering, corners, edges, and surface. A card in excellent condition – no visible scratches, dents or wear, sharp corners, good centering – has the best chance of receiving a high grade. You might want to use a jeweler's loupe to carefully inspect cards before submitting them to the grading company.
WHAT WILL IT BE WORTH?
Grading can be costly, so it's important to consider the potential value of the card once it's graded before you invest in grading it. If the card is rare, vintage, or features a popular player, it might significantly increase in value after grading, especially if it's in excellent condition. However, if it's a common card, overproducted card, or in poor condition, the cost of grading may exceed the card's value. Research the value of the card you're considering; do your homework and you could end up with a nice investment.
WHO'S HOT / WHO's NOT
Some cards and players are more desirable than others, and trends can change quickly. Research the current market to see if there's demand for the card you're considering grading. Use "SOLD" listings to determine how desireale and valuable your card might be, This can give you an idea of how easy it might be to sell the card and how much you could potentially make.
IS IT REALLY RARE?
Not all cards are "rare" and even some cards with less desireable players can be worth grading too. Numbered cards, especially 1/1 cards, are also great candidates for getting graded. Their rarity and desirability keep their demand high and highly graded versions always command higher value than raw / ungraded versions. Don't be fooled by so called "ERROR" cards, as most are not true errors and can erroneously lead you down the wrong path and are not worth grading unless there is demand.
If there's a question about whether your card is authentic, getting it graded can help, or hurt depending out the outcome. Grading companies verify the authenticity of cards, which can be particularly helpful for sale or insurance purposes..
When a card is graded, it's also encapsulated in a protective case, which can help preserve the card's condition over time and help it keep its value. The cases, often referred to as "Slabs" are easier to store and sell.
There are many companies that grade cards, but they're not all created equal, only a few have recognized credentials. Companies like the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and SGC are among the most respected in the industry. Each has its own grading scale and standards, so you may want to research which is best suited for your particular card.