Introduction
Pokemon cards have become highly sought-after collectibles, with some rare cards fetching thousands of dollars. If you want to ensure the authenticity and quality of your Pokemon card, getting it graded by a professional grading service is essential. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to get a Pokemon card graded.
Why Grade Your Pokemon Card?
Grading your Pokemon card offers several benefits:
- Authenticity: Grading provides assurance that your card is genuine and not a counterfeit.
- Condition: Grading evaluates the condition of your card, providing a standardized grading scale for its quality.
- Value: A graded Pokemon card can increase its value significantly, especially if it receives a high grade.
Choosing a Grading Service
Before submitting your Pokemon card for grading, it is crucial to select a reputable grading service. Some of the most well-known grading companies for Pokemon cards include:
- Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA): PSA is one of the most popular grading services for Pokemon cards, known for its stringent grading standards.
- Beckett Grading Services (BGS): BGS offers multi-grade subgrades for different aspects of the card, such as centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- CGC Trading Cards: CGC is a newer grading service that specializes in trading cards, including Pokemon cards.
Preparing Your Pokemon Card
Before sending your Pokemon card for grading, ensure that it is in optimal condition by following these steps:
- Clean the Card: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface of the card and remove any dust or dirt.
- Protective Sleeves: Place the card in a protective sleeve to prevent scratches or damage during transit.
- Documentation: Keep a record of the card’s details, including the set, card number, and any special features.
Submitting Your Pokemon Card
Once your Pokemon card is prepared, you can submit it to the grading service of your choice. Follow these steps for a smooth submission process:
- Online Submission: Many grading services offer online submission forms where you can fill out the necessary information and print a submission label.
- Shipping: Package your card securely in a padded envelope or box to ensure it arrives safely at the grading service’s facility.
- Insurance: Consider insuring your package for its full value to protect against loss or damage during transit.
Grading Process
Once your Pokemon card arrives at the grading service, it will undergo a thorough evaluation based on the following criteria:
- Centering: The symmetry of the image on the card in relation to the borders.
- Corners: The sharpness and integrity of the card’s corners.
- Edges: The smoothness and uniformity of the card’s edges.
- Surface: The cleanliness and lack of imperfections on the card’s surface.
Receiving Your Graded Pokemon Card
Once the grading process is complete, you will receive your graded Pokemon card along with a graded certificate that indicates its condition and authenticity. Here are some key points to remember:
- Grading Scale: Most grading services use a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest grade for a pristine card.
- Encapsulation: Graded Pokemon cards are typically encapsulated in a sealed case to protect them from further damage.
- Value Assessment: The grade assigned to your Pokemon card can significantly impact its market value. Higher grades command higher prices among collectors.
Conclusion
Getting your Pokemon card graded is a valuable investment that can enhance its authenticity, condition, and value. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and successful grading process for your prized collectible.
