Baseball cards grading services have become an important part of the baseball card collecting hobby. Third party grading companies authenticate, grade the condition or quality, and encapsulate cards in plastic holders to protect them. This provides collectors assurance about a card’s authenticity and condition when buying or selling. While there are a few companies that offer this service, the three main ones are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and Sportscard Guaranty LLC (SGC). Let’s take a deeper look at how the grading process works and what each company offers collectors.
The first step for any collector is to decide which grading service makes the most sense based on their collection and future plans. All three companies grade on a 1-10 scale, but they may vary slightly in how strict or lenient their grading standards are. PSA tends to grade a bit tougher, while BGS and SGC can be a bit more lenient. BGS also offers the option to grade specific aspects like corners, edges, and surface which provides extra detail. SGC offers the most affordable option. It’s important for collectors to understand the subtle differences to pick the right fit.
Once a collector selects a company, they will need to properly prepare the cards for submission. This involves carefully putting each card in a standard submission holder or sleeve. Any cards showing signs of damage or alteration should not be submitted, as the grading company will likely not grade them. Collectors also need to fill out a submission form providing details on the desired turnaround time and service level. Standard service takes several weeks, while express options are available for faster returns but come at a higher cost.
The grading companies then have strict quality control processes to authenticate and evaluate each card. PSA, BGS, and SGC all employ teams of experienced graders who thoroughly inspect every aspect under bright lighting and powerful magnifying equipment. They are checking for signs of counterfeiting as well as carefully analyzing the corners, edges, surface, and centering of each card. Even minor flaws can potentially drop a grade. After grading, the card is sealed in a tamper-proof plastic holder along with the assigned grade.
Grades of 7 and above are typically considered “gem mint” condition worthy of a collector’s long-term portfolio. Even lower grades can have value based on the specific card and demand. Key rookies, rare variations, or cards of all-time great players tend to hold value across different grades. The plastic holders also protect cards long-term from damage, making them ideal for resale. Certified cards can often fetch a premium versus raw or uncertified copies in similar condition.
Collectors who want to resell cards have the option to use services like PWCC Marketplace, Goldin Auctions, or eBay once they receive the cards back from grading. It’s important to do research on recent sales data to understand appropriate pricing expectations based on the card, player, year, grade, and market trends. The grading certification provides buyers confidence, but condition is still king when it comes to determining value. Top rookies or rare finds in high grades can be worth thousands or even tens of thousands depending on the specific card.
Third party grading has become an essential part of the modern baseball card industry. It provides authentication, preservation, and a standard way to assess condition that benefits buyers and sellers. While it involves some upfront costs, certified cards tend to hold value better long-term. Collectors just need to select the right grading company based on their preferences and use careful preparation methods to get accurate grades back on their prized pieces of sports history. The certification elevates cards that meet strict quality standards to reach peak collectability and demand in the marketplace.
