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HOW TO GET YOUR BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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The first step is to choose a grading company. The three major third-party grading companies for baseball cards are PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation). Each company has its own standards and population report data that can impact the value of a card, so it’s important to consider which company is the best fit based on the individual card.

Once you’ve selected a grading company, you’ll need to purchase the proper submission package based on turnaround time and number of cards. Most companies offer various tiers of service from economy to express. Be sure to read the submission guidelines closely to make sure your cards meet requirements for things like packaging, value restrictions, and card quantity limits per submission.

When preparing your cards to submit, you’ll want to ensure they are packaged securely to avoid any potential damage in transit. Strong toploaders or magnetic holders are recommended, with each card individually sleeved and backed by a sturdy cardboard. Don’t overstuff toploaders as it could cause the cards to shift and potentially scratch or indent during shipping. Other tips include wiping down cards to remove any dirt or fingerprints and trimming away rough cut edges.

It’s a good idea to document the condition of each card yourself before sending using high quality photos from multiple angles. This creates an archive to reference the card’s original state should any issues arise. When filling out the submission form, be as detailed as possible by noting even the slightest defects, as grading standards are very precise. Overstating condition could result in a lower grade.

Packages can be shipped to the grading company using insured and tracked carrier services. USPS, UPS, and FedEx are commonly used options. Be sure to get a delivery confirmation and consider adding insurance equal to the declared value of the submission. Also pay close attention to any seasonal cutoffs, as turnaround times may be longer around holidays.

Once received, the grading company will meticulously examine each card under special lighting and magnification equipment. Multiple trained graders will assess criteria like centering, corners, edges, and surface for issues that could impact the numerical grade. Authenticity may also be verified using technological methods like precision security scanning.

After completing the grading process, the card holders and labels will be permanently applied before packaging for return shipment. It’s a real thrill to open that box and see your prized cards now protected in the holder underneath their earned numeric grade. Be sure to log and appreciate each card’s new “slabbed” state. Population registry on the designated company’s website can provide further value context.

From this point, graded cards are permanently encapsulated and can be confidently collected, bought, and sold in the marketplace. The added authenticity and condition certification provides a level of protection and transparency that enhances value potential over time. Periodically re-submit especially valuable vintage coins if signs of holder degradation appear to maintain pristine preservation.

With careful planning and optimized submissions, the grading process for prized baseball cards becomes smoother each time. Following company best practices ensures the best protection for investments while adding the authenticity layer necessary to confidently engage in today’s modern memorabilia market. With a bit of patience, any collector can unlock added value and enjoyment from their personalized sports collecting journey.

WHERE CAN I GET BASEBALL CARDS GRADED NEAR ME

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Getting valuable baseball cards professionally graded is an important process that verifies authenticity and assigns a numerical grade that indicates the card’s condition andquality. This greatly impacts the card’s overall value for collectors. There are several professional third-party grading services that are trusted within the hobby to provide an unbiased assessment. The top three that most collectors recommend are PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), and SGC.

To find one of these services near your location, the best option is to search online for their authorized dealers and submission centers. PSA, BGS, and SGC each have directories on their websites listing authorized partners across the country that can accept cards for submission. Many local hobby shops, card stores, and memorabilia dealers serve as submission centers as it’s a service they can provide to customers. Simply search for “[grading company] submission center near me” or contact your local card shops to ask if they partner with any of the main services.

Another option some collectors prefer is to directly mail cards to the grading companies themselves to skip the middleman. PSA, BGS, and SGC all accept mail-in submissions. Going through a local dealer can make the process more convenient as you don’t have to handle the shipping logistics yourself. It also allows you to inspect the cards in-person before submitting rather than having to rely on photos for any potential flaws.

Some large hobby shop chains that commonly serve as submission centers for multiple grading services include Dave & Adam’s Card World, Steel City Collectibles, Monumental Sports, Lelands, Blowout Cards, Stadium Cards & Collectibles, Card Collector Universe, and Mile High Cards & Comics. While the selection may vary by location, many of these national retailers have knowledgeable staff that can guide you through the submission process for PSA, BGS, or SGC.

Beyond nationwide chains, thorough online searches for “[your city/state] sports cards” or “[your city/state] card shop” will uncover many independently-owned local stores that may also offer grading submission services. Calling around to these smaller mom-and-pop shops is worthwhile as some work directly with one or more companies as an authorized dealer. Gathering information over the phone about their submission process and fees can help you decide.

For collectors living near major metro areas, another convenient option is to check if any of the grading services have a physical location within driving distance that accepts walk-in submissions. For example, PSA and BGS both have headquarters in California where you can visit in-person to submit cards. SGC’s physical office is located outside Chicago. While walk-ins tend to have higher costs, it eliminates shipping and allows you to get instant estimates on turnaround times.

With a bit of online research and local calling around, any collector should be able to easily identify grading submission options near their location. While services and availability may vary between rural vs. urban areas, the top grading companies all make it a priority to have local authorized partners nationwide to best serve collectors in their local communities. With some initial legwork, finding a reputable nearby dealer to handle your submissions should be straightforward.

WHERE TO GET BASEBALL CARDS GRADED NEAR ME

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The major companies that provide authentication and grading services for sports cards like baseball cards include Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Sportscard Guaranty (SGC), and Hobby Certification Services (HCert). To determine the best option for getting your cards graded near your location, there are a few key factors to consider:

The first step is to research what card grading companies have physical locations or authorized dealers near you where you can drop off your cards for grading in-person. PSA, BGS, and SGC all have national networks of authorized dealers that can accept cards on your behalf and submit them for grading. You’ll want to search online directories or contact the companies directly to find an authorized dealer reasonably close to your home. Seeing the cards in person allows the dealer to inspect for any obvious issues before submitting.

Another option if no local dealer is available is to ship your cards directly to the grading companies yourself. PSA, BGS, and SGC all accept mail-in submissions. Be sure to carefully package the cards for transit to avoid any potential damage in shipment. Also research the different shipping methods and costs based on how quickly you need the cards returned once graded. Optimal protection is required if insuring valuable cargo.

You’ll also want to check the current turnaround times for each grading service. During busy seasons like the start of the MLB season, wait times can extend 6-9 months or longer due to high demand. SGC often has the fastest return times of 2-4 weeks on average. But PSA and BGS still provide the most extensive quality control and have the biggest brand recognition which is valuable for high-end cards.

Consider the cost of grading as well. PSA and BGS typically charge $10-$15 per card plus return shipping. But SGC has more affordable $5-$10 per card fees. You may save with volume discounts by submitting multiple cards at once. Also look into membership programs that provide reduced rates after an annual fee.

In addition to location, shipping methods and costs, turnaround times, and fees, it’s also wise to research each company’s grading standards and population report data. This indicates how rigid or lenient their grading scale is compared to the others. You want your high value cards receiving the fairest, most trusted grades to maximize resale value down the road.

Read online reviews of both the grading company and specific locations/dealers you’re considering. Check for complaints about customer service, lost packages, or cards damaged during the process. A highly reputable local dealer handling the cards with care from start to finish is ideal for getting the best results.

Take the time to thoroughly research all your card grading options based on location, costs, wait times, grading standards, and reviews. With a bit of homework, you can determine the most reliable, efficient, and cost-effective service near you to get your baseball card collection properly authenticated and encapsulated for long-term preservation and maximum worth. A locally submitted guided process administered by an expert can result in the best protection of an investment in memorabilia.

CAN YOU GET BASEBALL CARDS GRADED IN PERSON

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The three largest and most well-known card grading services that offer in-person submissions are Beckett Grading Services (BGS), Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), and Hockey Card Grading (HCG). Each company has physical locations where you can visit to directly submit your cards for grading rather than sending them in by mail.

For BGS, you would need to visit their headquarters in Dallas, Texas. They have a submission office open Monday through Friday where you can briefly meet with a submission representative to discuss the grading process and get help filling out your submission forms. They will inspect each card and provide an estimate of what grade it may receive. You would then pay the grading fees upfront and wait while the cards are immediately processed. Turnaround time for on-site submissions is usually just a few business days since the cards do not need to be shipped.

At PSA’s headquarters in West LA, California, the in-person process is similar where you can meet with a PSA representative to help guide you through submitting your cards. They will look over each card at your submission desk and give you an idea of the potential grade. You pay the grading fees and can usually get your cards back within a week since they are graded on-site. PSA also has a larger authentication verification team at their California office to thoroughly inspect cards submitted in-person.

HCG, which is based in Toronto, Canada, provides an in-person submission service one day per week on Wednesdays. Card collectors would need to make an advance appointment and then visit their grading floor where a HCG representative will be available to inspect cards, provide estimate grades, and process submissions. Payment is made upfront and turnaround times are again faster than mail-in at around 2 weeks max since the cards are not shipping between locations. HCG will also authenticate and verify cards submitted on their in-person day of the week.

At each physical location, be prepared to have the representative more closely inspect your cards under high-powered magnification and strong light sources that may reveal flaws or issues not noticeable to the naked eye. They will evaluate factors like centering, corners, edges and surfaces with grading references at their workstations. It is not guaranteed the final assigned numerical grade will exactly match the estimate provided on-site.

When having cards graded in-person, you need to follow all submission guidelines and paperwork requirements that each company lists online just as with mail-in submissions. This includes filling out detailed descriptions of each individual card, providing current market values, and selection the appropriate grading tier/package. You should have your cards stored and packaged securely in sleeves, toploaders or other holders recommended by the grading service.

The advantage of in-person grading submissions is not only the quicker turnaround times since cards do not travel through the postal system. You also avoid potential mail or shipping damage risks to your potentially valuable collectibles. Seeing the cards examined directly in front of you gives more assurance in the grading process. A potential downside is that some collectors or dealers may have large submissions that are more practical to send via mail given physical location restraints.

Visiting the physical offices of BGS, PSA, or HCG allows collectors the option to get baseball cards graded through a streamlined in-person process where the cards are inspected, authenticated, and processed on-site for generally faster turnaround than standard mail-in services. Following each company’s submission guidelines ensures the best experience when choosing to grade memorabilia in-person rather than by mail.

IS IT WORTH GETTING BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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Whether or not it is worth getting baseball cards graded depends on several factors about the individual card and your overall goals. Receiving a professional grade from organizations like PSA, BGS, or SGC can potentially increase the value of a card, but it also comes with costs that need to be considered. Here are some important aspects to evaluate when deciding if grading is a good option for your cards:

Condition of the Card: The condition of the card is extremely important because it will determine the grade it receives. Obvious flaws like creases, corners that are bent or damaged, or centering issues will likely result in a lower grade which may not increase the value enough to justify the grading costs. Near mint to mint condition cards with eye appeal have the most potential to gain value from a high grade. Well cared for vintage cards in great shape are often the best candidates.

Rarity and Demand: Common base cards even in pristine condition often will not receive enough of a premium to offset grading fees. targeting high value cards of key players, rookies, autographs, rare parallels and serial numbered inserts increases the chances of profiting. Popular stars from different eras like Mickey Mantle, Mike Trout, Luka Doncic have strong collector demand which supports higher prices.

Potential Resale Value: It’s important to realistically consider how much a card might be worth after grading when weighing costs vs potential profit. Popular vintage HOF cards may grade and resell for hundreds to thousands but a modern day insert of a role player will likely increase in value only modestly, if at all. Take the recent sales of comparable graded cards into account when budgeting for fees. Understand how much the grade itself contributes to increased worth.

Cost Effectiveness: Fees charged by the major grading companies are usually based on the declared value of the card but there are also membership options. Standard grading costs between $10-$20 per card depending on service level selected. Higher end “pressing” and restoration services are significantly more. For typical modern cards, fees can easily exceed any added premium from a grade. Sending bulk submissions of several hundred cards or more in one order helps drive down the average cost per card.

Investment Goals: If the goal is long term collection appreciation, a top grade can add confidence for an heirloom piece. But if looking for a quick profit flipping, turnaround time and the costs of resubmitting cards need to be considered versus just raw sales. Low pop or 1 of 1 slabs offer greater scarcity but may be harder to eventually sell than mass appeal stars and issues. Liquidity is important depending on investment timeline.

Confidence and Protection: The grading process and tamper evident sealed slab provides condition authentication and reassurance that the card is preserved in the assigned grade state for potential future resale or passing down. This peace of mind and preservation factor has inherent value for some collectors, especially for vintage issues prone to damage if kept raw. Insurance values are higher for slabs.

Your overall plan whether collecting, investing, or reselling at some point should dictate whether taking on the costs and time commitment of the third party grading process makes sense for individual cards in your collection. For the right cards under the right circumstances, it absolutely can significantly boost value, but it requires thorough consideration of all the angles. Starting with high quality vintage and modern star cards is usually the smartest approach.

While grading is not for every card, when done strategically for the right pieces in mind of all the influencing variables, it has strong potential to realize gains that outweigh the expenses involved. Do diligent research on comps and pop reports, consider slabbing submissions in bulk to minimize costs per card, and be realistic on projected value increases based on condition to make informed decisions on if and when to get baseball cards professionally graded. With the right cards and expectations, the increased worth and preservation benefits can indeed make the process worthwhile.

CAN I GET BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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Getting baseball cards professionally graded is a service offered by several companies to authenticate, assess the condition of, and encapsulate cards. There are a few major companies that offer this service, including PSA, BGS (Beckett Grading Services), SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corp), and HGA (Hobby Grade Access). Each uses their own grading scale to assign a numerical value that corresponds to the card’s condition and quality.

The basic process of getting cards graded works like this: First, you will need to obtain shipping supplies like plastic sleeves, toploaders, and boxes from the grading company. You’ll then carefully package your cards for shipment, being sure not to damage or add any fingerprints or marks. The cards should be sent to the grading company via insured mail.

Once received, the cards will enter the grading process. Trained graders will carefully examine each card under bright lighting and high magnification lenses. They are looking for any flaws, defects, centering issues or problems that detract from the card being in pristine condition. Parameters like corners, edges, surface and centering are all considered. The grader may take notes on issues found and compare the card to pristine examples.

After fully inspecting the card, the grader will assign it a numerical grade on their established numerical scale, such as 1-10 for BGS or 1-10 for PSA. A “10” denotes a flawless, pristine example that achieved perfect centering and surface quality. As the number gets lower, more flaws and defects are present that detract from the condition. Things like off-center printing, edge wear, corner dings or creases would lower the assigned grade.

Once graded, the card is then encapsulated in a clear plastic holder branded with the grading company logo. Tabs on the holder will display the assigned grade, as well as any additional designations like “GEM MINT” for a high PSA grade. The holder is heat sealed to protect the card and discourage tampering.

Authentication is another important part of the grading process. By examining characteristics like trademarks, design, copyrights and more under high magnification, graders can determine if a card is genuine or counterfeit. Suspicious cards may instead receive a grade of “Authentic” or “Not Genuine” rather than a numeric condition grade.

Costs for grading are based on several factors like turnaround times, membership levels, bulk submission discounts and more. Economy bulk submissions to companies like SGC can be as low as $10-$15 per card, while express submissions to PSA can range from $20-$100+ depending on service selected. Membership levels and tiered plans can offer lower per-card rates for larger submissions.

Once graded, a card’s resale or collector value is typically much higher when it has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated. The assigned grade provides a standardized way to assess condition that buyers can rely on. Premium, gem mint graded examples can sell for exponentially more than raw, ungraded cards. Even more modestly graded cards still bring higher prices than raw copies in similar condition due to the added legitimacy of the third-party authentication and packaging.

For collectors and investors, using reliable grading services can add value and peace of mind. But care must be taken in the packaging and shipping process, as any damage during transit could significantly hurt the grade – and in turn, the card’s resale price. Opting for faster return timelines and express submission options costs more up front but avoids long wait times that could frustrate buyers and sellers trying to complete trades or auction transactions involving graded cards. Insur ing shipments is also highly recommended.

The major third-party grading companies have cert ified experienced authenticators on staff and maintain robust quality control procedures to issue fair, consistent grades over time. While not perfect, modern grading standards have brought more transparency and standardization to the collectibles marketplace. For high-value vintage cards especially, a professional grade adds credibility that can help justify premium prices – whether the card stays in a personal collection or gets consigned to an auction house for sale.

Getting vintage or modern sports cards professionally graded is a reliable way to authenticate, assess condition, give graded examples a collectibility boost, and add resale value – even if it does necessitate patience and carrying extra shipping/submission costs. Using trusted grading services brings standardization that countless collectors, investors and sellers have come to depend on. With care taken in preparation and shipping, submitting cards can be a worthwhile investment to consider.

WHAT BASEBALL CARDS SHOULD BE GRADED

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When it comes to deciding which baseball cards should be professionally graded, there are a few key factors collectors should consider. The most important aspect is the condition and preservation of the card itself. Only cards that are in exceptionally well-kept and pristine condition are worth the time and expense of grading. Professionally graded cards receive a numerical grade assessing their state of preservation, with the most coveted and valuable grades being Mint 9 and Mint 10. Only the most flawless specimens that show no visible defects, imperfections, or signs of wear will achieve those top grades.

Cards from the earliest years of the modern baseball card era, spanning from the late 1880s through the mid-20th century, tend to have the most collector value when professionally graded. This is because the fragile paper stock and printing methods of the time make high-grade specimens from that era exceptionally rare. Examples would include vintage T206 tobacco cards from the early 1900s, playesr from the 1930s Goudey set, or rookie cards from the 1950s. Even subtle handling wear or edge scuffs that don’t significantly impact visual appeal can disqualify a century-old card from topping out at a Mint 9 or 10.

Not all valuable vintage cards are automatically candidates for grading. Heavily played examples or those with obvious flaws would have little upside potential and mainly just incur expense submitting them. It’s recommended to have fairly high expectations for the likely final grade before engaging the grading process. Cards believed to clearly warrant at least an EX/MT 5 or 6 level grade bare minimum are most practical considerations. Anythingpredicted to grade lower runs the risk of ending up negatively affecting the card’s resale potential versus just professionally slabbing raw in a protective holder.

For modern cards printed from the late 1980s onward, there is generally less inherent value tied strictly to condition. But rookie cards, autographed memorabilia cards, and particularly rare short print parallel versions have clear benefits to being officially graded. This provides authentication, a tamper-proof seal to discourage forgery, and quantificationof the card’s condition that standardizes resale value estimates. Examples that could merit modern grading include rare Mike Trout or Bryce Harper rookies, unique 1/1 printing plates, or autographed relic cards of star players. As with vintage, condition expectations need to be realistic – most ordinary base cards aren’t grading candidates.

Authenticity is another key attribute that third party grading helps to establish, which is why error cards with suspected production anomalies can make for great submissions. Uncut press sheet cards still connected in printer’s sheet form offer a unique collecting angle as well. Certified au thenticity combined with a high Mint grade elevates the value of rare production variants above raw examples of questionable origins. For error cards predicted to grade lower in condition, raw preservation may again be the preferred holding method cost-benefit wise.

Cost is the final significant factor for collectors to weigh. Professional grading fees can range from around $10-20 per standard sized card submission on the low end, to over $100 for more detailed slab customization or special services like auto authentication. Shipping and insurance also needs accounting. For common cards not predicted to achieve extremely high condition grades, the expense often far outweighs any additional value introduced through the grading process. But for key vintage or modern rookie cards anticipated to grade Mint 8 or higher, the premium achieved can validate grading’s upfront investment many times over via increased future resale value.

For baseball cards to make financial and collecting sense as professional grading candidates they should generally be A) vintage specimens from the earliest production years with the potential for Mint grades due to rarity, B) key modern rookies, relics, or parallels anticipated to score high condition marks, C) error or unique print variants seeking authenticated verification, or D) have a realistic chance at grading EX/MT 5 or higher to justify costs versus preservation alternatives. With selective consideration of card, cost, and expected grade outcomes, third party authentication can elevate collections but requires an informed approach to yield optimal returns.

WHERE TO GET VINTAGE BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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There are several professional third-party grading companies that provide grading services for collectibles like vintage baseball cards. The two most popular and reputable companies are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Both companies have stringent grading standards and their stamp of authenticity and assigned numerical grade helps establish a fair market value for the card.

The first step is to select the cards you want to grade. Make sure to only submit high quality vintage cards that are in the best condition possible. Cracked or heavily worn cards are unlikely to grade very well. Carefully inspect each card under good lighting for any flaws, creases, corners, or edges that may hurt the potential grade. You want cards that show minimal signs of handling and have sharp corners. Raw mint cards have the highest chance of receiving the top grades.

Once you’ve selected the cards, you’ll need to properly package them for shipping. Both PSA and BGS provide mailing kits and detailed instructions on their website on how to safely package cards. It’s best to place each individual card in a stiff penny sleeve flap and then put multiple cards into a rigid toploader or magnetic holder. Safely secure all the cards within cardboard or bubble wrap and place in a sealed box for mailing. Proper packaging helps ensure the cards arrive without any damage from shipping.

You’ll then need to register an account on the grading company’s website to open a submission. Once logged in, you can select the turnaround time and costs for the service level. Standard turnaround is usually 3-6 months currently but bulk and economy options with higher volume may take 9-12 months to grade due to backlogs. Express services are much faster at 1-2 months but come at a steep cost premium. Shipping insurance is highly recommended as well to protect against potential losses or damages in transit.

Most submission forms allow you to enter details about each individual card like the player, year, set and any notable identifying markings that can help establish provenance. You’ll want to be as detailed as possible here for authentication purposes down the road. Fees are calculated based on the number of cards and service level selected. Payment is collected online at the time of submission.

Once submitted, the grading company will thoroughly inspect each card under high magnification lights and microscopes. They analyze factors like centering, corners, edges, surface and overall condition comprehensively. Numerical raw grades from 1-10 are then assigned according to established standards with descriptive verbal qualifiers accompanying some levels. After grading, the cards are then sealed within tamper proof holders that prominently display the assigned grade upfront through a clear plastic window.

You’ll receive a detailed grading report in your account with pictures and grades of each individual card once the submission is returned. The holders can then be easily verified against the report for authenticity. Properly graded vintage cards with high marks significantly boost in collector value and provide a benchmark for the condition and quality of the item. They become an important part of establishing the provenance, condition census and price guide listings for significant vintage cards going forward.

Using the expert services of respected third party grading companies like PSA and BGS provides baseball card collectors the most reputable and trusted method available to comprehensively analyze, authenticate and assign an official recognized grade to their prized vintage cards. While a larger initial cost, the protective holder and numerical grade assigned aids significantly in long term preservation, increases value and establishes an important record of the card that endures for decades to come. With care taken in selection, preparation and patience – it’s worth utilizing professional grading for top tier vintage cardboard to fully realize their collector potential over time.

WHERE CAN I TAKE BASEBALL CARDS TO GET GRADED

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The most widely recognized and respected third-party grading service for baseball cards is Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Founded in 2000, PSA has graded over 50 million trading cards and established the PSA/DNA authentication technology that is widely used to identify counterfeit and altered cards.

To submit cards to PSA for grading, you will first need to register for a PSA member account on their website. This allows you to track submissions, check status, and view grades online. Then you will need to carefully package your cards to prevent damage during shipping. PSA has guidelines for submission packaging and quantity limits depending on the membership tier. Once received, the cards will be reviewed by PSA grading experts who will analyze several factors like centering, corners, edges and surface to determine the overall grade on a 1-10 scale. Higher grades of 7 and above indicate a well-kept card that is desirable to collectors.

The grading process at PSA can take some time, typically 4-6 months for general submissions during busy periods. They do offer various levels of membership that provide benefits like reduced turnaround times. The cost to grade cards at PSA depends on factors like membership level, number of cards submitted, and desired turnaround service. As a baseline, expect to pay around $10-$15 per card on average with potential additional rush fees. Graded cards are then securely sealed in protective slabs with the assigned grade, card details and PSA authentication hologram for added value and appeal to buyers.

Another top competitor to PSA is Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Founded in 1992, BGS uses a similar detailed analysis process as PSA to examine cards and assign numerical grades. They also encapsulate graded cards in protective slabs marked with the grade and authentication seals. Like PSA, BGS has a website where you can register, track submissions, check guidelines and costs. Turnaround times and pricing are comparable between the two major services. One difference is that BGS offers additional verbal label descriptions like “Gem Mint” to further characterize grades, while PSA uses only the numerical scale.

For those looking for slightly lower cost alternatives, there are also several respected regional grading companies that many collectors will use:

SGC (Sportscard Guarantee Corporation) – Known for turnaround times of 1-2 weeks but prices are generally lower than PSA or BGS at around $5-$10 per card.

BVG (Beckett Vintage Grading) – Specializes in vintage pre-1980s cards and turnaround is typically 2-4 weeks.

GC (GreatCollections) – User-friendly online marketplace where you can also submit cards for $7-8 per card but expect 2-4 month turnaround.

For truly valuable vintage cards potentially worth thousands or even tens of thousands, sending to one of the major authenticators may be necessary before consigning to auction. Companies like James Spence Authentication analyze papers, inks and provide certificates of authenticity to satisfy serious buyers and achieve the best prices.

In conclusion, PSA and BGS are the definitive leaders for modern card grading due to reputation and widespread collector trust/acceptance of their holders in the marketplace. But the regional services can meet needs of many hobbyists, especially for turnaround time or cost reasons. Doing research to understand the process, guidelines and choosing a respected service is important to unlock the full potential value of a graded card collection.

WHAT BASEBALL CARDS SHOULD I GET GRADED

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One of the most important factors to consider when choosing cards to grade is the condition and quality of the card itself. Only cards that are in remarkably well-preserved condition with no flaws, creases, corners or edges that are damaged should even be considered for grading. Grading will cost money depending on the level of service, so it only makes sense to submit cards that have the highest chances of receiving the highest possible grade. Even the slightest flaw can potentially drop the grade significantly. Therefore, take a thorough look at any card under magnification to inspect for any imperfections before deciding if it’s worth paying to grade.

Another major determinant is the value and significance of the card itself. The more valuable and historically important the card is in pristine condition, the more it will benefit from third party authentication and grading to establish its condition and provenance. High value vintage rookie cards of all-time great players like Mike Trout, Ken Griffey Jr., Mickey Mantle or cards of notable moments and achievements have the most potential to gain value from grading compared to common modern parallel variations. Condition census registry cards that are realistically candidates for the finest known of their kind should almost always be graded to establish their condition relative to others.

The year and set the card is from can also factor in to its grading potential. As a general pattern, older vintage cards from the pre-1980s that are in remarkable condition have more to gain from authentication versus modern mass-produced card designs of the past few decades. There are exceptions for particularly valuable rookie or serial numbered insert cards. The grading population reports provided by services can give you an idea of how few of a certain vintage remain in top grades to realize there is value in having it stand out as one of the best surviving examples.

While the subjective aesthetics of a card’s appearance is partially determined by its grade, certain visually striking error, variation or serial number cards that have inherent scarcity or collectability also make for strong grading candidates independent of raw market value alone. Colored parallel cards, autos, relics, serial number ‘1/1’ cards and anomalies that increase inherent appeal can benefit from the added legitimacy and visibility grading brings.

Factors like the player’s career trajectory, impending Hall of Fame induction or milestones they achieve after the card was printed that impact their legacy and collectability over time are other longer term considerations when choosing cards that have outlook for future appreciation. Grading establishes a verified anchor point to build value from as recognition and demand increases.

The grading service and turnaround options are the final key factors. While higher tiers are more secure and command a premium, budget or standard levels are acceptable for most common mainstream cards. But the very best and most valuable vintage cards merit top-level grading withPopulation reporting, census, and guarantee. Also pay attention to current estimated wait times as some experience backlogs during busy seasons.

With patience and scrutiny, choosing which cards deserve the investment of grading requires weighing all these aspects to maximize return. Focusing submission on historically significant rookie cards, key moments and enduring all-time great players in pristine condition is usually a winning long term strategy for adding value through third party authentication.