Tag Archives: grading

GRADING BASEBALL CARDS NEAR ME

Leave a reply

Getting your valuable baseball card collection professionally graded can help unlock its full potential value. Third party grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC and others assign numerical grade conditions that bring standardization and trust to the marketplace. But how do you know which companies to use, what the grading process entails, and where you can get cards graded locally? This comprehensive guide will outline everything you need to know about grading baseball cards near you.

The Big Three Grading Companies

When it comes to baseball card grading, there are three major third party authentication and grading services that dominate the industry – PSA, BGS, and SGC. Each brings their own distinguishing qualities:

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is considered the gold standard, setting the market value standard since inception in 1991. They pioneered the concept of third party authentication and numerical grading scales. PSA is best for high value vintage and modern cards.

BGS (Beckett Grading Services) was founded in 1992 and uses a more subjective color-based sub-grade system along with an overall grade. BGS holders tend to command a slight premium over PSA for modern inserts and parallels.

SGC (Sportscard Garanty Company) is a newer entrant from 2000 focusing on affordability and fast turnaround times. While more affordable, SGC cards may carry a small inherent discount relative to the other top two companies. SGC is a good option for budget collectors.

All three companies use a rigorous scientific analysis process and have multilevel quality control to ensure grading consistency and protect against grader bias. Consider the various company reputation, holder design, population report data and your intended future sale needs when deciding which to use.

Grading Process Overview

Here are the basic steps that any card will go through during the grading process:

Submit your card(s) using the company’s submission form and paying the appropriate grading fee per card (usually $10-20 depending on service level).

The submission will be logged in the company’s database and the cards will enter the authentication queue.

An authenticator will thoroughly inspect the card under high powered microscopes and sophisticated digital imaging to verify it has not been tampered with, trimmed or altered. Any restoration work will be noted.

If deemed authentic, the card advances to grading where a trained grader will analyze factors like centering, corners, edges and surface for wear based on standardized grade criteria.

Numerical grades on the popular 20-point scale are applied (8 is excellent condition) along with optional Star/Gem sub grades.

6 6. Cards move through quality control review by a separate auditor.

The card is sealed in the company’s tamper evident holder with the assigned grade clearly displayed for prospective buyers to see.

The sealed holder is then shipped back to you along with a photo/digital imaging confirmation of the grade details for your records. The grading registry is also documented.

This process aims to remove bias and subjectivity so investors and collectors can have confidence placing value based on the assigned numeric grade. Overall a rigorous scientific process that typically takes 2-6 weeks depending on volume and selected service level.

Grading Near Me Options

Now that you understand the top companies and grading process, how can you get cards graded locally to avoid lengthy mail-in times? Here are some nearby options:

Show and drop services – PSA, BGS, SGC and others offer options at select card shows to hand over submissions for express or economy bulk grading off-site. Ask at your next local vintage or modern card show.

Authorized on-site graders – Some local card shops partner with grading companies and have authorized resident graders who can do instant grading of smaller bulk submissions on the spot in their store. A personal inspection before sealing.

Local authentication/grading stores – Independent stores like Philadelphia’s “Beckett Authentication” offer full grading authentication services on-consignment for all the major companies. Fast turnaround without paying corporate submission fees.

Hobby insider Facebook groups – Connected collectors offer group submission deals and ride shares for onsite/express bulk drop off and pickups of major grading sites which are often within driving distance of major metro areas.

In-person grading courses – Events hosted by the graders themselves to learn directly from experts and get on-site feedback/preliminary grades for cards before deciding to submit through normal channels.

With a bit of searching, you open up new possibilities for getting valuable cards authenticated, graded and slabbed locally to avoid shipping hassles and wait times. Talk to your local shop or check Facebook to find grading help close to home.

Final Tips Before You Submit

Above all, only grade cards you truly believe have a chance to grade well. Submitting everything risks wasting money on cards not worthy. Also consider:

Choose your grading company based on intended future sale/ highest estimated return. Not all companies are equal.

Card shows/shops often offer group submissions for bulk saving on fees and faster return.

Always be meticulous prepping the card surfaces for digital imaging and sent under perfect penny sleeve/toploader protection to survive shipping.

Know the population report data and true market prices to calculate estimated grading costs versus potential post-grade value increase.

Getting the right cards professionally graded is a key investment strategy for collectors and investors looking to unlock market value and ensure authenticity over the long run. With the right research on services, process and available options near you, it has never been easier to take advantage of third-party grading for your most prized baseball card possessions. Take the first step to increasing returns on your collection.

BEST GRADING SERVICE FOR BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Grading baseball cards is a way to authenticate, preserve, and establish the condition and value of collectible cards. There are several professional third-party grading companies that provide this service, but which one is the best? This article will explore the top baseball card grading services and compare their features, reputation, and pricing to help you decide.

PSA is arguably the most well-known and respected name in the card grading industry. Founded in 2000, PSA pioneered the modern card grading concept and set the standard that others follow. They guarantee accurate and consistent grading through rigorous quality control processes. Submissions are examined by multiple experienced graders and any discrepancies are adjudicated by expert reviewers. PSA also uses sophisticated imaging technology and high-power magnification to detect even subtle flaws. This level of scrutiny helps ensure assigned grades are very reliable indicators of a card’s condition.

In terms of reputation and brand recognition, PSA is unparalleled. Their slabs are the most sought-after by collectors and fetch a premium in the marketplace. This is a testament to the trust and confidence the PSA name carries after decades of leadership. This top-tier service does come at a higher price compared to competitors. Basic grading with a turnaround of 30 business days currently costs $15 per card with volume discounts available. Expedited 7-day service is $30 per card.

BGS (Beckett Grading Services) is another major player that was founded in 1992. They pioneered the use of plastic slabs to protect and display cards post-grading. Like PSA, BGS utilizes a detailed multi-point inspection process performed by multiple experienced graders. Their reputation is also very strong, though some perceive their standards to be slightly more lenient than PSA. BGS slabs tend to grade certain attributes like centering a bit more generously. Their pricing is competitive, currently $12 for a 30-day regular service and $25 for 7 days. Volume discounts are also available.

SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) has grown rapidly since starting in 2000 to become a notable third option. They have earned respect for accurate, consistent grading backed by a money-back guarantee. SGC’s turnaround times and pricing are very competitive at $8.50 for a 30-day regular service and $20 for 7 days. Their modern “Jewel Case” slabs are stylish and affordable. However, SGC’s brand recognition still lags the top two, so their slabs may not carry as high of values in the resale market quite yet. Still, SGC is a solid choice for basic grading needs.

There are also several smaller, specialized independent graders. CSG (Collectible Supplies & Grading) focuses only on vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s and offers affordable $6 grading. HGA (Hero Graded Accessories) emphasizes flashy customization options for their slabs. These operations have much smaller scale and market share compared to the big three. For most collectors, PSA, BGS, or SGC will provide the best balance of service, reputation, and value.

In terms of which company to choose, it depends on your priorities and budget. PSA is the industry leader for maximum confidence in assigned grades and resale value, but also charges the most. BGS is a close second in reputation and offers competitive pricing. SGC provides a great value option for basic authentication and preservation needs. Ultimately, consider your card’s rarity and value, desired turnaround time, and intended purpose (to collect or resell) when deciding between these top baseball card grading services. With careful research, any of them can do an excellent job for your collection.

In summary, PSA, BGS, and SGC are the major professional third-party graders trusted by collectors worldwide. They each have strong quality control standards and experienced staff. Reputation varies slightly with PSA at the top, but any of these companies will properly preserve and authenticate baseball cards. Consider your priorities and budget to determine which offers the best overall value for your needs. Using a reputable grading service is highly recommended to establish a card’s condition, history, and marketplace value.

BASEBALL CARDS GRADING NEAR ME

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century. With so many cards from different eras and players being collected, the condition and grade of each card plays an important role in its value. For serious collectors looking to build a valuable collection or sell individual cards, having cards professionally graded is essential. This process is called card grading. While there are a few national companies that offer grading services, having cards graded locally can be more convenient. Here is an in-depth look at baseball card grading services available near many collectors.

One of the most trusted third-party authentication and grading companies is Professional Sports Authenticator, commonly known as PSA. While they are based in California, PSA has authorized local dealers all over the country who can submit cards on a collector’s behalf to be graded. Finding a PSA Authorized Dealer near you is easy on their website by simply searching your zip code or city. Dealers will guide you through the submission process, package your cards securely, and ship them off to PSA’s headquarters. A few weeks later, the cards return encased in protective slabs marked with their official PSA grade. Going through an authorized PSA dealer is reassuring for collectors, as all submissions are handled according to PSA’s strict standards.

Another major national grader is Beckett Grading Services, known by their acronym BGS. Similar to PSA, BGS has a network of official submission centers across the U.S. that collectors can utilize. These BGS Official Submission Centers are local hobby shops and collectible dealers fully trained on BGS standards and procedures. They will accept cards for bulk submission, which offers a discounted group rate. Within 4-6 weeks, the cards return securely packaged with their official BGS grade noted on protective plastic holders. Going local through a BGS Center streamlines the process and ensures proper care of the cards through the entire grading workflow.

For collectors seeking a faster turnaround or not wanting to send cards through the mail, there are also local independent grading services available. Many experienced hobby shop owners who have graded thousands of cards over the years have started their own independent grading businesses. While not carrying the name recognition of PSA or BGS, independent graders can still provide a knowledgeable assessment of condition and signage. Turnaround times tend to be much quicker as well, often just a few business days. Cards will be encapsulated in third-party slabs clearly marked with the independent grader’s stamp of approval. This is a good lower-cost option for casual collectors just wanting a condition assessment.

Some local coin and collectible shops have staff graders who will inspect cards brought in and assign verbal condition assessments. While not encapsulated, getting an expert’s on-site opinion can help value rare finds or identify problem areas requiring full professional grading. These shops often have membership programs where card grading services are included for a monthly or yearly fee. For collectors on a budget just starting out, utilizing local shop graders offers a free way to learn about conditions. Over time, valuable cards can then be submitted for formal third-party grading.

Whether choosing national leaders like PSA and BGS or independent local options, the key benefits of baseball card grading are consistency and protection of value. A professional numeric grade gives collectors and sellers a standardized way to compare condition across different eras and players. Encasing cards in protective holders also preserves them long-term from risk of damage. For serious collectors, building a collection of professionally graded vintage and modern cards will help maintain the long-term value of their investment. With card grading services now available through authorized dealers, submission centers and independent experts locally, there has never been an easier way to get high-quality authentication and preservation for any collection.

SGC GRADING BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Introduction to SGC Grading Baseball Cards

The Sports Collectibles Guaranty LLC, more commonly known as SGC, is a leading third-party authentication and grading service for collectibles such as sports cards, comic books, and memorabilia. Founded in 2000, SGC has rapidly grown to become one of the top authentication companies in the collectibles industry alongside leaders PSA and BGS. This article will provide an in-depth look at SGC and their services for grading baseball cards, including history, grading process, turnaround times, holder designs, and more.

History and Background of SGC

SGC began authenticating and grading collectibles in 2000 with a focus on vintage cards from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s that were in higher grades. They aimed to be more affordable and provide faster turnaround than the established PSA and BGS services. Over the past two decades, SGC has expanded their services to include modern sports cards from the 90s onward as well as other collectibles. By 2007, they had overtaken BGS to become the third largest grading company behind only PSA.

Today SGC operates out of facilities in Illinois and Florida with over 20 full-time employees dedicated to authentication, grading, customer service, and quality control. They have graded millions of collectibles and remain focused on providing an affordable alternative to the “big two” grading companies. Some key events in SGC’s history include opening international fulfillment centers in 2014, unveiling ultra-modern “SGC Elite” holders in 2016, and releasing new encased “Black Label” holders in 2021.

The SGC Grading Process

Like other authentication companies, SGC has a multi-step process for properly grading collectibles:

Submission – Customers package items and submit order forms/fees to SGC. Shipping/insurance is the customer’s responsibility.

Authentication – SGC authenticators inspect items under high-power loupes to verify authenticity. Replicas/fakes are rejected ungraded.

Grading – Graders examine the item, considering factors like centering, corners, edges, and surface. Using the established 1-10 point scale, a numeric grade is assigned.

Holdering – Authenticated and graded items are then sealed in tamper-proof SGC holders with the assigned grade, ID number, and other info.

Shipping – Once holdered, items are returned to the customer along with a printed grading details sheet within their estimated turnaround timeframe.

This thorough process ensures consistent, impartial grading while detecting counterfeits. Customers can track order status online throughout the entire process.

SGC Baseball Card Grading Scale

Like PSA and BGS, SGC uses the established 1-10 point numerical scale to grade the condition and quality of baseball cards:

1 (Poor): Cards in very rough shape with heavy wear
2-4 (Poor-Good): Significant wear, flaws present
5 (Excellent): Noticeable wear but still solid condition
6 (Near Mint): Light wear, small flaws may be present
7 (Mint): Very minimal wear, edges/corners remain sharp
8 (Gem Mint): No discernible flaws, near pristine
9 (Mint): Pristine, eligible for finest registries
10 (Gem Mint Black Label): Flawless, best of the best cards

Beyond the numerical grade, SGC also assigns descriptive labels to grades like “Ex” for 5.5 and terms like “Gem” for exceptionally high grades. Their population reports provide statistics on how often each grade is assigned as a benchmark for condition rarity.

SGC Holder Designs

One of SGC’s strengths is their aesthetically pleasing yet practical holder designs:

Standard Holders: Black with silver SGC logo for most vintage/modern cards graded 1-8.

“Elite” Holders: Modern clear holder with diagonal SGC banner for higher value 9-10 cards.

“Black Label” Holders: Encapsulated in a clear encased box with gold banner for true virtuosic Gem Mint 10 cards.

“Slab” Holders: Larger protective holders for valuable vintage cards, stamps, autographs, etc.

All SGC holders have tamper-proof sealing, grade designation, issue date/details printed directly on the holder surface for clear viewing without opening. This not only authenticates but displays graded cards beautifully for collection/resale purposes.

Turnaround Times and Service Options

Standard SGC card grading takes approximately 3-6 weeks once received depending on volume. Express/rush services are available for an additional fee with timelines like:

Express – 3 business days post-delivery
10 Day Service – 10 calendar days post-delivery
3 Week Service – 3 calendar weeks post-delivery

Larger bulk/dealer submissions may be subject to different rates and timelines. Customers can also add value-added services like authenticating encased unopened wax packs/boxes from the 80s/90s vintage era.

Reputable resubmission policies allow cards to potentially upgrade in grade with no penalty. Most major card dealers/distributors offer SGC grading submission/consignment programs as well. Overall their turnarounds and various offerings make SGC accessible for collectors of any budget.

The Market Acceptance of SGC Graded Cards

While still not quite on par with the golden standard of PSA for value, SGC graded cards enjoy strong demand and marketplace acceptance thanks to their reputation as a trusted third-party authenticator:

Modern sports cards – Graded SGC rookies/stars of the 90s/2000s achieve 95-98% value compared to PSA.

Vintage cards – High grade vintage SGC slabs command 80-90% value vs. PSA due to limited population reports proving rarity.

Auction houses – Major online auction platforms like eBay and Heritage accept SGC holders on par with PSA/BGS.

Private/dealer sales – Savvy collectors recognize SGC as a respected brand, allowing cards to sell near PSA prices in many cases.

As SGC continues to refine processes and holder designs, their mainstream collector acceptance will only increase over time as a formidable alternative to pricier grading services. Overall grading with SGC provides both authentication assurance and strong resale/trade value.

Conclusion

The Sports Collectibles Guaranty has grown into an elite third-party authenticator and grader over 20 years focused on affordability, customer service, and developing an outstanding reputation with collectors and dealers. Their tried and true grading process paired with attractive holders have certified millions of sports and other collectibles, including some of the most valuable vintage and modern baseball cards. While still often a value option compared to the top two, SGC graded items enjoy near universal acceptance and command top dollar based on their assigned numerical grades. Collectors can feel secure in SGC’s abilities to properly authenticate, appraise condition, and encapsulate their prized cards.

BASEBALL CARDS GRADING ONLINE

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been around since the late 19th century and collecting them has remained a popular hobby for decades. With the rise of the internet, more and more collectors are now choosing to grade their baseball cards online through third-party grading services. Card grading involves professionally evaluating a card’s condition and assigning it a numerical grade based on its state of preservation. This process provides collectors with an impartial assessment of a card’s quality that can impact its value.

There are several major companies that offer grading services for baseball cards sent in by mail, with the two industry leaders being Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Both PSA and BGS have rigorous grading standards and assign grades on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being flawless gem mint condition. A card receiving a grade of 8 or higher from either service is considered to have excellent eye appeal and preservation worthy of a premium. Collectors can submit their cards for grading through each company’s website by following submission guidelines and paying appropriate fees.

Once received, the card graders at PSA or BGS will carefully examine the card under bright lighting using high-powered loupes. Every aspect of the card’s surface is scrutinized, including the centering, corners, edges and surface. Any flaws such as scratches, stains or dents that take away from the overall appeal are noted. The graders also check that no alterations have been made, such as repairs or trims to the original size. After thorough inspection, the card is sealed in a hard plastic holder along with the assigned numerical grade for protection and easy verification of authenticity.

The turnaround time for a basic grading submission at PSA or BGS generally ranges from a few weeks to a few months depending on order volume and selected service level. Both companies offer expedited grading options for rush submissions that can be completed within a shorter timeframe, usually 1-2 weeks, for an additional fee. Collectors have the choice between various submission tiers that determine factors like packaging, insurance and return shipping costs. Online order tracking is provided so submitters know the status of their cards throughout the grading process.

Once the graded cards are returned, collectors gain several key benefits. The third-party grading gives an impartial verification of a card’s condition that is trusted within the wider collecting community. This grading certification helps establish a fair market value baseline for the card compared to others receiving the same numerical grade. Slabbed cards in plastic holders also have improved preservation that can help maintain or even increase their value long-term. Perhaps most importantly, the grading provides added confidence for collectors should they eventually choose to sell their vintage cards.

As the hobby has grown, so too have the values of top graded vintage baseball cards. Iconic cards like the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner, 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie and 1955 Topps Sandy Koufax rookie that receive high grades from PSA or BGS can sell for hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars at auction. Even more common vintage issues can realize substantial premiums with strong grades. For example, a 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie in PSA Gem Mint 10 condition recently sold for over $27,000 compared to a few hundred in lower grades.

The explosion of online third-party grading over the past two decades has helped grow interest in vintage sports card collecting to new heights. By providing an impartial quality assessment, grading gives both collectors and potential buyers added confidence in a card’s condition and authenticity. While submission costs need to be considered, the protection and potential financial upside for valuable vintage issues often makes grading well worth the investment. As one of the most popular and valuable collecting categories, baseball cards remain a staple in the world of sports memorabilia – and professional grading continues to play a major role online in preserving condition and verifying these vintage treasures.

BASEBALL CARDS GRADING COMPANIES

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century, with millions of cards produced each year depicting players, teams, and memorable moments from America’s pastime. As the hobby grew in popularity starting in the 1980s, the desire to authenticate and grade the condition and quality of vintage and modern cards also increased substantially. This led to the rise of third-party grading companies that provide grading and authentication services to add value, transparency, and liquidity to the baseball card market.

The modern era of baseball card grading began in the late 1980s with the founding of Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Founded in 2000 by Steve Grad and Mike Berk, PSA was the first major third-party authentication and grading service focused on sports trading cards and memorabilia. They established early standards for encapsulating cards in plastic holders and assigning numeric grades from 1 to 10 based on factors like centering, corners, edges and surface quality. PSA quickly became the dominant grader in the industry and remains the largest and most recognized brand today.

Another early player was Sports Card Guaranty (SCG), which was launched in 1991 and was acquired by Beckett Media in 2001. SCG/Beckett developed their own 10-point grading scale and authentication process. In the late 1990s, Beckett also began publishing authoritative price guides that listed PSA and SCG graded card values, further cementing the importance of third-party grading to the industry. In 2007, Beckett Media spun off SCG as its own independent company again.

In the 2000s, two new grading companies emerged that would come to challenge PSA’s market dominance – BGS (Beckett Grading Services) and SGC (Standard Grading Collectibles, formerly Sportscard Guaranty Corporation). BGS was launched in 2000 as a spin-off of SCG/Beckett to focus solely on grading. They used Beckett’s established brand recognition and grading scale. SGC was founded in 1991 but rebranded and relaunched in 2000 with a focus on affordable grading for the mass market of collectors.

Today, the “Big 4” third-party baseball card grading companies that dominate the industry are PSA, BGS, SGC, and the newer entrant HGA (Hong Kong Grading Authority), which launched in 2020. Each has its own niche:

PSA is considered the gold standard for vintage cards due to its long history and brand recognition. It typically has the longest turnaround times but also commands the highest prices for its slabs.

BGS is known for its superior holder design and focus on aesthetics like centering, corners and edges over surface flaws. It often grades tougher than PSA.

SGC offers the most affordable grading options, making it popular for modern card sets. Turnaround times are typically faster than PSA or BGS.

HGA has made a name for itself with its fast turnaround times (often just 1-2 weeks) and competitive pricing. Some question its longevity but it has gained acceptance in a short time.

In addition to the “Big 4,” several smaller or specialty grading companies also exist:

CSG (Collectible Sports Grading) focuses on vintage autographs, memorabilia and lower-end cards.

JSA (James Spence Authentication) specializes in autograph verification but also offers card grading.

GAI (Global Authentication Identification Services) is a niche brand that offers economy grading.

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) grades comics but also handles some vintage sports cards.

Grading has become an essential part of the collectibles industry, bringing standardization, transparency and added value. But it also introduces costs that can eat into profits – especially for bulk modern issues. The top brands like PSA, BGS, SGC and HGA will continue vying for market share through faster turnaround times, special label designs, bundle deals and other perks for collectors. With the popularity of sports card collecting at an all-time high, third-party grading looks poised to remain integral to the multi-billion dollar business of baseball cards.

AAA GRADING BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

AAA is one of the highest third-party grading levels for baseball cards issued by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Cards that receive an AAA designation are in pristine condition, often warranting a significant premium in value over lower graded examples.

To understand what it takes for a card to achieve an AAA grade, it’s important to look at the criteria grading services use. PSA and BGS employ rigorous inspection processes with high-powered loupes and lights to analyze every aspect of a card at an microscopic level. Graders take into account the card’s centering, corners, edges and surface for signs of wear and imperfections. Only the absolute cleanest examples that show no flaws are considered for the coveted AAA designation.

Centering is the most objective factor—graders use calipers and precise measurements to analyze if the front image is perfectly aligned between the borders. Slight off-centering in any direction can immediately disqualify a card from AAA status. Corners are inspected for sharpness and signs of damage like dings or bends. Dull or rounded corners are unacceptable. Edges are scrutinized for whitening or discoloration that occurs from the card being rubbed against other items over the years. The surface is checked under light for scratches, marks, stains or print defects under magnification.

Perhaps the biggest challenge for a card to achieve AAA is avoiding any surface issues over many decades. Even microscopic marks that are invisible to the naked eye can end up preventing the top grade. Storage conditions also play a major role—cards that spent significant time in attics, basements or poorly assembled albums almost certainly won’t grade AAA due to accumulated wear. Top cards typically came straight from tightly sealed factory packs to protective holders.

Some other factors that can hinder an AAA designation include manufacturing defects from the original printing process. Miscuts, poor color registration, gloss variations and odd textures disqualify examples that would otherwise grade perfectly. Excessive glossiness may also be penalized if it appears altered rather than original.

The population reports from PSA and BGS provide statistics on just how rare AAA graded cards are. Out of hundreds of thousands of baseball cards submitted for grading each year, typically less than 1% will achieve the prestigious AAA designation. Iconic rookie cards from stars like Mickey Mantle, Ken Griffey Jr., Mike Trout and others have AAA populations frequently numbered in the single digits.

Collectors covet cards earning AAA status for their superior eye appeal and investment potential. They represent the finest known copies in existence and often trade for thousands of dollars or more in auction. Entire sets graded at AAA are virtually impossible to complete and exceed the value of even raw mint copies. Holding an example with this highest possible grade places a card in a very exclusive club and makes it a true trophy piece for any collection.

While AAA graded cards are out of reach financially for most collectors, they provide the gold standard that the entire third-party grading industry revolves around. The process of meticulously inspecting and assigning grades adds transparency and standardization to the hobby. It allows buyers to make informed purchases with confidence in a card’s condition and provenance. Achieving the pinnacle AAA designation is the holy grail for submissions, with fewer cards earning it than careers hitting .400 or pitching a perfect game. Those that do cement their place in the annals of sportscard history.

The AAA grade from PSA and BGS represents the cream of the crop when it comes to pristine baseball cards. It takes a true gem—one with perfect centering, sharp corners, clean edges and flawless surfaces—to attain this highest honor. The population reports show just how difficult and rare it is to achieve. Cards that earn AAA instantly become iconic trophies prized by advanced collectors around the world. They exemplify everything great about the hobby and its pursuit of perfection.

BASEBALL CARDS GRADING SERVICE

Leave a reply

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.

GRADING COST FOR BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Grading is a crucial part of determining the value and condition of a baseball card. There are several major companies that offer third-party grading services for sports cards, including PSA, SGC, BGS, Beckett Grading Services, and HGA. Each utilizes experts to assess factors like centering, corners, edges, and surfaces to assign an objective numeric grade on a consistent scale.

One of the most well-known companies is Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Founded in 2000, PSA was an early pioneer in third-party grading and authentication for collectibles. They inspect over 500,000 cards annually and have graded billions of dollars worth of material. PSA uses a numeric 1-10 scale where 10 is gem mint and 1 is poor. Half-grades like 8.5 are also possible. Beyond the numeric grade, PSA encapsulates each card in a hard plastic holder with a barcode for tracking and authenticity.

Submitting cards to PSA often makes the most sense for high-end, valuable vintage cards from the pre-war era through the early 1990s. PSA enjoys widespread brand recognition and grade stability in the marketplace. However, PSA also tends to be the most expensive professional grading service. Their standard turnaround times currently range from a few months up to a year depending on service level selected. Economy bulk submissions start at $10-15 per card while express expert grading can exceed $100 per card.

A slightly less expensive alternative to PSA is SGC (Sportscard Guarantee Corporation). Founded in 2000, SGC uses the same 1-10 scale and encapsulation process but charges slightly lower submission fees. For basic grading, SGC fees often fall in the $8-12 range per card versus $10-15 at PSA. Turnaround times at SGC also tend to be faster on average. However, SGC does not have quite the same brand strength or resale value premium as PSA graded cards in the high-end vintage market. Their strength is in affordable grading of modern issues and autograph verification.

BGS (Beckett Grading Services) is another respected third party company but focuses more exclusively on grading comic books, autographs, and vintage trading cards versus modern sport issues. Their strength is in mint older material given their experience with condition sensitive pre-war and antique collectibles. BGS uses a simpler 1-10 black label scale without plus grades. Cards graded by BGS generally appeal to investors and collectors focused on pristine quality examples worth $5,000 and up. Their higher minimum submission fees and longer turnarounds make them less practical for most modern general card collectors.

Two relative newcomers in the card grading space are CGC (Certified Guarantee Company, a subsidiary of Collectors Universe) and Hobby Grading Accredited (HGA). Both focus on providing fast and affordable grading at slightly lower standards than the “big three.” CGC launched in 2000 and uses a similar encapsulation process as PSA/BGS/SGC. HGA is even more recent, having launched grading operations in 2021. They strive to be extremely fast without sacrificing integrity through a bulk submission and auto-grading process. For collectors wanting basic authentication and protection of modern sports cards in the $100-500 range, CGC and HGA offer a budget-friendly option. Resale values may be slightly lower for cards bearing their holder versus the dominant PSA, BGS, and SGC brands.

In choosing a grading company, factors like turnaround time, cost, and collector base/resale value for that particular brand must be weighed against the potential value and condition of the card. PSA and SGC tend to be the safest options for cards worth thousands due to their proven stable holder brands and track records dating back decades. BGS offers top quality certification for pristine vintage rarities. CGC and HGA can work well for basic protection of modern affordable cards or bulk submissions. Proper research is needed to get the best protection and service relative to each unique collectible. Third party grading brings objectiveness, preserves condition, and adds value – but also requires due diligence in selecting a reputable grader.

BASEBALL CARDS GRADING SCALE

Leave a reply

The grading of baseball cards is an important part of the hobby for collectors and investors. Over the decades, various grading scales have been developed to assign a condition grade to a card to indicate its state of preservation and value relative to other graded examples. The two largest and most prominent third-party grading services for sportscards are Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Both use a 1-10 point scale to grade the condition or quality of a card, with 10 being the highest mint grade and 1 the lowest grade for a very poor quality card.

The current PSA/BGS 10-point scale has become the industry standard, but it was not always the case. In the early days of the hobby in the 1980s, there was no universal grading system used. Collectors would describe a card’s condition in general terms like “near mint”, “very good”, or “poor”. In the 1990s, Beckett introduced their monthly magazine which included population reports that listed how many examples of particular cards had been graded by BGS at each level. This helped bring more consistency and objectivity to condition assessment.

In 2000, PSA launched a similar population reporting service and their grading quickly became the most recognized. On the PSA/BGS 10-point scale, the grades are defined as follows:

PSA/BGS 10 – Designates a flawless card, often referred to as “gem mint”. Corners are sharp, surfaces are clean and smooth with no print defects or flaws of any kind under close inspection.

PSA/BGS 9 – Considered near mint (NM) or “mint” condition. May have a slight production flaw or imperfection but nothing significant enough to detract from eye appeal. Corners remain sharp.

PSA/BGS 8 – Still near mint but edges could be a touch more rounded. Surfaces remain smooth with light print flaws possible.

PSA/BGS 7 – Edges will start to show slight rounding but card faces remain clean. Very minimal wear.

PSA/BGS 6 – Designated as an “excellent” grade. Edges will show more rounding and surfaces could have minor print defects or light scratches. Still displays nice color and detail.

PSA/BGS 5 – Called “very good”. Definite rounding of edges with scratches or print lines on surfaces now acceptable. Color and details still clear.

PSA/BGS 4 – Edges will be dull or rounded. Scratches and print lines or spots now expected on surfaces. Slight discoloration possible. Designated a “good” grade.

PSA/BGS 3 – Edges rounded and worn down significantly. Heavy scratches, stains or discoloration on surfaces lowering eye appeal. Designated a “fair” grade.

PSA/BGS 2 – Edges severely worn and rounding. Heavily scratched surfaces with color loss. Designated a “poor” grade.

PSA/BGS 1 – Considered ungraded. Severe surface damage and edges completely worn down. Staple holes, tears, pieces missing.

In addition to the numeric grade, PSA and BGS also designate special labels for attributes like centering, corners and edges which can affect value. A “black label” from PSA signifies a true “gem mint” quality card that is not only a PSA 10 but has perfect centering, corners and edges as well. This is the pinnacle grade and cards achieving it gain a substantial premium.

Other third party graders also use variations of the 10-point scale. SGC, for instance, uses a similar definition of grades but labels them as “pristine”, “gem mint”, “excellent”, etc. instead of numbers. CGC, the main comic book grading company, does use numeric scores of 1-10 that correspond closely to the sportscard scales.

In the raw, ungraded market, conditions are still generally described verbally as “near mint”, “very good”, etc. But the consensus is the PSA/BGS numeric scale provides collectors the most objective way to compare graded cards and understand relative condition and scarcity. As the population of a certain vintage card increases at the top grades over time, it also affects perceived value and demand. The grading scale allows for a standardized condition assessment that the modern hobby is now built upon.