Whether or not a baseball card is worth grading depends on several factors related to the card itself and the current baseball card market. The grading process involves professionally authenticating and encapsulating a card in a plastic holder while also assigning it a numerical grade based on its condition and appearance. This grade can significantly impact the card’s value.
The higher the anticipated grade, the more likely a card will be worth submitting for professional grading. Modern cards in pristine mint condition straight out of the pack have the best chance at grades of Mint 9 or Mint 10, which see big premiums in value. Even well-centered and sharp vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s that appear to be in the Excellent-Mint range may be worth a submission. Top rookie cards, especially from the late 1980s rookie booms, also typically gain value from professional grading if the condition warrants it.
autograph cards present additional issues to consider. Swatches or memorabilia pieces can add value but also increase risk of damage. Authenticity is also a heightened concern for signed cards not redeemed from official issuers. Overall condition still matters greatly, as low-grade autographed cards may sell for just a small premium over a raw card.
Key factors that indicate whether a card is a grading candidate include:
Year/era of issue: Older vintage cards from the 1950s-1970s in top condition have the most upside, as mint examples are extremely rare. 1980s-90s issues need very sharp corners and surfaces to emerge as true gems. Modern cards must essentially look pack fresh.
Notoriety of player: Rookie cards or iconic plays/players with strong collector followings are most likely to recoup grading costs, especially for all-time greats. Lesser players may not create grading demand.
Scarcity of issue: Rare parallel or serial numbered cards from small print runs have collector appeal. Common base cards require virtual perfecition to gain strong interest at auction.
Collector grade expectations: Consult population reports to get a sense of the number of grades for that card. Strong odds of earning one of the top two grades (Mint 9 or Mint 10) increase profit potential.
Value expectations: High-value vintage cards over $1,000 raw or modern rookies over $500 are most likely to experience sufficient grade-related appreciation to justify expenses. But there are no hard rules.
Issue defects: Offset printing, centering issues or production flaws on older cards make top numerical grades very hard to attain and sometimes not worthwhile.
Personal attachment or sentiment: Unique personal collection pieces may not make strict financial sense to grade but provide enjoyment.
Turnaround time concerns: Be aware of current company backlogs, as timely listings optimize sales windows in a dynamic market. Express services require more funds.
Autograph/relic cards: Higher potential value but authenticity/damage risks. BGS Authenticated holder provides peace of mind for signed items.
Baseball cards from renowned players pre-1980 in excellent+ condition or high-value modern rookie cards that appear to merit one of the top PSA or BGS grades have the strongest probability of a financially positive grading experience based on projected post-grade appreciation. But sentimental cards or pieces with pressing time concerns may also merit consideration. An understanding of population reports and marketplace trends informs the decision. With diligent card selection, the costs can pay for themselves multiple times over at auction.
