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.
