Guides, Tips & Tricks

Discover expert guides and tips to level up your Pokémon TCG knowledge!
From grading insights to collecting strategies and set breakdowns, we’ve got everything you need. Master the game, grow your collection, and stay ahead with M1NT TCG.

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)
• Most popular Pokémon TCG grading company
• Grades from 1 to 10, with PSA 10 (Gem Mint) being highly valuable
• Best for collectors looking to maximize resale value

BGS (Beckett Grading Services)
• Offers sub-grades for centering, edges, corners, and surface
• BGS Black Label 10 is one of the most prestigious grades
• Ideal for high-end collectors and competitive grading

CGC (Certified Guaranty Company)
• Known for its fast turnaround times and strict grading standards
• Offers sub-grades and half grades (e.g., 9.5)
• Affordable option for both collectors and sellers

SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation)
• Historically focused on sports cards but gaining traction in Pokémon TCG
• Simple 1 to 10 grading scale with black-and-white slabs
• Good for vintage Pokémon cards

5 Reasons to Grade Your Pokémon Cards

Here are the 5 main reasons to grade your Pokémon card:

Protect Your Cards – Grading seals your cards in a case, preventing damage
Boost Market Value – A graded card can be worth 5-10x more than a raw card
Verify Authenticity – Avoid scams and prove your card is legitimate
Easier to Sell & Trade – Buyers trust graded cards, making transactions smoother
Showcase Your Collection – Graded cards look professional and are great for display

How to Prep Your Pokémon Cards for Grading

Before sending your Pokémon cards for grading, follow these steps to ensure the best possible grade:

Choose the Best Cards – Inspect for scratches, whitening, centering, and edge wear
Use Protective Sleeves – Place the card in a penny sleeve and a semi-rigid cardholder
Avoid Touching the Surface – Handle cards with clean hands or gloves
Check for Print Lines & Holos – Surface imperfections can lower grades
Select the Right Grading Company – Consider cost, turnaround time, and resale value

Grading your Pokémon cards adds credibility, protection, and value, making it an essential step for serious collectors and investors. Whether you’re looking to preserve your favorite cards or maximize resale value, grading is the best way to secure your collection’s future.

Ready to grade your cards? Start today and give your collection the premium treatment it deserves!


Check out our partner page where we offer you a discount if you signup to M1NT and use the code.