The Complete Guide to Pokémon Card Grading
Pokémon card grading is essential for collectors and investors looking to protect and maximize the value of their cards.
A graded card is professionally assessed, authenticated, and encapsulated, ensuring long-term protection and market credibility. Below, we explore everything you need to know about grading Pokémon cards, from the process to the best companies and why grading matters.
What is Pokémon Card Grading?
Grading is the process of having a professional third-party company evaluate the condition and authenticity of your Pokémon card. The card is assessed based on key factors like centering, edges, corners, and surface condition before receiving a grade (typically from 1 to 10). Once graded, the card is sealed in a tamper-proof case, preserving its condition and increasing its value.
Why Grade Your Pokémon Cards?
✅ Preserve Card Condition – Grading protects cards from wear, damage, and environmental factors
✅ Increase Value – Higher-graded cards (e.g., PSA 10, BGS 10) sell for significantly higher prices
✅ Authenticate Cards – Grading ensures your Pokémon cards are genuine and not counterfeit
✅ Enhance Marketability – Buyers trust graded cards more, making them easier to sell
✅ Professional Display – Slabbed cards look sleek and ideal for collectors
Who Should You Grade With?
Choosing the right grading service is crucial. Factors like grading standards, turnaround time, cost, and resale value should be considered.
The biggest grading companies offer different perks depending on your needs.
Read more about the top grading companies further below.
Top Pokémon Card Grading Companies
Here are the most trusted and recognized Pokémon card grading companies.
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.
We hope you found this guide about grading Pokémon cards useful.
Make sure to head over and check the many graded cards we have for sale on our marketplace.
