The card grading process.

1970 Topps Reggie Jackson #140, graded a PSA 6 and marked as “excellent mint” (EX-MT) condition.

What does it mean to get a card “graded,” and what does that process look like?

Grading is the process whereby authentication companies, such as Professional Sports Authenticator ("PSA”) or Beckett Collectibles (“Beckett”) assign a number value based on the condition of a card. These companies employ professionals who are trained to authenticate and grade cards based on various factors such as the card’s centering, the coloring, and whether it has any defects or signs of wear such as wrinkles or creases. Cards are assigned a grade from 1 through 10, which range between poor and mint condition.

Getting a high grade on a card can greatly increase its value, but it takes time and costs money to get a card graded. The card has to be mailed off to whichever third party authenticator you choose. Prices and waiting times vary, but you can expect to pay an average of $50 per card for a return in approximately 90 days. If you want a quicker return and/or are submitting higher value card, it can cost up to $300 per card. Also remember that there are no guarantees as to what grade you will receive on a submitted card! You may pay a premium for a card that you expect to come back as mint or near mint condition, and find that it is a much lower grade or is perhaps not even authentic. That’s why it’s sometimes better to sell your raw cards to a professional buyer who has the expertise to sort through a collection and determine which cards are worth the time and money of grading. You get a guaranteed, immediate return, and don’t have to deal with the hassle and risk of the grading process. But if you are interested in getting your cards graded on your own, be sure to check the PSA and/or Beckett websites for current prices and estimated return times. They are constantly changing based on current demand!