Grading
Submit your raw cards to PSA
What is Trading Card Authentication and Grading?
PSA is the largest and most respected third-party authentication and grading company in the world for trading cards and memorabilia.
Authentication is the process of verifying the originality or genuineness of a trading card. Grading is assessing the quality and condition of a trading card using PSA’s 10-point grading scale. Grading can only take place after a trading card has been deemed authentic.
Whether vintage, modern or TCG, PSA authenticates and grades cards throughout the hobby. Learn more about our grading process, insightful content and collecting resources below.
The Trading Card Authentication & Grading Process
Step 1
Authentication
A series of PSA graders review your cards for authenticity. If genuine, PSA looks for evidence of doctoring, such as re-coloring or trimming.
Step 2
Grading
If your cards pass authentication, PSA grades the condition of each card on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being best.
Step 3
Encapsulation
PSA encapsulates each card in its own sonically sealed, tamper-evident case. The card's grade and certification number are displayed on the PSA LightHouse™ label.
Trading Card Grading Resources
Grading Standards
PSA grading is the widely accepted standard in the trading card industry. Using PSA’s 10-point grading scale, our graders examine each card before applying its grade. Learn more about PSA’s grading scale, starting from PSA Poor all the way to PSA Gem Mint 10.
PSA PhotoGrade™
When comparing your cards to PSA’s 10-point grading scale, it helps to have a visual representation for reference. That’s where PSA PhotoGrade comes in. This helpful, free online tool provides high-resolution examples of the cards in each 1-10 grade. The best part? You can learn about the PSA grading scale using select legendary cards, like the 1933 Goudey #149 Babe Ruth or 1986 Fleer #57 Michael Jordan.
What to do after your card has been graded?
1. Join the PSA Collectors Club.
Not a member of the club? Join today to get free grading vouchers, bulk discounts and more.
Join now
2. Organize & Track Your Collection.
Organize and keep inventory of your card collection using the PSA Set Registry. You can even build sets and compete with other collectors. It’s the ultimate collecting tool and it’s free!
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3. Find out what your PSA-graded trading cards are worth.
Learn more about three great resources PSA offers to help you determine the value of your trading cards. Whether you’re looking to find the value of a vintage, modern or non-sport trading card, PSA has the answer.
Learn more
4. Stay connected with us.
Being connected with us on social media will help you stay informed of our latest promotions, events, giveaways and other special offers. Follow us today!
5. Sign up for our free e-Newsletter.
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