How Much Does it Cost to Get Your Pokémon Cards Graded?
Purchasing and collecting rare Pokémon cards can be a thrilling experience, but few collectors are aware of the process of grading these highly valuable items. Grading a Pokémon card involves evaluation by a professional service such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) to determine its condition and authenticate its legitimacy. In this article, we will examine the cost of getting your Pokémon cards graded and uncover the secrets behind this mystical process.
Cost
The cost of getting your Pokémon cards graded varies depending on the type of card and the grading service used. PSA grading typically starts at $25 for a card valued lower than $499.99. However, if you want a quicker turnaround time or have a higher-value card, the cost can increase to $75 or more per card.
| Grading Tier | PSA Grading Charge |
|---|---|
| Lower than $499.99 | $25 |
| $500-$999 | $30 to $40 |
| $1,000-$1,999 | $50 |
| $2,000-$2,999 | $60 |
Factors Affecting Grade
Before getting your cards graded, it’s crucial to understand what factors play a role in determining a card’s grade. Each grading service uses a custom scale, but generally speaking, corners are assessed on a range from 0-15, while centering and surface qualities are evaluated on separate scales.
- Edge wear: Any damage, creases, or scratching on the edges of the card affects its grade, with more significant damage resulting in a lower score.
- Centering: Aligning of the card along its borders affects the grading, with perfect 50/50 alignments receiving the highest scores.
How to Choose a Grading Service
Researching the different grading services available can be overwhelming for beginners. PSA and Beckett Grading Services (BGS) are two top-tier companies with their proprietary grading systems. NGC is another well-reputed company specializing in authenticating and grading coins rather than sports memorabilia or trading cards.
| Comparison of Top Grading Services |
| — | PSA | BGS | NGC |
| Cost | Highest | Lower | Lower-Moderate |
| Customer Service | Good | Best | Best |
| Rarity | Limited | Limited-Common | Rare |
| Turnaround Time | Week-2 Weeks | Next Day-1 Week | 2-4 Days |
Do Graded Cards Lose Value?
A PSA-graded card can command a premium price due to its increased value and exclusivity. However, with proper storage and handling, a graded card can increase in value over time due to its condition and unique provenance. Grade 10 cards receive the highest prices, offering the ultimate validation of card condition.
| Card Rarity | Price (Un-Graded) | Graded (PSA/ BGS) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | * | $500$- $1,000 |
| Mythsic | * | $2,500$- $5,000 |
Conclusión