PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) uses a comprehensive grading system to evaluate the condition and authenticity of sports cards. Here's an overview of how PSA grades sports cards:

Submission Process

  • Collectors or dealers submit their cards to PSA for grading through online submission forms or at authorized PSA locations.
  • Cards are carefully packaged and shipped to PSA for evaluation.

Authentication

  • Upon receiving the cards, PSA first authenticates them to ensure they are genuine and not counterfeit or altered.

Grading Process

  • PSA graders meticulously examine each card under controlled conditions using magnification and specialized equipment.
  • Graders evaluate the card's centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall appearance.

Criteria for Grading

Centering:

  • Graders assess the symmetry of the image on the card in relation to its borders. Off-centering can result in a lower grade.

Corners:

  • The sharpness and integrity of the card's corners are examined. Rounded or dinged corners can lead to a lower grade.

Edges:

  • The edges of the card are inspected for any signs of wear, chipping, or imperfections.

Surface:

  • The surface of the card is scrutinized for scratches, creases, print defects, or other damage that may affect its appearance.

Overall Appearance:

  • Graders consider the overall aesthetic appeal of the card, including color vibrancy, clarity, and any other factors that may impact its visual appeal.

Grading Scale

  • PSA assigns a grade to each card on a scale from 1 to 10, with half-point increments. The grades are as follows:
    • Gem Mint (10)
    • Mint (9)
    • Near Mint-Mint (8)
    • Near Mint (7)
    • Excellent-Mint (6)
    • Excellent (5)
    • Very Good-Excellent (4)
    • Very Good (3)
    • Good (2)
    • Fair (1)
    • Poor (Poor)

Encapsulation

  • After grading, cards are encapsulated in tamper-evident holders with a label displaying the card's grade and certification number.
  • Encapsulation helps protect the card's condition and authenticity, providing assurance to buyers and sellers.

Return of Graded Cards

  • Once graded and encapsulated, the cards are returned to the submitter along with a certification letter detailing the card's grade and any additional information.

Conclusion

PSA employs a rigorous grading process to evaluate sports cards based on established criteria for centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall appearance. By providing accurate and consistent grades, PSA helps collectors and investors assess the value and authenticity of their cards with confidence.

Posted in Videos and tagged , , , , , , , ,