Understanding Graded Pokémon Cards

Understanding Graded Pokémon Cards – What Every Collector Should Know

In the world of Pokémon card collecting, condition is everything. One tiny scratch or off-center print can dramatically change a card’s value. That’s where grading comes in. Graded Pokémon cards are assessed, certified, and encapsulated by professional companies—offering collectors confidence in both quality and authenticity.

At Major Sports Cards, we understand the importance of grading and how it shapes the collecting experience. Whether you're considering your first graded card or building an investment-grade collection, here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Graded Pokémon Card?

A graded Pokémon card has been evaluated by a third-party grading company—such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), or CGC (Certified Guaranty Company). These organizations assign a numerical score (typically from 1 to 10) based on the card’s condition and encapsulate it in a tamper-proof holder.

Why Grading Matters

Grading benefits collectors in several key ways:

• Establishes Authenticity: A graded card is verified to be genuine, eliminating concerns about counterfeits.
  
  

• Protects Condition: Encapsulation helps preserve the card's quality and prevents damage over time.
  
  

• Increases Market Value: Higher-graded cards often fetch significantly more in the resale market.
  
  

• Builds Trust with Buyers: If you ever choose to sell or trade, a graded card provides assurance to potential buyers.
  
  

How Cards Are Graded

Grading companies evaluate several factors before assigning a final score:

• Centering: How well-aligned the card’s design is within its borders
  
  

• Corners: Sharpness and wear
  
  

• Edges: Cleanliness and uniformity
  
  

• Surface: Free from scratches, print lines, or blemishes
  
  

Each category receives an internal score that contributes to the overall grade.

What Do the Grades Mean?

Here’s a simplified breakdown of PSA’s grading scale:

• Gem Mint 10 – Virtually perfect
  
  

• Mint 9 – Slight imperfections visible under close inspection
  
  

• Near Mint to Mint 8 – Minor flaws on surface or edges
  
  

• Below 8 – Increasingly noticeable wear or defects
  
  

Higher grades translate to higher market value—especially for rare or vintage cards.

Should You Grade Your Pokémon Cards?

Grading makes the most sense if your card:

• Is rare, vintage, or part of a limited set
  
  

• Appears to be in excellent or mint condition
  
  

• Has high resale or investment potential
  
  

At Major Sports Cards, we can help assess whether your card is worth submitting for grading. We're also happy to explain the process and connect you with reliable grading services.

Buy Graded Pokémon Cards with Confidence

We offer a selection of graded Pokémon cards for collectors who value security, authenticity, and long-term value. Whether you're searching for a PSA 10 Charizard or just getting started with your first slabbed card, Major Sports Cards has you covered.

All our graded cards are:

• Professionally authenticated
  
  

• Clearly labeled with condition and grading details
  
  

• Stored and shipped with the utmost care
  
  

Collect Smarter with Graded Pokémon Cards

Graded cards offer more than just a snapshot of condition—they give collectors peace of mind, lasting value, and a clear path for long-term collecting success. At Major Sports Cards, we’re here to help you navigate grading, choose the right cards, and build a collection you’ll be proud of for years to come.