Can I Grade Sports Cards Myself?

By Eliud Alano September 14, 2023 05:09

Grading sports cards has become an essential aspect of the hobby, as collectors strive to determine the condition and value of their prized possessions. While third-party grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC, and CSG dominate the market, some collectors wonder if they can grade the cards themselves. So, can you grade sports cards yourself?

The answer is yes, you can engage in self-grading your own cards. Self-grading allows you to have a preliminary idea of the card's condition and potential grade before sending it to a professional grading company. This can be beneficial in identifying any discrepancies when the graded cards are returned.

To grade sports cards yourself, it is important to understand the criteria used by grading companies. This includes factors such as surface condition, corner wear, and edge wear. By using a jeweler's loupe, a ruler, and direct lighting, you can thoroughly examine the card and evaluate its condition. The loupe will help you detect any discoloring, alterations, or imperfections that may affect the grade.

It is crucial to approach self-grading objectively, leaving emotions and financial attachment aside. This allows for a more accurate assessment of the card's condition. By recording the results of your self-grading, you can compare them to the grade assigned by a professional grading company and identify any discrepancies.

However, it's important to note that self-grading is not a substitute for professional grading. Third-party grading companies have specialized equipment, expertise, and standardized grading scales that ensure consistency and accuracy. They also provide authentication services, which can significantly increase the value and marketability of the card.

PSA is regarded as the top choice among collectors, despite its higher grading cost of $100 per card. PSA has a strong market presence, and their graded cards tend to hold their value well. BGS, on the other hand, is considered to be falling behind and not making significant advances in their business. They are known for their subgrades and autograph grading but have a higher grading cost compared to PSA.

In conclusion, while self-grading can provide a preliminary assessment of a sports card's condition, it is not a substitute for professional grading. It is important to understand the criteria used by grading companies and approach self-grading objectively. Professional grading companies like PSA offer expertise, authentication services, and standardized grading scales that ensure accuracy and consistency. Ultimately, the choice to self-grade or use a professional grading service depends on personal preferences and the value of the cards in question.