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Collector guide

Which Cards Are Worth Grading?

A conservative framework based on authenticity, condition, raw value, grade outcomes, demand and total cost.

Graded-card decisions combine authentication, condition, market demand, service cost and personal collecting goals. A numerical grade is useful information, but it does not replace inspection of the card or the economics of the transaction.

1. Confirm the exact card

Confirm the exact card should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

2. Screen for alteration

Screen for alteration should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

3. Estimate a realistic grade range

Estimate a realistic grade range should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

4. Compare raw and graded sales

Compare raw and graded sales should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

5. Calculate all costs

Calculate all costs should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

6. Include personal and registry value

Include personal and registry value should be evaluated in the context of the exact card, collecting goal, grading company, market and total cost. Record what is known, separate official information from seller claims, and use conservative outcomes when money is involved.

Important: This guide is educational. It does not predict a grade, guarantee authenticity, provide an appraisal or recommend cards as investments.

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