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. Year and set
Year and set 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. Subject or character
Subject or character 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. Card number
Card number 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. Variation or parallel
Variation or parallel 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. Grade
Grade 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. Certification number
Certification number 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.
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