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. Factory defects
Factory defects 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. Chrome and foil surfaces
Chrome and foil surfaces 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. Serial-numbered parallels
Serial-numbered parallels 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. Autographs and patches
Autographs and patches 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. Population growth
Population growth 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. High-grade premium
High-grade premium 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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