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. Set and card number
Set and 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.
2. Edition and language
Edition and language 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. Holo scratching
Holo scratching 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. Edge whitening
Edge whitening 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. Print lines
Print lines 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. Counterfeit checks
Counterfeit checks 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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