The Lowdown on SGC and PSA Grading
So, you've decided to dive into the world of card baseball collecting, huh? Welcome to the club! We know it can be a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry; we've got your back. Today, let's talk about why SGC and PSA Grading should be your go-to choices for authentication and grading as you kick off your collecting journey.
What is SGC Grading & PSA Grading?🏆
The big two of the trading card grading scene are SGC and PSA. Why are they so important? Well, they're the most trusted authentication and grading companies in the hobby. Their grades and authenticity checks are a stamp of approval, telling you that a card is unaltered, real, and the overall condition of your cards.
Fort Knox Protection for Your Cards
You've probably noticed how delicate cards can be, right? SGC and PSA understand that too. That's why their cases are like armor for your cards, providing top-notch protection against scratches, bends, and other everyday threats.
The Allure of Perfection
Ever dreamt of owning a card that's practically perfect? Well, PSA 10's are your golden ticket. It's the highest grade a card can get, and collectors go crazy for it. Getting a PSA 10 is like finding a rare sports card. PSA 10's sell at preium prices and they often sell for 2 to 10 times what a PSA 9 sells for.
Click for a list of Trading Card Grading Companies
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Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA):
Website: psacard.com
Sportscard Guaranty (SGC):
Website: sgccard.com
Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) - formerly CGS:
Website: cgccomics.com
Beckett Grading Services (BGS):
Website: beckett.com/grading
Other Companies
Human Grading Authority (HGA):
Website: hgagrading.com
Technical Authentication Grading (TAG):
Gem Mint Assurance (GMA):
Website: gmagrading.com
Trading Card Authority (TCA):
Website: tcagrading.com
Trading Card Grading (TCG):
Website: tcgrading.com
Total Grading Solutions (TGS):
Website: totalgradingsolutions.com
Radicards Grading (RG):
Website: radicardsgrading.com
Global Authority Grading (GAG):
Website: globalauthoritygrading.com
Card Grader Association (CGA):
Website: cardgraderassociation.com
UltraPro Grading (UPG):
Website: ultraprograding.com
World Class Grading (WCG):
Website: wcgrading.com
True Gem Grading (TGG):
Website: truegemgrading.com
Pristine Grading International (PGI):
Website: pgigrading.com
One Star Grading (OSG):
Website: onestargrading.com
Vivid Grading (VG):
Website: vividgrading.com
Lighthouse Grading (LHG):
Website: lighthousegrading.com
Sports Card Direct (SCD) Grading:
Website: scdgrading.com
Some grading companies listed above may no longer be in business as of Dec, 2023
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What about Beckett, CGC (CGS), and Others
The practice of grading has been integral to the hobby for over two decades. Beckett (BGS/BVG) once dominated the scene as a major player. However, the preferences of collectors and dealers have shifted towards PSA and SGC over the years.
In recent times, CGC, initially recognized for grading comic books, has entered the trading card grading space and gained notable momentum, thanks to their pricing model. While primarily associated with comic books, CGC's approach may eventually propel them to surpass SGC.
Several lesser-known companies such as HGA, GMA, and TAG exist, but their challenge lies in building the same level of trust and resale value as industry giants PSA and SGC, which tend to be the top choices for collectors and dealers.
So, new collectors, embrace the adventure! SGC and PSA Grading are your trusty companions on this journey. They help you understand the value of your cards, keep them safe, and elevate your collection to new heights. Happy collecting, and may your card discoveries be epic! 🚀
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