How To Grade Your Magic: The Gathering Cards
So, you've got some valuable Magic: The Gathering cards and you're wondering what to do next. You've heard about grading before but as a newer player and collector, you're not sure if thats the right path to take. Not to worry! Let's go over when it is a good time to get your cards graded and how to get them graded if you decide that is the right path.
When to Grade Your Magic: The Gathering Cards
Before we get into how to get your Magic cards graded, first we should go over why you would want to get your Magic cards graded in the first place. Here are some general reasons why an individual might consider grading their Magic: The Gathering cards:
Card Condition: Cards in excellent condition can fetch a higher price, so it's worth grading them to determine their exact condition. Additionally, grading cards can protect the current condition of the card.
When the card is rare or valuable: High-value cards, especially those from older sets, are worth grading to ensure their authenticity and condition.
When you plan to sell or trade the card: Grading can give potential buyers or traders confidence in the card's authenticity and condition.
When you want to protect the card: Grading a card can provide it with extra protection, such as a plastic case or sleeve, that can help preserve its condition over time.
Ultimately, the decision to grade your Magic cards depends on your individual goals and preferences. If you're unsure whether to grade a card, you can always consult with a professional grading service or other experienced collectors for advice.
How to Grade Your Magic: The Gathering Cards
Once you’ve made the decision that you would like to go ahead and grade your Magic: The Gathering cards, you will then be presented with a new challenge of figuring out how to grade your Magic cards. To get your Magic cards graded, you can follow these steps:
Choose a grading company: There are several companies that offer card grading services, including Premier Card Grading, Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and Certified Guaranty Company (CGC). Research each company to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Prepare your cards: Before sending your cards for grading, make sure they are clean and free from any debris or contaminants that could affect the grading process. You may also want to sleeve your cards to protect them during shipping.
Complete the submission form: Each grading company has its own submission form that you will need to fill out. Make sure to include accurate information about the cards you are submitting, including the set, card name, and any special features or attributes.
Choose a grading level: Most grading companies offer different levels of grading, which can include economy, standard, express, and premium options. Choose the grading level that best fits your budget and timeline.
Send your cards: Once you have completed the submission form and selected a grading level, package your cards securely and send them to the grading company's address. Make sure to include the submission form and any payment required.
Wait for the results: The grading company will evaluate your cards and provide you with a graded card and a certificate of authenticity. The turnaround time can vary depending on the grading level you chose and the current volume of submissions.
Overall, getting your Magic cards graded can help increase their value and protect them from damage. Make sure to do your research and choose a reputable grading company to ensure a smooth and reliable process.
Ready to get your Magic: The Gathering cards graded? Premier Card Grading offers amazing prices with fast turnaround times. Plus with a team that has over 30 years of experience in the trading card industry, they are a great option for when you've just started with grading. Head to PremierCardGrading.com today and start your submission!
