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Tag: PSA
Why Grading Pokémon Cards Is Worth It (And When It’s Not)
If you’ve pulled a shiny Charizard or rediscovered your childhood binder, you’re probably asking: is grading Pokémon cards worth it? In 2025, grading can dramatically boost a card’s value—but it also costs time and money.
In this guide, we’ll help you decide when grading makes sense, what it costs, and how to know if your card is grading-worthy or better left raw.
What Is Pokémon Card Grading?
Grading is the process of sending a card to a professional company like PSA, CGC, or Beckett, where it is:
- Authenticated
- Evaluated for condition (centering, edges, surface, corners)
- Sealed in a tamper-proof case
- Assigned a grade (1 to 10 scale)
A graded card offers:
- Market trust
- Preservation
- Potential resale premium