How to Submit Pokémon Cards for PSA Grading: A Guide to Maximizing Your Grade
Submitting Pokémon cards for PSA grading can significantly increase their value—if done right. Whether you're aiming for resale or building a top-tier collection, understanding PSA’s requirements and how to prepare your cards is key.
Why PSA Grading Matters
PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is the most reputable grading authority for trading cards, using a 10-point scale to assess condition. A PSA 10 “Gem Mint” card can be worth exponentially more than a lower-graded one.
Key PSA Grading Factors
1. Centering
The card image should be centered relative to the borders.
- Front centering must fall between 55/45 and 60/40 for a PSA 10.
- Back centering tolerance is slightly looser—up to 75/25.
2. Corners
All four corners must be sharp with no whitening, bends, or frays.
3. Edges
Check for clean, smooth edges without nicks or chipping.
4. Surface
Look out for scratches, print lines, indentations, or stains. Original gloss should be intact.
How to Maximize Your Card’s Grade
- Handle with Care: Use clean, dry hands or gloves. Avoid touching the card surfaces.
- Protective Storage: Store in penny sleeves, semi-rigid card holders (e.g. Card Savers), and top loaders.
- Surface Cleaning: Gently use a microfiber cloth to remove specks or dust.
- Lighting and Magnification: Use a strong LED lamp and 10x magnifier to inspect for flaws.
- Get a Second Opinion: Ask experienced collectors or use grading prep services if unsure.
Tools to Check Centering Like a Pro
Mobile Apps & Tools
- GemRate's Centering Tool (web-based): Upload an image, and it calculates centering ratios.
- Card Grading Assistant (iOS/Android): Uses AI to estimate centering and surface issues.
- Center Stage App: While primarily for pricing, it includes a centering grid for visual checks.
- Photoshop or GIMP: Overlay guides to measure borders digitally.
- Physical Centering Rulers: Many collectors swear by them for analog accuracy.
While none of these are officially endorsed by PSA, they can drastically improve your pre-submission accuracy.
Final Thoughts
A high PSA grade isn’t just about luck—it’s about preparation. Centering, surface, and handling are fully within your control. Use available tools to evaluate your cards thoroughly before submitting.By understanding what PSA looks for and preparing strategically, you boost your chances of scoring that coveted PSA 10.
References
CardGradingAssistant (2024) Card Grading Assistant Mobile App. Available at: https://www.cardgradingassistant.com (Accessed: 28 April 2025).Center Stage (2024) Center Stage - Sports Card Scanner App. Available at: https://www.centerstagehq.com (Accessed: 28 April 2025).GemRate (2024) GemRate Centering Tool. Available at: https://www.gemrate.com/tools/centering (Accessed: 28 April 2025).Professional Sports Authenticator (2025) Grading Standards. Available at: https://www.psacard.com/grades (Accessed: 28 April 2025).The Verge (2025) ‘PSA pauses international submissions due to tariff issues’, The Verge, 15 April. Available at: https://www.theverge.com/news/643117/psa-pausing-submissions-outside-us-tariffs (Accessed: 28 April 2025).
Keep your collection safe — we’ve got you covered at Game of Bricks.
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