PSA explained
What is PSA grading for Pokémon cards?
What PSA does, what the 1–10 scale means, what a slab includes and when grading may—or may not—be worthwhile.
PSA is a third-party authentication and grading company. It examines a submitted card, assigns a numerical grade when eligible and seals it in a labelled protective holder commonly called a slab.
What PSA evaluates
A grade considers factors such as centering, corners, edges and surface. Authentication is also part of the service: a card must be considered genuine before receiving a standard numerical grade.
What the PSA scale means
The scale runs from 1 to 10, with 10 representing Gem Mint under PSA’s published standard. A higher number generally indicates fewer visible defects, but collectors should read the company’s current definitions rather than rely on marketplace shorthand.
What the label and certification number do
The label identifies the card and grade. The certification number can be checked in PSA’s database, but matching a number alone does not prove a holder is genuine. Compare the card, label and holder as a whole.
When grading can make sense
- The card is authentic and in strong condition
- The likely value increase exceeds fees, shipping and risk
- A graded copy is easier to sell in the relevant market
- Authentication or long-term protection matters to you
When leaving it raw may be better
Grading is not automatically profitable. Low-value cards, uncertain authenticity, visible damage or a market that prefers binder copies can make the cost difficult to justify. Personal cards can also be more enjoyable outside a slab.
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