PSA is the largest and most respected third-party authentication and grading company in the world for trading cards and memorabilia.
Authentication is the process of verifying the originality or genuineness of a trading card. Grading is assessing the quality and condition of a trading card using PSA’s 10-point grading scale. Grading can only take place after a trading card has been deemed authentic.
Whether vintage, modern or TCG, PSA authenticates and grades cards throughout the hobby. Learn more about our grading process, insightful content and collecting resources below.
Benefits of PSA Grading
Established Standards
PSA has established recognized and respected universal grading standard for trading card collectors.
Trading Card PSA Price Guide
PSA has established a PSA-graded card price guide that has enhanced stability in the marketplace for both collectors and dealers alike.
Security
PSA encapsulates every trading card in a tamper-evident, sonically sealed case. These attractive, hard plastic cases provide protection from pressure and most damage.
Set Registry
PSA has a Set Registry for card collectors and the possibilities are virtually endless in terms of creating interesting and fun trading card sets.
Value
PSA can help you get the most for your cards. Cards authenticated and graded by PSA achieve amazing prices at auction.
We’ve Got the Facts
It has never been easier to find information on your favorite PSA-graded trading cards. Discover expert narratives, collecting articles, pricing, populations and checklists all in one place with PSA CardFacts®.
Trading Card Authentication & Grading Process
Authentication
A series of PSA graders review your cards for authenticity. If genuine, PSA looks for evidence of doctoring, such as re-coloring or trimming.
Grading
If your cards pass authentication, PSA grades the condition of each card on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being best.
Encapsulation
PSA encapsulates each card in its own sonically sealed, tamper-evident case. The card’s grade and certification number are displayed on the PSA LightHouse™ label.