How to Get Pokemon Cards Graded, How Much is My Pokemon Card Worth?
by C Hariharan
Updated Feb 18, 2023
What Is A Pokemon TCG?
Pokemon TCG or Pokemon Trading Card Game is a collectible card game that is based on the popular video game and anime franchise, Pokemon. The game was first introduced in Japan in 1996 and was later launched in North America in 1998.
The objective of the game is to collect and use Pokemon cards to battle against other players. Each player has a deck of 60 cards that they use to create a strategy and defeat their opponent. The game has evolved over the years, and new sets of cards are released regularly.
Each card in the game represents a Pokemon, and they come in different types, including fire, water, grass, electric, psychic, and more. Cards also have different levels, attacks, and special abilities, which can be used during battles.
The game is played in turns, where each player draws a card from their deck, plays Pokemon cards onto the field, and attacks their opponent's Pokemon. The game ends when a player has defeated all of their opponent's Pokemon, or when the opponent runs out of cards in their deck.
The game has various modes, including Single-player, Multiplayer, and Online Play. The single-player mode allows players to battle against computer-controlled opponents, while the multiplayer mode enables players to compete against each other in-person or online.
Pokemon TCG is not only a game but also a collectible hobby, where players can collect different Pokemon cards and build their own unique decks. The game's popularity has also led to various competitions and tournaments worldwide, where players can showcase their skills and win prizes.
Overall, Pokemon TCG is an enjoyable and engaging game that allows players to immerse themselves in the world of Pokemon and compete against other players. It is a game that is easy to learn but challenging to master, making it a favorite among both casual and competitive gamers.
How To Get Pokemon Cards Graded?
Collecting Pokemon cards can be a fun and exciting hobby, but it can also be a lucrative investment. To ensure the value of your cards is preserved, getting them graded is an important process for collectors. The grading process can be very strict and rigorous, however, and cards that do not get high marks are essentially worthless. This makes grading cards high-risk high reward, as cards that get 9s or 10s have great value.
The first step in getting a Pokemon card graded is to choose a reputable grading company. The three best companies to use when getting Pokemon cards graded are PSA, Beckett, and CGC. These are all trusted grading companies that have decades of experience. The hierarchy of them varies from person to person, but PSA is usually the standard. However, a Beckett Gem Mint 10 usually has a higher ceiling than a PSA 10. CGC may not be as common as the other two but still holds great credibility in the collector scene. In general, all three services are great choices that come down to collector preference and price.
Once you have chosen a grading company, the next step is to carefully examine your card. Card condition is a key factor in the grading process, so it is important to avoid scratches, bends, and color fading. Other factors are usually outside the control of the collector, like the focus and positioning of the card. Even a card that had minor misprints can bring a Pokemon TCG card grade from 10 to 9. It is also important to ensure that the card is not altered in any way, as this can significantly reduce its value.
After you have examined your card, the next step is to fill out the submission form provided by the grading company. This will typically include your personal information, the card's details, and the grading tier you wish to use. The grading tier will depend on the turnaround time you require, as well as the level of service you want. For example, PSA offers several tiers, ranging from Economy to Super Express. The Economy tier is the most cost-effective option, but it also has the longest turnaround time, while the Super Express tier is the most expensive but has the quickest turnaround time.
Once you have filled out the submission form and prepared your card for grading, you will need to send it to the grading company. It is important to package your card carefully to avoid any damage during shipping. Some grading companies offer insurance for your card during shipping, which can provide peace of mind in case anything happens to it.
After the grading company receives your card, it will go through a rigorous grading process. This typically involves a team of experts examining the card under a microscope and evaluating it based on its condition, authenticity, and rarity. The grading process can take several weeks, depending on the grading tier you chose.
When your card has been graded, the grading company will send you a report detailing its grade, as well as any other information they have about the card. This report will be an important document for collectors, as it can help to establish the value and rarity of the card.
How Much Is My Pokemon Card Worth?
The value of a Pokemon card depends on several factors, including its rarity, condition, and demand. Some cards are worth a significant amount of money, while others are worth very little. There are also special types of cards, like the aforementioned special events that sometimes award cards to tournament winners. For example, one of the most coveted cards, the Trophy Pikachu Trainer Card, was only given out to competition winners in Japan and is so rare that it is considered priceless due to the lack of sellers. And a Pikachu Illustrator card, awarded for a Pokemon award competition, allegedly sold for a cool $90,000 USD.
How to Find Out Pokemon Card Values?
If you have a collection of Pokemon cards, you may be wondering how much they are worth. The value of a Pokemon card can vary depending on several factors, including the card's rarity, condition, and age. Here are some tips on how to determine the value of your Pokemon cards.
Step 1: Identify the Card
The first step in determining the value of your Pokemon card is to identify the card correctly. The Pokemon Trading Card Game has been around for over 20 years, and there are thousands of cards. Make sure you have the correct card by checking the card number, set, and artwork.
Step 2: Check the Rarity
The rarity of a Pokemon card is one of the most significant factors in determining its value. Cards can be common, uncommon, rare, or ultra-rare. You can determine the rarity of a card by looking for a symbol on the card, usually located in the bottom right corner. A circle symbol means common, a diamond symbol means uncommon, a star symbol means rare, and a star symbol with a "shiny" background means ultra-rare.
Step 3: Evaluate the Condition
The condition of the card is also a crucial factor in determining its value. Cards in pristine condition can be worth significantly more than cards that are heavily played or damaged. Look for signs of wear, including scratches, bends, creases, and fading. Cards in near-mint or mint condition are worth the most.
Step 4: Research Prices
Once you have identified the card's rarity and condition, you can research the card's value. There are several online price guides and marketplaces where you can check the current value of your card. Websites like eBay, TCGplayer, and TrollandToad are great resources for checking prices.
Step 5: Get the Card Graded
If you have a valuable card, you may want to consider getting it graded by a professional grading company. Grading a card involves evaluating the card's condition and giving it a grade from 1 to 10. Graded cards are worth significantly more than ungraded cards. Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) is one of the most reputable grading companies.
In conclusion, the value of a Pokemon card is determined by several factors, including rarity, condition, and age. By following these steps, you can determine the value of your Pokemon cards and ensure that you get a fair price if you decide to sell them.
How To Get Pokemon Cards Graded - FAQs
A rarity in Pokemon cards is determined by several factors, such as the set, the card number, and the symbol at the bottom right corner of the card. Some sets are more challenging to find than others, and cards with a lower number or a star symbol are typically more valuable.
Protecting your Pokemon cards from damage is essential to maintain their value. One way to do this is by using card sleeves and top-loaders to prevent scratches and bending. Storing cards in a dry, cool place away from sunlight and moisture is also crucial.
Yes, you can still play with your graded Pokemon cards, but it's essential to use card sleeves and playmats to avoid damage. Graded cards are primarily meant for collecting and preserving their value, but they can also be used for gameplay.
Holographic Pokemon cards have a shiny or foil effect that makes them stand out from non-holographic cards. They are usually more valuable and sought after by collectors.
If you suspect that you have a counterfeit Pokemon card, the best thing to do is to compare it to a genuine card of the same type. Look for differences in the card's color, font, and overall quality. You can also contact a professional appraiser or a grading company to authenticate the card.