Trading card grading is the process of professionally evaluating a card’s condition and authenticity. Graded cards are sealed in protective holders and assigned a numerical grade, which helps collectors and buyers assess quality, value, and long-term collectability.
This guide explains how card grading works, what the major grading companies look for, and how grading impacts card value across modern and vintage sets.
Each section below covers a core grading concept and how it fits into the broader trading card ecosystem.