Grading Companies
The major third-party grading services that authenticate and grade sports cards.
PSA
Industry standard · Highest liquidity
Professional Sports Authenticator is the most recognized grading company with the highest resale premiums.
BGS / Beckett
Subgrades · Premium for 9.5/10
Beckett Grading Services offers subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface. Black Label 10s command huge premiums.
CGC
Growing acceptance · Good value
Originally known for comics, CGC has expanded into cards with competitive pricing and fast turnaround.
SGC
Vintage specialist · Fast turnaround
Preferred by vintage collectors for their expertise in pre-war and tobacco cards. Known for quick service.
Advanced Grading
AI-powered · Modern approach
Newer entrant using AI-assisted grading technology. Focus on transparency and consistency.
TAG
Image-based grading · Modern approach
The Authentication Group uses advanced imaging technology for consistent, transparent grading. Popular with modern card collectors.
Arena Club
Vault storage · Digital marketplace
Combines grading with secure vault storage and an integrated marketplace. Cards stay in the vault while you trade digitally.