Rediscovered your childhood Pokémon collection? Or maybe you’re a parent with a child who’s fallen in love with the same Pokémon craze you remember? Regardless of how these cards found their way into your hands, you’ve probably wondered if any of them are worth protecting—or better yet, grading.
In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to take to understand the value of your Pokémon cards, what grading entails, and how you can get started.
What Are Your Cards Worth?
This is one of the most common questions we hear from both seasoned and new collectors alike. What makes a Pokémon card valuable, and how can you find out its potential worth?
To get an idea, you’ll need to do a bit of homework, but it’s worth the effort. Start with tools like eBay’s sold listings or CardMarket to check the raw, ungraded value of your card. You can search for a card by using its card number (found on the bottom right), the card name, and the set name, if known. Once you find your card, compare its condition with others listed.
Assessing a card’s condition is key—take note of any imperfections like scratches, scuffs, or centering issues. Ideally, you’ll want to find a card in similar condition to get a better estimate of its ungraded value.
After you’ve identified which cards might be worth a bit more, it’s time to decide which ones deserve an extra layer of protection through grading.
Why Grade Your Pokémon Cards?
Grading isn’t just about preservation—it’s about authentication, enhancing value, and creating a more collectible item. When you grade a Pokémon card, you’re entrusting it to experts who evaluate its authenticity and condition, then encapsulate it in a protective case, or “slab.” This slab shields the card from dust, debris, and handling, and the certified label within confirms its details, authenticity, and grade.
A graded card holds value as a collectible in its own right. Many collectors proudly display their graded cards, showcasing the impressive condition and certified value. So, if you’re looking to protect, authenticate, or even resell your cards, grading is an excellent choice.
How to Grade Your Pokémon Cards
Now, let’s get to the core question—how do you get your Pokémon cards graded?
First, you’ll need to choose a grading company. While there are several options out there, the top reputable ones—PSA, Beckett, and CGC—are all based in the United States. This can present a few challenges for collectors outside the U.S., as grading directly involves costly shipping, insurance, and customs.
Fortunately, middleman services like Black Label Grading make it easier for collectors in the UK and EU to access these grading companies. We handle the logistics for you, so all you need to do is follow these simple steps:
- Visit orders.blacklabelgrading.com
Here, you can select the grading service that best fits your needs. - Choose Your Service and Make Payment
Whether you prefer PSA, Beckett, or CGC, we offer a range of options to suit your budget and preferences. - Securely Ship Your Cards
Send your cards to the PO Box provided, ensuring they’re packaged safely to prevent damage during transit.
Once your cards are on their way, we handle the rest—from liaising with the grading company to ensuring your cards are returned to you in pristine graded slabs. Black Label Grading makes the process of grading your Pokémon cards as smooth as possible, letting you protect your collection while adding to its potential value.
If you have any questions about grading or need help deciding which service is right for you, reach out to us at info@blacklabelgrading.com. We’re here to help you preserve the best of your collection!
