Understanding PSA Grading: Scale, Costs, and Process

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is the world's largest and most trusted card grading service. Understanding how PSA grading works is essential for any serious collector or investor.

What Is PSA?

Founded in 1991, PSA is a division of Collectors Universe. They've graded over 50 million cards and collectibles, making them the industry standard for authentication and grading.

The PSA Grading Scale

PSA uses a 1-10 scale with half-point grades at certain levels:

Grade	Name	Description
PSA 10	Gem Mint	Virtually perfect. Sharp corners, 55/45 centering or better on front, 75/25 on back.
PSA 9	Mint	One minor flaw. 60/40 centering on front, 90/10 on back.
PSA 8	Near Mint-Mint	Minor flaws visible on close inspection. 65/35 centering.
PSA 7	Near Mint	Slight wear on corners/edges. 70/30 centering.
PSA 6	Excellent-Mint	Visible wear. 75/25 centering.
PSA 5	Excellent	Noticeable wear. 80/20 centering.
PSA 4	Very Good-Excellent	Moderate wear throughout. 85/15 centering.
PSA 3	Very Good	Extensive wear. 90/10 centering.
PSA 2	Good	Heavy wear, possible creases.
PSA 1	Poor	Heavily worn, major defects.

PSA Centering Requirements

Centering is expressed as a ratio (e.g., 60/40) indicating the difference in border width:

• PSA 10: 55/45 or better (front), 75/25 or better (back)
• PSA 9: 60/40 or better (front), 90/10 or better (back)
• PSA 8: 65/35 or better (front)
• PSA 7: 70/30 or better (front)

PSA Grading Costs (2024)

PSA offers several service levels with different turnaround times:

Service Level	Price	Turnaround
Value	$25/card	65 business days
Regular	$50/card	20 business days
Express	$100/card	10 business days
Super Express	$150/card	5 business days

* Prices subject to change. Check PSA website for current pricing.

The PSA Grading Process

1. Create Account: Register at psacard.com
2. Submit Order: Fill out submission form, select service level
3. Ship Cards: Send cards with completed paperwork
4. Research: PSA authenticates and researches each card
5. Grading: Trained graders evaluate condition
6. Encapsulation: Cards are sealed in tamper-evident holders
7. Return: Graded cards shipped back to you

PSA Population Reports

PSA maintains a database called the "Population Report" (pop report) that shows how many cards of each type have received each grade. This data is valuable for:

• Understanding rarity of high grades
• Researching before buying graded cards
• Estimating value based on population

PSA vs Other Graders

PSA typically commands higher prices than BGS, CGC, or SGC due to:

• Larger market presence and recognition
• Established trust over 30+ years
• Higher liquidity on secondary market

Tips for PSA Submissions

• Pre-grade first: Only submit cards likely to grade well
• Use penny sleeves: Protect cards during shipping
• Declare accurate values: For insurance purposes
• Join collectors clubs: For submission discounts
• Track your order: Use PSA's online tracking system