Pokemon card grading is a professional authentication and condition assessment service where third-party companies evaluate cards on a 1-10 scale and encapsulate them in protective slabs. The process involves sending collectible cards to organizations for encapsulation in sealed cases with grading labels. CCC Grading
Key Facts:
- Cards are graded from 1 (Poor) to 10 (Gem Mint/Perfect)
- TAG Grading uses patented AI technology for unrivaled accuracy TAG Grading
- Graded cards typically increase 2-10x in value
- TAG's bulk pricing averages $15 per card.
- Professional grading protects and authenticates your investment
What is Pokemon Card Grading?
Pokemon card grading transforms your raw cards into certified, protected collectibles with verified conditions and authenticity. Recent surveys show 53% of occasional collectors own at least one graded card, while 94% of confirmed collectors have graded cards in their collection. CCC Grading
The grading process evaluates four critical aspects:
- Centering: Card image alignment
- Corners: Sharpness and wear
- Edges: Smoothness and damage
- Surface: Scratches, print quality, whitening
How TAG Grading Revolutionizes Card Authentication
TAG Grading stands apart as the industry's first AI-powered grading service. Unlike PSA or Beckett, TAG uses AI to grade cards, not people. This technological approach eliminates human bias and ensures consistent results across submissions.
TAG's Three-Tier Service System
| Service Level | Price Range | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAG V | $8-12/card | Authentication only, no grade | Verifying authenticity |
| TAG X | $12-15/card | 1-10 grade + DIG Report | Standard grading needs |
| TAG S | $24-30/card | 1000-point score + ranking | High-value cards |
TAG has already graded over 100,000 cards, including over 60,000 Pokémon cards. Rare Candy
Step-by-Step Grading Process
1. Preparation Phase
- Select cards worth grading (typically $50+ raw value)
- Inspect for damage under bright light
- Place in penny sleeves and semi-rigid holders
2. Submission Process
- Create online account with grading company
- Choose service tier based on value/urgency
- Complete submission form with card details
- Package securely for shipping
3. Professional Evaluation
TAG uses Photometric Stereoscopic Imaging for unparalleled grading accuracy. TAG Grading The AI system analyzes thousands of data points per card.
4. Encapsulation & Return
Cards receive UV-resistant acrylic slabs with:
- Certification number
- Grade designation
- QR code (TAG exclusive)
- Population report data
TAG vs Traditional Grading Companies
| Feature | TAG | PSA | BGS | CGC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grading Method | AI-powered | Human experts | Human + tools | Human experts |
| Turnaround | 30-45 days | 60-120 days | 45-90 days | 20-30 days |
| Base Price | $12-15 | $19-30 | $18-30 | $15-25 |
| Sub-grades | Yes (digital) | No | Yes | Yes |
| Market Premium | Growing | Highest | High | Moderate |
Digital Innovation: TAG's DIG Reports
Every TAG graded card includes a detailed Digital Imaging & Grading Report accessible by scanning the QR code on the slab. TAG Grading This revolutionary feature provides:
✓ High-resolution defect images
✓ Precise scoring breakdowns
✓ Population data
✓ Leaderboard rankings
✓ Card chronology
Is Pokemon Card Grading Worth It?
Grade When You Have:
- Vintage cards (Base Set, early expansions)
- Cards worth $50+ raw
- Mint condition pulls from packs
- Investment-grade collectibles
Skip Grading For:
- Damaged or heavily played cards
- Common cards under $20 value
- Cards grading below PSA 7 potential
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does TAG grading cost compared to PSA?
TAG's bulk 20-card option averages $15 per card, while PSA economy service starts at $19-30 per card, making TAG 20-50% more affordable.
What Pokemon cards can TAG grade?
TAG accepts standard-sized Pokemon TCG cards (2.5 x 3.5 inches) in English, Japanese, and Chinese languages. Taggrading They currently don't accept miscuts, test prints, or altered cards.
How accurate is TAG's AI grading system?
TAG's multi-patented technological system scores on a precise 1000-point scale using Photometric Stereoscopic Imaging TAG Grading, providing consistency impossible with human grading.
Can TAG-graded cards be sold like PSA cards?
Yes, TAG-graded cards are increasingly accepted in the marketplace. Price trends show high-grade TAG cards beginning to rival PSA and CGC prices, especially for rare Pokémon cards. PKMhobby
What's included with TAG grading service?
All TAG services include authentication, encapsulation, card ID inscription, population report registration, HD photo downloads, and Proof anti-counterfeit technology. TAG Grading
How long does TAG grading take?
TAG estimates 30 to 45 days for bulk submissions, which is faster than PSA's current 60-120 day economy turnaround.
Does TAG offer rush grading services?
TAG currently focuses on bulk and standard submissions. For urgent grading needs, consider their TAG X service tier which offers optimized processing times.