Understanding Which Category Pokemon Cards Belong to on CGC
In the world of collectible trading cards, Pokemon Cards have held a special place in the hearts of fans, collectors, and investors for decades. With their increasing value and popularity, proper grading of these cards has become essential for verifying authenticity, quality, and worth. One popular grading service, Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), offers a platform for assessing card quality. However, a common question arises: Which category do Pokemon Cards belong to on CGC? This guide will walk you through the categories, grading standards, and how to navigate the CGC platform for Pokemon Cards.
What is CGC?
Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) is a reputable grading organization known for its rigorous standards in evaluating collectible items, including comic books, coins, and trading cards. Established in 2000, CGC initially focused on comic book grading but later expanded to other collectibles, providing collectors with certified, graded items for security and investment purposes. Understanding CGC’s grading process can help collectors make informed decisions and increase the value of their Pokemon Cards.
Why Pokemon Cards Need Proper Grading
Pokemon Cards have skyrocketed in value, and graded cards typically fetch a higher price than ungraded ones. Grading provides transparency, ensuring buyers and sellers know the card’s condition and worth. CGC is particularly valued for its detailed and consistent grading standards. But with various categories and classifications, finding the correct one for Pokemon Cards on CGC can be a little tricky.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Right Category for Pokemon Cards on CGC
For those who want to submit Pokemon Cards to CGC for grading, understanding the submission process and category selection is key. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Create a CGC Account
To get started with submitting Pokemon Cards, you’ll need a CGC account. Simply go to the CGC website, click on the “Register” option, and follow the steps to create an account.
- Select the Trading Card Division
Once logged in, navigate to the Trading Card division. CGC categorizes Pokemon Cards under “Trading Cards” rather than “Comic Books” or other collectibles. By selecting the Trading Card division, you’ll access options specific to cards like Pokemon and other TCG (Trading Card Game) items.
- Choose the Pokemon Cards Category
Within the Trading Card division, Pokemon Cards are further classified by card type, set, and rarity. Depending on your card’s attributes, you might find it under “Standard Pokemon Cards,” “First Edition,” or “Promo Cards.” CGC also categorizes Pokemon Cards based on age and region, such as Japanese vs. English editions.
Understanding the CGC Grading Scale for Pokemon Cards
Once you’ve selected the correct category, CGC uses a precise grading scale for Pokemon Cards that ranges from 1 (Poor) to 10 (Gem Mint). Each grade reflects the card’s condition, with sub-grades assessing centering, surface, corners, and edges. Here’s a quick breakdown of key grades:
- Gem Mint (10): Perfect quality, with flawless edges, corners, and centering.
- Mint (9): Slight imperfections but still in near-perfect condition.
- Near Mint (8): Minor flaws, possibly light scratching or slight edge wear.
- Very Good to Excellent (4-7): Noticeable wear, but still a respectable condition for older or rare cards.
- Poor to Fair (1-3): Significant wear, with heavy scratches, creases, or bends.
CGC Labels and Authentication for Pokemon Cards
After grading, each Pokemon Card is encased in a tamper-proof case with a CGC label. The label includes:
- Grade: The overall rating (1-10) based on condition.
- Sub-Grades: Optional details on centering, corners, edges, and surface.
- QR Code: A scannable code that links to the card’s online entry for additional verification.
This process adds credibility to the card, assuring buyers of its authenticity and making it easier to sell at a premium price.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Submitting Pokemon Cards to CGC
Submitting Pokemon Cards to CGC can sometimes involve hurdles. Here are some common issues and solutions:
Issue 1: Incorrect Category Selection
If the wrong category is selected, CGC may delay or reject your submission. Double-check that your card is in the right category under Trading Cards. If you’re unsure, CGC’s customer service can help guide you to the correct option.
Issue 2: Misunderstanding Grading Standards
CGC’s grading criteria can be strict, and slight imperfections might result in lower grades than expected. It’s essential to have realistic expectations and review CGC’s grading examples online to understand their standards for Pokemon Cards.
Issue 3: Incomplete Documentation
Missing documents or incorrect details during the submission process can also cause delays. Ensure all fields in the submission form are filled out accurately, including the card’s series, year, and condition details.
Additionally, CGC may return cards without grading if the card does not meet their submission standards, so be sure to review their guidelines before submitting any rare or valuable Pokemon Cards.
Advantages of Grading Pokemon Cards with CGC
Why go through CGC for your Pokemon Cards? Here are some key advantages:
- Enhanced Value: Graded cards generally sell for more than ungraded ones.
- Market Trust: CGC has established a strong reputation, increasing buyer confidence in graded cards.
- Protection: The tamper-proof cases provide long-term protection against damage.
- Verification: A CGC grade is a universally recognized marker of quality.
Comparison with Other Grading Services
While CGC is widely trusted, other grading companies, like PSA and Beckett, also offer Pokemon Card grading. CGC has the advantage of detailed sub-grades, which is a unique feature that many collectors value. Each grading service has its pros and cons, so it’s worth exploring these options depending on your needs. For a comprehensive comparison, you may refer to a grading comparison guide to make the best decision.
Conclusion: CGC Categories for Pokemon Cards
Submitting Pokemon Cards to CGC for grading can be an excellent way to protect, authenticate, and enhance the value of your collection. By following the steps in this guide and understanding the grading standards, you can confidently navigate the submission process and ensure that your cards are correctly categorized and graded. Whether you’re a collector or looking to sell, grading Pokemon Cards with CGC adds substantial value and peace of mind.
Ready to submit your Pokemon Cards? Begin by creating a CGC account and exploring their Trading Card division to take the first step in protecting and validating your valuable collection.
This article is in the category Reviews and created by GameMasterHub Team