How to Get a PSA 10 Trading Card

Trading cards are back on the menu. There has been a resurgence in trading card popularity in the last few months. Head on over to your local supermarket and check the racks for a certain monster-catching trading card and you will see noticeable bear shelves. While long-standing collectors understand the value that certain rare cards can have, the new inductees to this frenzy should recognize that the slightest imperfection can devalue your card drastically. The value of your cards is directly tied to their PSA grade.

The PSA is the largest and most respected third-party authentication and grading company in the world for trading cards and memorabilia, according to their website. Cards being sold on eBay and other market places will typically include a PSA grading if they are authentic. The grades are based on a scale from 1 to 10.

According to the website, “A PSA Gem Mint 10 card is a virtually perfect card. Attributes include four perfectly sharp corners, sharp focus, and full original gloss. A PSA Gem Mint 10 card must be free of staining of any kind, but an allowance may be made for a slight printing imperfection if it doesn't impair the overall appeal of the card. The image must be centered on the card within a tolerance not to exceed approximately 55/45 to 60/40 percent on the front, and 75/25 percent on the reverse.” A 10 is not an easy thing to achieve. However, the difference in value between a 10 and a 9 can be in the hundreds. So, how can you ensure your card gets a 10? Follow this guide.

	When opening the card pack, do not hold it by the corners. Balance it on the flat of your hand, and gently open the wrapper. Wear gloves if necessary.
	Place the desired card in a brand new card sleeve. A poly-bag is ideal as they have a low static charge, and are impermeable. A poly-plastic sleeve can preserve the glossy varnish found on rare cards.
	Store the incased card in a box or container away from direct sunlight.
	Mail the card to the PSA, and hope for the best.

For an additional layer of protection, you can place the wrapped card in a hard plastic card case. The opening of the hard plastic case should be the opposite of the opening of the poly-plastic sleeve, so there is no chance for dust or particulate matter to enter into the case. Ultimately, even if you do everything perfectly, you may still end up with a 9 or lower score due to uncontrollable factors. The most you can do is be gentle and delicate with your cards and try your luck. Consult our guide on how to store trading cards for more information on the subject.

QQ Tip - Multi-layered packaging is key for preserving delicate and fragile items.