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card condition

Trading cards are generally graded and priced by using a variety of factors. Some factors include the placement of the images in the center of the card, perfection in the corners, shine or gloss on the card, and the occurrence of any imperfections.

Minor imperfections include slightly worn corners, ripped, torn or worn edges, marks left over from printing, and scratches on the face of the card.

Major imperfections can include severe corner wear, stains from wax, rubber-band marks, fading from sunlight, mis-cuts, creases, tape marks or glue, thumbtack holes, writing, and heavy scratches.

You can use the various grading scores below as a basis for determining the value of your cards:

Gem Mint (Gem MT): A virtually "flawless" card with sharp focus, four sharp corners, free of stains, no breaks in surface gloss, no print or refractor lines, and no visible wear. A slight print spot visible under close scrutiny is allowable if it does not detract from the aesthetics of the card. Most Gem MT cards are usually valued at 200% or better than Near Mint price.

Mint (MT): Four sharp corners, no imperfections or signs of wear. Cards straight out of the pack are not always considered Mint, they must still be reviewed for any imperfections. Most MT cards are usually valued at 100% or better than Near Mint price.

Near Mint (NM): A near-perfect card with perhaps one minor imperfection, such as one blunt corner. No stains or scratches on face and no visible wear. Most NM cards are the standard for which other grades are usually gauged.

Excellent-Mint (EX-MT): A card with only two or three minor imperfections (see above). Must have original gloss. EX-MT cards are usually valued at 75%-90% of Near Mint price.

Excellent (EX): A card with a few minor imperfections. Some original gloss is lost and the edges show moderate wear, as well as all four corners. EX cards are usually valued at 50% or more of the Near Mint price.

Very Good (VG): A card that shows obvious handling but may still be attractive despite wear and imperfections. A VG card may have a crease. Original gloss is most likely lost. VG cards are usually valued at 25%-35% of the Near Mint price.

Good (G), Fair (F), Poor (P): A very worn card with many major imperfections (see above for examples of major imperfections). Tears may be visible. G, F or P cards are usually valued at 5%-10% of the Near Mint price.

card condition

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