Should I Grade My Card?
A data-driven framework for deciding whether to submit to PSA — or sell raw.
The quick checklist
Grade if...
PSA 10 comp is 4× or more vs raw price
You assess the card as 9 or 10 condition
Centering is 60/40 or better both ways
Surface is clean — no scratches or print lines
The card has a liquid graded market
Break-even PSA 10% is below your estimate
Sell raw if...
PSA 10 premium is only 1.5–2× raw price
Card has visible surface issues or light scratches
Centering is questionable (off-center)
The card's raw market is strong and liquid
Grading cost represents > 30% of raw value
Break-even PSA 10% is above your honest estimate
The single most important question
What is my realistic break-even PSA 10 probability, and does my card actually have that high a chance of getting a 10?
If your honest answer is "no" or "I'm not sure," you should probably sell raw. If it's "yes, clearly," the math likely favors grading.
Run the actual numbers
The checklist above is a starting point. For a precise answer, use GradeYield to compute expected value, break-even thresholds, and a recommendation tailored to your specific card.