Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a “universal” grading system for all items; different types of collectibles have their own unique grading systems. For example, trading cards are graded from A1 to F1; stamps are graded from Poor to Superb.
Grade | Abbreviation | Description |
|---|---|---|
Mint | MT, M, 10 | An item in perfect condition, without any damage or imperfections. |
Very Fine | VF | Similar to mint. |
Near Mint | NM, 9 | An item with a very minor, hardly noticeable flaw. Sometimes described as “like new.” |
Near Fine | NF | Similar to near mint. |
Excellent | EX, 8 | An item considered above average, but with pronounced signs of wear. |
Fine | F | Similar to excellent. |
Very Good | VG, 7 | An item in average condition. |
Good | GD, G, 6 | An item that has clear indications of age, wear, and use. |
Fair | F | An item that is heavily worn. |
Poor | P, 5 | An item that is damaged or somehow incomplete. |
Degrees between grade levels are indicated with a + or . (For example, an item between Fine and Very Fine would be designated as F+.) Naturally, the definition of a Mint or Fair item differs by item type.
If you’re not sure what grade an item is, you may want to utilize a professional grading and authentication service. These services will examine your item, authenticate it (confirm that it’s the real deal), and give it a professional grade. Some services will even encase your item in a sealed plastic container or bag.
Collectible | Site | URL |
|---|---|---|
Autographs | ||
PSA/DNA | ||
Beanie Babies | Peggy Gallagher Enterprises, Inc. | |
Books | PKBooks | |
Coins | American Numismatic Association Certification Service | |
Numismatic Guaranty Corporation of America | ||
Professional Coin Grading Service | ||
Comic books | Comics Guaranty | |
Jewelry | International Gemological Institute | |
Sports cards | Professional Sports Authenticator | |
Sportscard Guaranty, LLC | ||
Stamps | American Philatelic Society | |
Professional Stamps Experts |
The cost of these authentication services varies wildly, depending on what you’re authenticating, the age or value of the item, and the extent of the service itself. For example, Professional Sports Authenticator rates range from $5 to $100 per sports card; Professional Stamps Experts rates range from $15 to $500 per stamp. Make sure that the item you’re selling is worth it before you go to this expenseand that you can recoup this expense in your auction.