Should You Grade Your Hockey Card?
This guide helps Hockey collectors determine when it's worth grading their cards based on value, condition, and player popularity. Discover key insights and ROI examples specific to the Hockey card market.
Grading Logic
- •High-value rookie cards from top players like Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews often yield significant returns when graded.
- •Vintage Hockey cards, especially from the 1970s and 1980s, can see a dramatic increase in value when graded in high condition.
- •Limited edition or autographed cards tend to command higher prices when graded, making them prime candidates for grading.
- •Cards in pristine condition (PSA 10) can see multiple times their raw value, particularly for sought-after players.
- •High-demand cards from recent championship-winning teams can also be worth grading due to collector interest.
Key Characteristics
Player Popularity
The demand for specific players can significantly impact the value of graded cards.
Card Condition
The grading scale emphasizes the importance of card condition, especially for high-value cards.
Rarity and Era
Older and rarer cards often appreciate more when graded, reflecting their historical value.
Market Trends
Understanding current market trends can guide your decision on which cards to grade.
When to Grade
- ✓Grade if you have a rookie card of a player who has recently gained popularity or had a breakout season.
- ✓Consider grading vintage cards from the 80s or earlier that are in excellent condition.
- ✓Grade limited edition or autographed cards that could fetch a premium in the market.
- ✓If your card is part of a set that is gaining collector interest, it may be wise to grade.
- ✓Grade cards that are already in high demand due to recent events or milestones in the player's career.
When to Skip
- ✗Do not grade common cards that are widely available and have little collector interest.
- ✗Skip grading lower-tier player cards that lack significant market demand.
- ✗Avoid grading cards that exhibit noticeable wear or damage, as they won't yield a return.
- ✗If the grading fees exceed the potential increase in value, it's best to skip grading.
ROI Examples
| Card | Raw | PSA 9 | PSA 10 | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2015-16 Connor McDavid Young Guns #201 This card is a highly sought-after rookie and can yield significant returns when graded. | $100 | $400 | $1,200 | strong |
2016-17 Auston Matthews Young Guns #201 While this card has potential, the ROI is marginal due to its lower raw value. | $30 | $80 | $200 | moderate |
2006-07 Sidney Crosby MVP #1 The low raw value makes grading this card not worth the investment. | $5 | $15 | $40 | skip |
Market Insight
The Hockey card market has seen a resurgence in interest, particularly for rookie cards and vintage collections. Grading can significantly impact the value of sought-after cards, especially as collectors become more discerning about condition and authenticity.