Should You Grade Your Hockey Card?
This guide helps Hockey card collectors determine if grading their cards is worth the investment. Learn how to maximize your potential return on investment.
Grading Logic
- •High-value rookie cards from top players like Connor McDavid or Sidney Crosby should be graded to maximize their resale value.
- •Cards in mint condition from the 1980s and 1990s, particularly those from iconic sets, are often worth grading for potential profit.
- •If you have autographed cards or memorabilia that are rare, grading can authenticate the signature and increase the card's value.
- •Grading makes sense for limited edition or low-numbered cards, as these can see significant appreciation when graded.
- •Vintage cards that have been well-preserved and are in good condition typically yield a higher ROI when graded.
Key Characteristics
Centering
Proper centering is crucial for Hockey cards, as it significantly affects the overall grade and value.
Corners
Sharp corners are essential; any wear can detract from the card's appeal and market value.
Surface Quality
A flawless surface free of scratches or blemishes is vital, especially for high-end cards.
Print Quality
High-quality printing with no misprints or defects is important for vintage and modern cards alike.
When to Grade
- ✓If the card is a rookie card of a current superstar, grading can significantly boost its market value.
- ✓Grading is advisable for cards that are part of a limited print run or have unique features.
- ✓Consider grading if you have cards with significant historical importance or that are part of a championship-winning season.
- ✓If your card has a high potential for appreciation based on player performance, grading can protect your investment.
- ✓Grading is a good idea for cards that have significant sentimental value and potential future resale.
When to Skip
- ✗Do not grade cards that have noticeable wear, as this will lower their grading score and value.
- ✗Avoid grading common cards that can be easily replaced and have little market demand.
- ✗Skip grading for cards that have already been heavily graded and have little chance of improving in value.
- ✗If the card is worth less than the grading fee, it is not a good candidate for grading.
ROI Examples
| Card | Raw | PSA 9 | PSA 10 | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Connor McDavid 2015-16 Upper Deck Young Guns This card is a highly sought-after rookie and its value significantly increases when graded. | $100 | $400 | $1,200 | strong |
Wayne Gretzky 1980 O-Pee-Chee While valuable, the cost to grade may not yield substantial returns unless the card grades very well. | $30 | $80 | $200 | moderate |
Common Hockey Player Card from 1990s The low value of this common card doesn't justify the grading cost. | $5 | $15 | $40 | skip |
Market Insight
The Hockey card market is currently seeing a resurgence in interest, especially for vintage and rookie cards. With more collectors entering the market, grading can provide a significant ROI, particularly for sought-after players and rare cards.