Grading

Graded vs Raw Cards: Which Holds More Value?

Graded vs Raw Cards: Which Holds More Value?

Graded vs Raw Cards: Which Holds More Value?

Feb 17, 2025

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6

min read

Does Grading Actually Make a Difference in Value?

Every collector has faced the dilemma: Should I grade this card or sell it raw? Some believe grading is only for ultra-rare cards, while others see it as an essential investment step. But the reality is clear—graded cards consistently outperform raw cards in price, demand, and long-term value. Let’s break down exactly why.

💰 Graded Cards Sell for More—Here’s the Proof

Graded cards aren’t just about condition—they’re about trust and market confidence. Buyers prefer a certified grade over a seller’s opinion, which translates to higher resale values and faster sales.

Real-World Examples:

  • A raw 2003 LeBron James Topps Chrome Rookie Card might sell for $500-$800.

  • A PSA 10 of the same card? Over $25,000.

  • A raw 1999 Pokémon 1st Edition Charizard might fetch $800-$1,500.

  • A PSA 10 Charizard? It’s worth over $300,000.

With Digital Grading Company’s DeepMint AI, collectors can now instantly assess whether a card is worth grading before sending it to PSA, BGS, or CGC. No guesswork, no wasted fees—just data-backed grading decisions.

📉 Raw Cards Have More Risk & Lower Buyer Confidence

Uncertified cards come with uncertainty. Condition disputes are common, and buyers hesitate to pay premium prices for a card that may have unseen flaws. This results in lower offers and slower sales.

With DeepMint AI, collectors can:

✅ Instantly scan a card using a smartphone camera to detect hidden defects.
✅ Receive an AI-powered grade prediction, reducing submission uncertainty.
✅ Get a full grading breakdown, showing centering, edges, surface wear, and market pricing.

A graded card eliminates doubt, making transactions easier, faster, and more profitable.

🛡 Grading Protects a Card’s Long-Term Value

Raw cards are vulnerable to wear, scratches, and handling damage over time. Grading provides long-term protection, preserving both the condition and value of a card.

💎 Encapsulation prevents surface wear, scratches, and deterioration.
📈 Certified grades hold steady market value even in downturns.
🛒 Graded cards are easier to sell internationally with verified condition reports.

DeepMint AI doesn’t just provide a grade—it gives collectors an investment strategy. By analyzing market trends, it helps determine the best time to sell, trade, or hold based on real-time data.

⏳ Grading Isn’t Just for High-End Cards

Many collectors assume grading is only for rare, high-value cards, but that’s not true. Even mid-tier cards can see significant price boosts from grading, especially if they achieve a top grade.

With DeepMint AI, collectors can:

📊 Predict a card’s grading potential before submission.
📈 See if a card’s value justifies grading costs.
🔍 Identify underpriced raw cards worth grading for profit.

This allows collectors to grade smarter and focus on cards with the highest return potential.=

🚀 The Bottom Line: Graded Cards Win Every Time

While raw card s will always have a place in collecting, graded cards hold superior value, security, and buyer trust. Whether you’re looking to sell, invest, or trade, grading provides the ultimate market advantage.

🔹 More buyer confidence = faster sales
🔹 Verified condition = higher resale value
🔹 Protection & authentication = long-term security

With Digital Grading Company’s DeepMint AI, collectors now have the power to make smarter, data-driven grading decisions in minutes—not months.

📲 [Try AI Grading Today]

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