CGC Trading Cards uses a proven, multi-step process that is designed to ensure accuracy, consistency and integrity while safeguarding your valuable cards. Explore the key stages of the CGC Trading Cards grading process below.
When a submissions is received, it is opened by trained CGC Trading Cards staff under security cameras and immediately checked against the submission paperwork. The submission is then entered into CGC Trading Cards' proprietary tracking system with a unique submission number.
Each trading card gets a more detailed review to confirm that its description matches the information provided by the submitter. A unique ID and barcode is assigned to track the card throughout the CGC Trading Cards grading process. At this stage, the collectible is separated from the submission paperwork so that the CGC Trading Cards graders don't know the submitter's identity. This helps to ensure complete impartiality.
Trading cards are stored in the CGC vault until they are ready to be reviewed for authenticity. If a card is determined to be genuine, it will be graded according to the industry-standard CGC Trading Cards Grading Scale. Note: A card will be rejected for grading if it is of questionable authenticity.
Card grading is a team effort, with multiple CGC Trading Cards professionals examining every card with the aid of advanced technology, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and consistency. Each grader enters their grade into CGC Trading Cards' proprietary computer system. A consensus is then reached on the final grade of the card.
After grading, the card and a label bearing its description, grade (plus sub-grades if requested), certification number and a QR code are inserted into the CGC Trading Cards holder, which is crystal-clear and provides superior long-term protection. Numerous security features in both the holder and label guard against counterfeiting and tampering.
CGC Trading Cards images all graded cards after encapsulation. To check the legitimacy of a CGC Trading Cards-certified card, these images are available to view 24/7 on the CGC Trading Cards website using the Verify CGC Trading Cards Certification tool. CGC Trading Cards also offers premium high-resolution digital imaging as an add-on service for submissions.
A CGC Trading Cards Quality Control specialist carefully inspects the card, label and holder. All of the certification details are reviewed for accuracy, and the holder is checked for any defects or contaminants.
Finally, encapsulated cards are individually counted and checked against the original submission paperwork before being securely packaged in a sturdy cardboard box with protective packaging materials. The CGC Trading Cards-certified cards are now ready to be sent back to the submitter.
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