A graded comic has been professionally evaluated, authenticated, and encapsulated by third-party grading services like CGC, CBCS, or PGX. These certified comics receive numerical ratings from 0.5 (Poor) to 10.0 (Gem Mint) based on condition. The sealed protective case sometimes includes authentication details, grading notes, and are always in a tamper-evident case. Graded comics provide collectors with verified condition assessments and long-term preservation for valuable issues.
To get your comic book graded, first carefully prepare it by placing it in a protective sleeve. Submit it to recognized grading services like CGC, CBCS, or PSA, either directly or at local conventions where they are setup. Choose your desired service level based on book value and turnaround time. The grading service will evaluate, assign a numerical grade, encapsulate the comic, and return it with certification documentation. We always highly recommend taking clear photos (or scans) of both the front & back before submitting.
Buying graded comics provides definitive condition verification from trusted third-party experts, eliminating guesswork about quality. The protective encapsulation ensures long-term preservation against environmental damage. Graded comics typically maintain higher resale value and marketability, with the certification serving as investment authentication. For collectors seeking investment-grade books or pristine copies of significant issues, professionally graded comics offer peace of mind and potential appreciation value.
Comic books are graded through a meticulous multi-point inspection process by professional graders at companies like CGC, CBCS, and PSA. Experts examine factors including cover gloss, page quality, color vibrancy, binding integrity, and presence of defects like creases or tears. Each comic receives a numerical grade from 0.5 (Poor) to 10.0 (Gem Mint) based on standardized criteria. The book is then sealed in a protective case with tamper-evident features and some certification documentation.
