Sports card grading is the process of evaluating and assigning a condition score to a trading card based on its quality, authenticity, and preservation. This system, typically performed by professional grading companies like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), Beckett Grading Services (BGS), and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty), uses a numerical scale, often from 1 to 10, to assess a card’s condition, with 10 being “Gem Mint” and 1 being “Poor.” Grading takes into account factors such as centering, corners, edges, surface, and overall visual appeal, making it an essential step for collectors looking to determine the value and desirability of a card. Higher grades can significantly increase the card's value, especially for rare or sought-after cards. As the market for sports cards continues to grow, grading has become an integral part of buying, selling, and trading cards, providing transparency and confidence for both collectors and investors alike.