Why Grade?
Find out why it's worth getting your comic books, magazines, TCGs, sports cards, video games, VHS tapes, DVDs and other pop culture collectibles graded by CGC.
Benefits of Getting Your Collectibles Graded
Collect with Confidence
An important benefit of collectibles grading is confidence. Because the grading process includes authentication, an expert evaluation of condition and encapsulation in a tamper-proof holder, you’ll know without a doubt that a graded collectible is the exact item you think it is — not a fake and not deceptively altered.
Protect Your Collectibles
After grading, each collectible and a label with its description, grade and unique certification number are encapsulated in a crystal-clear holder that provides superior long-term protection from damage, counterfeiting and tampering. The benefits of encapsulation alone are reason to grade — especially if you plan to transport your collectibles. The holder preserves your collectible for generations of enjoyment and allows for easy storage and display.
Increase Value
A savvy collector can see a significant return on investment from grading collectibles. Sales at auction and transactions on eBay and other sites all show that graded collectibles sell for more than ungraded collectibles because collectors, dealers and retailers trust and value the grading process. Grading companies also provide additional services, such as comic book pressing, which can correct some minor flaws so that a collectible receives a higher grade and therefore a potentially higher price.
Start in Three Easy Steps
1. Join CGC.
Who you trust with your collectibles is a big decision. More than any other grading service for pop culture collectibles, CGC has proven expertise, longevity and strict procedures to ensure impartiality, accuracy and consistency. To submit your collectibles to CGC for grading, all you need is a free account, or choose a paid membership to save on grading and comic book pressing services. Join now!
Collecting Resources
View & Share Collections
Verify CGC Certification
CGC listens to fans, keeps up with trends and cares about what's important to collectors. The company and its services are top notch.
— Amaya Brothers Comics
Collecting and Grading FAQs
Should I get my collectibles graded?
Should I get my collectibles graded?
That depends! Grading is a great way to ensure the authenticity of a collectible, increase its value and protect the item for long-term safekeeping. Your personal goals will determine whether any individual collectible warrants grading and encapsulation, as will the item's condition, age, rarity, significance and desirability in the marketplace (if you plan to sell).
How can I tell if my collectible is rare?
How can I tell if my collectible is rare?
You'll need to do your research to understand how rare — and therefore how valuable — your collectible really is. The CGC Census of comics and the CGC Cards Population Report are great resources to help you with this, as are the CGC Comics Registry and the CGC Cards Registry.
Can CGC tell me what my collectible is worth?
Can CGC tell me what my collectible is worth?
No. CGC is an impartial third-party grading company and does not provide an appraisal or evaluation of a collectible's worth.
Who can help me determine the value of my collectible?
Who can help me determine the value of my collectible?
Dealers who buy and sell collectibles like yours can help you determine your collectible’s value. Find a CGC Comics Authorized Dealer or a CGC Cards Authorized Dealer near you.
Will grading increase the value of my collectible?
Will grading increase the value of my collectible?
Rare collectibles and collectibles with high grades frequently sell for more money than ungraded collectibles.
Do I have to join CGC before my collectibles can be graded?
Do I have to join CGC before my collectibles can be graded?
You can either submit through a CGC Authorized Dealer or submit directly as a CGC member. All it takes is a free account to submit to CGC, and paid memberships with benefits start at just $25 a year. With an Associate or Premium membership, you'll get 10% off grading and comic book pressing; with an Elite membership, you'll get 20% off grading and comic book pressing. Plus, Premium and Elite memberships come with a $150 same-as-cash credit. Join now!
How does CGC grade collectibles?
How does CGC grade collectibles?
CGC adheres to a proven, multi-step grading process to ensure accuracy, consistency and integrity. The steps include receiving, verification, authentication, grading, encapsulation, quality control, and packaging and shipping. Learn more about the CGC Comics grading process and the CGC Cards grading process.
Who are the CGC graders?
Who are the CGC graders?
Professional grading requires a trained eye, extensive knowledge and access to the best technology and information. Passion and commitment to bettering the collectibles industry are also essential. CGC employs more than 40 full-time graders who have hundreds of years of combined experience and expertise. CGC graders have access to specialized equipment and the latest research.
Are CGC’s services guaranteed?
Are CGC’s services guaranteed?
Guarantees help to protect collectors, dealers and investors. CGC backs each collectible that it certifies with the comprehensive CGC Guarantee, which is the strongest in the industry.
How do I become a CGC Authorized Dealer?
How do I become a CGC Authorized Dealer?
For information on becoming a CGC Authorized Dealer, please email CGC Customer Service at Service@CGCcomics.com or call or text (+1) 855-GRADE10 (855-472-3310).