Pokemon Card Condition Guide
From Mint to Damaged — learn how condition grades work and how they affect your card's value.
The Pinnacle of Card Condition
PSA 10 Gem Mint is the highest grade a Pokémon card can receive. Here's exactly what it takes to earn that designation and why mint cards command such extraordinary premiums.
Near Mint — The Sweet Spot for Collectors
Near Mint is the most commonly traded condition for collectible Pokémon cards. Here's exactly what Near Mint means, how to evaluate it, and why it's the best value for most collectors.
Lightly Played — Visible Wear, Lasting Value
Lightly Played cards show minor wear from handling or play but remain fully functional and collectible. Here's how to identify, evaluate, and value LP Pokémon cards.
Moderately Played — Honestly Worn, Still Playable
Moderately Played cards show clear signs of use — creases, scratches, and edge wear — but remain functional. Here's what to know about MP condition, pricing, and when it makes sense.
Heavily Played — Significant Wear, Budget Value
Heavily Played cards show major wear including creases, heavy edge damage, and surface defects. Here's what to know about HP condition and its limited role in collecting.
Damaged — When Wear Becomes Destruction
Damaged (Poor) condition represents the lowest tier of card quality. Here's how to identify damaged cards, whether they have any remaining value, and when to recycle rather than sell.
Centering — The Invisible Value Killer
A card's centering can be the difference between a PSA 10 and a PSA 8, and the price difference can be thousands of dollars. Here's how to understand, measure, and evaluate centering.
Whitening and Wear — The Silent Condition Killers
Edge whitening and surface wear are the most common flaws that reduce Pokémon card grades and values. Learn to identify, prevent, and evaluate these ubiquitous condition issues.
Check condition before you price the card
Condition is often the difference between a card worth lunch money and a card worth grading. Use Pokex to understand the factors that move Pokemon card value before you sell, trade, or submit.
Centering can make or break a PSA 10
A card can be pack fresh and still miss a top grade if the borders are off. Learn how Pokemon card centering works before spending money on grading.
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