PSA Card Grading Process Revealed

[Fred]

Bottom line - Grading is still SUBJECTIVE....

How the heck can anyone expect to see consistency in grading if people are to rely on the "naked eye". We've seen enough examples of paper loss being missed and other issues not caught during grading.

I've seen enough PSA graded cards graded with an OC qualifier that had better centering than cards without the OC qualifier. Oh, that's right, it's the "naked eye" thing.

The numerical grading system is bull $hit. I still think it's funny that there are people that care more about a numerical grade assigned to a card than they actually care about the card.

I see a good purpose for TPG companies but assigning numerical grades shouldn't be a part of it. The label should indicate AUTH (authentic) and if the card was altered then place that information (ALT) on the label and let the purchaser figure out the rest. If the TPG companies did this then nobody would be bashing them for the mistakes they're being paid not to make.

[ullmandds]

This is about as "revealing" as the Joey P thread!

[frankbmd]

The half grades recently employed by PSA required the purchase of a new grading wheel. Accurate division by two (2) is required to determine the grade.

[ullmandds]

frank...does this mean psa has changed their scale...to include "11" for those really really "loud" cards!?!?!??!

[frankbmd]

Peter,

You are not a PSA grader.

11 divided by 2 = 5.5 EX+

We are forwarding your application to CSA.

And before anyone asks,

1 divided by 2 = Authentic

[3-2-count]

Originally Posted by Fred

"The numerical grading system is bull $hit. I still think it's funny that there are people that care more about a numerical grade assigned to a card than they actually care about the card.

I see a good purpose for TPG companies but assigning numerical grades shouldn't be a part of it. The label should indicate AUTH (authentic) and if the card was altered then place that information (ALT) on the label and let the purchaser figure out the rest".

Smartest thing stated in this thread yet. Well said Fred!!

[glchen]

Originally Posted by Fred

Bottom line - Grading is still SUBJECTIVE....

...

Do people even know what subjective vs objective mean? TPGs are obviously human like referees but they are a neutral third party between the buyer and seller.

[Exhibitman]

Pete, only Chuck Norris's cards are 11's...

[Bocabirdman]

I always thought that the "P" in PSA stood for Punxsutawny. I figured grading is what Phil does the rest of the year. I mean, is it a coincidence that they don't accept submissions on Feb 2?

[Bocabirdman]

I always thought that the "P" in PSA stood for Punxsutawny. I figured grading is what Phil does the rest of the year. Do they accept submissions on February 2nd?

[Tao_Moko]

Good on PSA for finding a way to capatilize on the hobby. However, these statements only add validity to the "Authentic" or "Altered" concept.

Also, I would prefer an objective grader anyday. My 3 year old can subjectively grade a card.

[frankbmd]

Originally Posted by Tao_Moko

My 3 year old can subjectively grade a card.

How much does he charge?

[Tao_Moko]

Originally Posted by frankbmd

How much does he charge?

Free as long as you don't sue me. Guaranteed to be returned in beater shape after he handles it.

[toledo_mudhen]

Originally Posted by Exhibitman

Pete, only Chuck Norris's cards are 11's...

Chuck Norris will kick your ass...........

[HOF Auto Rookies]

simple solution, if you simply don't like it, then don't buy or use TPA's

[Bocabirdman]

Originally Posted by HOF Auto Rookies

simple solution, if you simply don't like it, then don't buy or use TPA's

That is a perfectly logical solution. It doesn't, however, lend itself to endless debate. What fun is that?

[ullmandds]

it's almost impossible in this day and age...to not "use" a TPG in some way shape or form...whether it be buying a card that has been graded...or for resale...as in many cases you'd be loving mucho danero on the table.