Our process
How we grade every card
No card reaches the shelf on a guess. Every raw single passes through the same hands-on checks, scored against a published standard so the grade on the page is the grade in the sleeve.
Step 01
Intake and logging
Each card is logged into the vault and matched to its exact set, number and print run, so the listing is accurate before anything else happens.
Step 02
Authentication
We confirm the card is genuine, checking print texture, holo pattern and back registration against known references for that set.
Step 03
Surface inspection
Under raking light and magnification we look for scratches, print lines, whitening and any factory or handling marks across both faces.
Step 04
Corners and edges
Every corner and edge is examined for softening, dinging or fraying, the wear that most affects how a card presents in hand.
Step 05
Centering
Front and back borders are measured and the centering is recorded, so you know how the frame sits before you decide.
Step 06
Grade assignment
The card is scored against our published scale, from Near Mint down to Damaged, and the grade is printed on the product page.
Step 07
Photograph and list
The exact card is photographed in natural light and listed on its own. What you see in the photos is the card that ships.
Step 08
Sleeve and dispatch
Sleeved, toploaded and packed in discreet padded packaging, then shipped tracked from Dubai, usually the same or next day.
The scale
Near Mint down to Damaged
Raw singles carry one of five grades. The grade you see is the grade printed on the card page, next to the photographs.
Near Mint
Sharp corners and a clean surface, with at most a tiny factory flaw.
Lightly Played
Minor edge or corner wear and light surface marks, still displays well.
Moderately Played
Noticeable wear, whitening or scratches visible without magnification.
Heavily Played
Heavy wear, creasing or scuffing across corners, edges or surface.
Damaged
Major creases, tears, water damage or writing. Priced accordingly.
See it on the shelf
Every listing states its condition plainly. Browse graded slabs, each with its certificate number, or the full catalogue of raw singles and sealed product.