Condition guide
Every raw card in the shop carries one of four condition grades. Here is exactly what each one means at Dub's, and roughly what it does to the price. When in doubt, we grade down.
Near Mint
Looks pack-fresh at arm’s length. Sharp corners, clean edges, no scratches on the holo under light, no whitening beyond a speck or two on the back. Might have a tiny print line straight from the factory.
Price: Full market price.
Lightly Played
A few small signs of a life in a binder. Minor whitening on the back edges or a corner, a light surface scratch or two, maybe slight edge wear. No creases, no bends, no water damage. Still a great display copy.
Price: Roughly 70–85% of near-mint value.
Moderately Played
Clearly played, still solid. Noticeable whitening, several surface scratches, softer corners, possibly a small dent or a light crease that does not break the surface. Fine for a binder, not for grading.
Price: Roughly 45–65% of near-mint value.
Heavily Played
Loved hard. Heavy whitening, creases, bends, scuffed holo, or writing. Everything is still there and it is still the card — priced so a collector can own it without the premium.
Price: Roughly 25–40% of near-mint value.
How we check a card
- Corners and edges under a bright light, front and back.
- Holo tilted through the light for scratches and print lines.
- Surface for dents, creases and bends — the deal breakers.
- Centering, mostly for cards that might grade.
- Authenticity: print pattern, texture, and a light test.
Graded cards
Slabs from PSA, CGC and Beckett are sold on the grader's number, with the case condition noted. We do not crack slabs and we will tell you if a case has scuffs or a scratch.
Thinking of grading something you own? Bring it to a show and Dub will give you an honest read on whether it is worth the fee.