Singles Condition Guide

A clear, honest breakdown of how we grade raw Pokémon cards

Buying singles online should feel simple, transparent and stress-free. Our goal is to make sure you know exactly what you are getting when you shop with us. Every card we sell is checked by hand, under proper lighting, and sorted into one of our condition categories. We take this part seriously because as collectors ourselves, we understand how important condition is.

Below you will find our full condition guide, including what we look for, what we avoid, and what you can expect when your cards arrive.

How We Grade Cards

All raw cards are graded using natural and LED lighting. We check the following:

• Front and back surfaces

• Edges and corners

• Centering

• Scratches and print lines that may appear under angled light

• Any factory defects

• Any signs of wear such as bends, creases or dents

We do not grade cards as PSA, BGS or CGC equivalents. Our aim is simply to provide an accurate and honest assessment based on real collector expectations.

Condition Categories

🌟 Near Mint (NM)

Cards in Near Mint condition are clean, crisp and very close to pack fresh.
You can expect:

• Minimal or no whitening on edges

• No major scratching, only extremely light marks that may show under angled light

• No bends, dents or creases

• Strong overall eye appeal

These cards are ideal for binders, sets and casual grading attempts.

✨ Lightly Played (LP)

Still excellent cards, just not quite NM.
LP cards may show:

• Small spots of whitening

• Light surface wear or small scratches

• Tiny imperfections from general handling

• Slight dulling or cloudiness visible under angled light

LP cards are a great choice when you want a card in strong condition at a slightly lower price.

⭐ Moderately Played (MP)

MP cards show noticeable signs of use but remain fully playable and presentable.
You may see:

• Clear edge or corner wear

• Visible scratches or surface scuffs

• Small dents or impressions that do not break the card surface

• Light warping that can usually be flattened

MP cards suit players, budget collectors or anyone filling a binder slot without needing high grade condition.

✦ Heavily Played (HP)

Cards that have seen a lot of use.
HP cards may show:

• Heavy whitening and wear around the edges

• Strong surface scratching

• Creases or multiple small bends

• More obvious impressions and surface marks

• Warping or fading from age or play

These cards are generally best for casual play or for collectors who need an affordable copy.

✖ Damaged (DMG)

Cards with significant issues.
DMG cards may include:

• Major creases

• Water or moisture damage

• Peeling or tears

• Ink transfer

• Surface material loss

• Large bends or structural problems

Damaged cards are priced accordingly and sold as they are.

Factory Defects

Pokémon cards sometimes come out of packs with imperfections such as print lines, off centering, roller marks or silvering. If a card displays a factory flaw that noticeably affects appearance, we grade the card accordingly, usually NM or LP depending on severity.

Holos, Reverse Holos and Textured Cards

Foil cards show imperfections more easily.
We check specifically for:

• Print lines across foil areas

• Surface scratches visible under angled light

• Edge silvering

• Texture disruptions on full art or textured cards

If these issues are noticeable, they are reflected in the grade.

Why Our Grading Matters

We believe transparency builds trust. That is why:

• Every card is checked by hand

• We never list a card as NM unless we would personally be happy receiving it

• All singles are sleeved and packaged safely

• Higher value cards are protected in top loaders or card savers

• We ship with care so cards arrive exactly as described

We want you to feel confident every time you order from us.

Questions or Concerns

If you ever receive a card and feel the condition is not as described, please contact us. We are collectors too and we will always work with you to make things right.