Pokémon Card Grading in the UK
Pokémon card grading has become one of the most popular parts of the hobby, whether you are protecting childhood favourites, chasing high-grade modern pulls, or building a serious collection. At MGC, we offer fast, reliable Pokémon card grading right here in the UK, with no need to send your cards overseas or deal with long international delays.
This page explains how Pokémon grading works, what affects your card’s grade, why collectors choose MGC, and how to submit your cards safely and easily.
What Is Pokémon Card Grading?
Pokémon card grading is the process of examining a card’s condition, scoring it on a 1 to 10 scale, and sealing it in a tamper-evident slab for long-term protection. A graded Pokémon card gives collectors confidence in its condition, makes it easier to buy and sell, and keeps your favourite cards safe for years to come.
Grading is used by beginners, parents submitting their children’s cards, experienced hobbyists, investors, and high-end collectors building full sets. No matter how serious you are about the hobby, graded Pokémon cards tend to hold value more consistently and remain protected from handling and wear.
Pokemon Card Grading
Why Grade Your Pokémon Cards?
Protect your favourite cards
Many collectors grade cards simply to preserve them. Whether it’s a childhood Base Set card or a recent pull from a Scarlet & Violet booster, grading keeps the card safe, straight and protected from moisture, bending or surface damage.
Increase resale value
When selling, a graded card almost always performs better than a raw card. Buyers trust the grade, and a high score can make a significant difference in the final price. For flippers and investors, grading is a key part of the process.
Complete full sets
Collectors often grade cards to complete a uniform, consistent-looking set. Graded Pokémon cards displayed together create a clean, organised and impressive collection.
Great for gifts and children
TCG Parents often grade their children’s favourite cards to create a keepsake that lasts. It turns a simple pull into something special and memorable.
Confidence when buying or trading
Grading removes guesswork. If a card is labelled as an MGC 9 or 10, everyone knows the condition you are dealing with.
How We Grade Pokémon Cards at MGC
Pokémon cards present unique grading challenges, and our process reflects the specific issues seen in both vintage and modern sets. Every Pokémon card is assessed carefully across the four key grading categories.
Centring
Pokémon cards, especially vintage WotC cards, often have natural centring quirks. Some sets are known for left-heavy borders or top-heavy layouts. Modern sets can have improved consistency, but miscuts still appear. Centring is judged relative to typical print tolerances for each era.
Corners
From Base Set to recent Scarlet & Violet prints, corner sharpness varies widely. Older cards often pick up whitening or softening over time, while newer glossy finishes can chip quickly when handled. Corner quality has a strong impact on the final grade.
Edges
Vintage era cards (particularly Neo and EX sets) commonly show silvering along the edges. Modern cards can show tiny flecks or edge chipping directly out of the pack. We assess edges under magnification to identify any visible wear.
Surface
Surface is often the deciding factor for modern cards. Print lines on holofoil areas, roller marks, faint scratches and factory lines are common on sets like Evolving Skies, Crown Zenith and certain alt arts. Vintage holos may show swirl placement, light scratching or dulling. Surface quality is checked under controlled lighting to ensure accuracy.
Popular Pokémon Cards We Grade
MGC grades cards from every era of the Pokémon TCG, from classic 1999 releases to the latest modern sets.
Vintage WotC era
Base Set, Jungle, Fossil, Team Rocket, Gym Heroes, Gym Challenge and all Neo sets.
Vintage grading focuses on edge wear, centring quirks and holo scratches.
EX, Diamond & Pearl, Black & White
Highly collectible early-2000s cards where surface condition and corner sharpness are key.
Sun & Moon and Sword & Shield
Chase cards, alt arts, Rainbow Rares, Gold Rares and popular GX/V/VMAX cards.
Scarlet & Violet and modern sets
151, Paradox Rift, Obsidian Flames, Paldea Evolved, Crown Zenith and modern alt art pulls.
Promos and special releases
ETB promos, Japanese promos, Black Star promos, Pokémon Centre exclusives and event cards.
Pokemon Card Grading
Pokémon Grading Prices
MGC offers simple, transparent pricing with no hidden fees and no upcharges.
- Bronze Service
- Silver Service
- Gold Service
For collectors who grade regularly, consider our membership option for discounted grading rates and ongoing benefits.
How to Get Your Pokemon Cards Graded with MGC
Submitting Pokémon cards to MGC is straightforward and designed with convenience in mind. Whether you are sending a single card or a full set, getting your Pokémon cards graded with MGC is designed to be as simple and stress-free as possible.
Option 1: Submit online
Create an order through this website, package your cards securely and send them to us using your preferred delivery method.
Option 2: Use a Local Submission Hub
If you prefer to hand your cards in, visit one of our partnered Local Submission Hubs around the UK. This avoids postage worry and offers extra peace of mind.
Option 3: Premium collector support
For high-value collections, where collectors want expert help choosing which cards to grade, our premium consultation service is available.
We keep you updated throughout the process, and at every stage you can view your order in the online portal too!
Why Pokémon Collectors Choose MGC
Fast UK turnaround
No overseas shipping, no long waits, no international risk. Everything stays within the UK.
Trusted by collectors
From beginners grading their first few cards to high-end collectors submitting hundreds, MGC is known for consistency, accuracy and friendly service.
Modern, tamper-evident slabs
Our slabs are custom-designed, durable and look fantastic with both vintage and modern Pokémon artwork.
Transparent pricing
No unexpected fees, no upcharges, no complications.
UK-wide convenience
Because we are based in the UK and work with Local Submission Hubs, many collectors searching for ‘pokemon card grading near me’ find MGC is the most convenient option. You can submit online or drop off your cards at a local hub.
Support when you need it
Our team is available to help if you have any questions.
Pokémon Grading FAQs
How much does Pokémon card grading cost?
Prices vary by service level but are totally transparent. The prices you see below are the prices you pay (plus postage).
How long does Pokémon grading take?
Turnaround times depend on the service selected – between 3 days and 8 weeks (though it’s often quicker!) but all grading is carried out in the UK for quick, reliable delivery.
Is it worth grading modern Pokémon cards?
Yes, especially cards with strong demand, popular artwork, or standout condition. Many collectors grade modern alt arts, Gold Rares and promo cards.
Should I grade my old Pokémon cards?
Vintage cards from Base Set, Neo era and EX era often benefit significantly from grading due to long-term value and collector demand.
What affects the grade of a Pokémon card?
Centring, corners, edges and surface condition all contribute. Pokémon cards are also known for specific issues such as print lines and edge chipping. Check out our knowledge centre for lots of detail on how the grading process works!
How do I submit Pokémon cards for grading?
You can start your submission below, or go through a Local Submission Hub. Both options are fast and easy.
Ready to grade your Pokémon cards?
MGC Membership Club
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Local Submission Hubs
Find the nearest submission hub to you! Search by post code.
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Premium Collector Consultation
Book a consultation with a grading expert to review your collection.
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