Are SGC Slabs Catching up to PSA Values? Analyzing the Data From Recent Sales!!

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10 ай бұрын

The sports card industry has gotten so involved with graded cards, that at this point, it's important that we continue to stay up to date on everything involving PSA, SGC, and the other major grading companies. When SGC announced this week that they were lowering their prices, but keeping the turnaround times the same, that was a major piece of news. I look into the data of recent sales and analyze how sgc and psa slabs compare in terms of value. It’s important to continue to monitor card values between the two major grading companies.
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Пікірлер: 196

@thinkblue7718 10 ай бұрын

Sgc is definitely improving in many ways imo love their attention to detail and customer service. As far as psa I think their registry plays a big part in values. Great video as always great food for thought 👍

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Appreciate it. And I agree. SGC has VERY good customer service.

@jasonjanega3537 9 ай бұрын

Loaded all of my SGC cards to the new app the day it came out. It’s really nice, very user friendly and pretty cool. I am also one of the few in the middle that collects both.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I look forward to playing with it more and being more comfortable with it. I haven't had a chance to use it much yet.

@jimclouse327 10 ай бұрын

I bought a lot of my more expensive cards in SGC holders because I felt I was getting more card for my money. They have high grading standards without the PSA markup. It also seems as if SGC is more forgiving for minor details that PSA would reject a card for (Min size). I also value consistency in my slabs so I tend to buy PSA for some sets and SGC for others depending on which that set is mostly comprised of. Ultimately the set registry is a giant factor.

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

Great point about getting more for your money. A LOT of people see SGC and PSA as equals. So, if SGC values are lagging, it's a great discount if you're on board with SGC.

@ACollectorsDream 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for your hard work in coming up with these results, definitely SGC is catching up.

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

My pleasure, Orlando. And...yes, I agree. SGC seems to be catching up.

@larrygitlin6017 10 ай бұрын

I just bought a 1954 Topps SGC 5 Yogi Berra. I noticed the average grade for PSA was a lot higher than SGC and there was so many more cards available in PSA to buy. I did a buy it now with some negotiation, did pay more than the average SGC and below the average PSA price. I paid a little more because I liked the card and I thought it was under graded. By the way the card is 65 35 side to side but I am not a stickler on centering, registration and corners more important . Anyway with SGC lowering their price I am gathering cards I wanted graded but did not want to pay the high price. Its now worth sending many of these cards in. I have used both PSA and SGC in the past but I have been sending as of late only to SGC as they are more consistent in their grading.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally get it. The turnaround time, lower cost, and consistency of late are definitely things a lot of people prefer for SGC.

@williampotts7205 9 ай бұрын

Isn't it all about the condition of the cards. Eye appeal. What value does it have according to your eye appeal. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Some cards look really good in the Tux. The 1971 black border looks 👌 🔥 in a Tux. That was a SGC win. I agree. Thanks for your hard work and research on these data dives.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

No doubt that a ton of SGC cards look really good in the tux slabs. I think that has a lot to do with it.

@3D80sKid 9 ай бұрын

I think you are spot on with your closing assessment regarding the PSA Registry and the Investors snagging high grades for premiums. I think once you go below "collector grade" any variation is more likely to be based off eye appeal and centering of each particular card. It will be interesting to see if the eventual SGC Registry leads to any shift in the data.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally agree with you. And, I very much agree about the coming SGC registry. It'll be interesting to see how collectors take to it.

@mookiechillson 10 ай бұрын

I’m excited about the sgc news - very good for consumers! And the data is useful and I see the same thing anecdotally, mid range sgc cards competing evenly with PSA.

@willg.2045 9 ай бұрын

It is interesting that SGC seemed to hold its own so well for several cards. As you say, competition is great for the hobby and I am really excited by the reduced price of SGC grading. With great customer service, a low price point, and respect in the hobby, if you are a collector not looking to resell, SGC is perhaps the best choice right now for grading.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I'm certainly hoping that competition continues to drive prices down and innovation up for us collectors.

@jbeam5630 9 ай бұрын

Another great video. I appreciate the time and effort you put into collecting and analyzing your findings. I truly believe the PSA hype for cards in the 8-10 grades is driven by "registry egomaniacs" with lots of dollars and not necessarily by true collectors. I think SCG is working very hard to enhance their niche in the card grading realm. With their new announcement they certainly will not hurt their cause.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Great point and I totally agree.

@anthonypaolini4476 9 ай бұрын

Excellent work on your research. Your doing a great service for us collectors!

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

That's super kind of you to say. Means a lot. Thanks so much.

@JohnMiller-jj9kx 9 ай бұрын

Great analysis! I would like to see these same cards re-evaluated in 6 months. Of these 15 cards that SGC won, 8 of them are by 7% or less, and some of those SGC wins are by less than $5.00. That’s hardly enough to say that SGC is a winner in those cases. Still, I like this kind of stuff because we all can be become smarter and maybe better collectors. Thanks again!

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I'm going to continue to track this data, so I will continue to show updates, for sure. And, I think you make a good point about how SGC was ahead by a small percentage in the ones they won. But, when I did a similar analysis a few months ago, SGC won fewer. So, being ahead at all is progress for them.

@davidwillard3553 9 ай бұрын

Thanks for all your work. This is great news to have and look forward to all your updates. But this does not change the way I collect. I am a SGC guy and happy to know that I can get my cards at a discount compared to the over priced PSA cards. I do agree with what you said that this data is not the be all end all of data. But for what I see when I purchase SGC graded cards, that they seem to be just as expensive or even higher than any card offered with a PSA holder. I think that people recognize that the SGC card just looks better and want more money for it. Thanks Dave

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally get it and I don't expect anyone to change their collecting habits based on anything I share on my channel. I think you're spot on about SGC being a discount for an equal looking card, and I totally understand why people would prefer SGC. I used to be a PSA only collector and now I collect both. I think both have strengths and weaknesses.

@cryptonite8495 2 ай бұрын

I wish I had come across this excellent research sooner. As a vintage collector, the 1980 Rickey rookie is my collecting cutoff. I have him in SGC 9. Clearly it behooves me to send to PSA for crossover, well worth PSA's exhorbitant fee in this case. I imagine flippers of all eras shop for high grades in SGC with the same idea.

@MidLifeCards 2 ай бұрын

Yeah. I think there are probably a fair amount of people who do that.

@DarinsCards 9 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing the work and research, great video

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Appreciate that. It was a lot of work, but I feel it was important to get a snapshot.

@ericgerber4099 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for this info and staying on the developments. I agree, this is critical information.

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

My pleasure. I think it's important for us to stay up to date on where the valuations stand.

@davidlapointe7446 9 ай бұрын

Thanks Graig for all the work u put into your videos

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Appreciate your kind words. Thanks.

@cacsports 9 ай бұрын

Appreciate al of this effort. I would think they were seeing a drop off in demand due to PSA promotions - will be interesting to see if they can make good on their turnaround time promise. I might consider SGC now.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think more and more people are moving towards SGC instead of only being PSA. It'll be interesting to see how this plays out.

@mrmjmiller 9 ай бұрын

To me, its all about the registry. I think that if there was no PSA registry SGC would be right there with PSA, possibly even better with their more desirable holder.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think the registry may be a HUGE reason as to why the high end premium cards in high end premium grades are still much more expensive in PSA Holders.

@jamespinette9403 9 ай бұрын

Love this one Graig, great topic. Finally but slowly, people are realizing the consistency of SGC and the not so consistent PSA. The $15 per card certainly does hurt the SGA cause either. I guess it’s time for me to get my first submission together, however, I am still apprehensive…..

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think you should give it a try. If you hate how it goes, don't do it again. But, for that price point, you can't really go wrong.

@WilliamScott-ug9df 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for this. Very informative and helpful. I do think the PSA set registry is a factor.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally agree. That registry is a great place for the guys with awesome collections to show off what they've got. As a result, the high end collectors seem to gravitate to PSA.

@markdesilva1893 10 ай бұрын

It seems like Bakker is dropping fast while SGC is beginning to rise in popularity and value. Aesthetically I like the SGC holders more but from a financial standpoint of reinvesting I believe peace as a still holds strong I used to grade PSA almost exclusively, but now I’m splitting my purchases between PSA and SGC. It’s my hope that SGC will continue to rise in popularity in value, thanks again for all the work!

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

You just described my situation. I used to be PSA only. Now I'm split. Both have advantages and disadvantages. I agree with your comment whole heartedly.

@evanfraser64 9 ай бұрын

Great video. Recently I’ve been buying PSA/SGC/BGS 10/10/quad 9.5 hockey rookies from the late 1980s and 1990s of Top 50 all-time players-particularly, Federov, Leetch, Sakic, Thornton, Hull (psa 9), and Selanne. I buy SGC or BGS when I can get the cards at 66% the cost of PSA. I’ve been winning a lot of SGC auctions recently, most recently the 1990-91 Upper Deck French Federov SGC 10 at $41.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Totally agree with you that if SGC cards are selling at 2/3s the price of PSA, that's a steal.

@RipFan8 9 ай бұрын

Excellent video and data as always. I believe that SGC has made up ground over the past year, and it seems that trend is still moving upwards. It will be interesting to see where this data is in 3-6 months.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I agree that SGC has made up ground. I will continue to track it.

@rickellsmore8731 9 ай бұрын

Thanks Craig! I think the comparison works for modern cards, however eye appeal is more important than grade when looking at vintage cards. I am a PSA collector because of the Registry and have cracked SGC to send to PSA. Mostly the same, but about 30% were graded lower by PSA.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Interesting. I wish you had documented the crack and grade at PSA process. That would've been super interesting.

@UncleWiggily. 8 ай бұрын

As a mostly 60's and 70's SGC private collector, I fall right in line with your heat map.

@MidLifeCards 8 ай бұрын

Awesome. I thought it was fairly interesting information after running the numbers.

@DownLow_SanDiego 9 ай бұрын

Shhhh!! Class is in session!! I collect both PSA and SGC but I only get my cards graded through SGC. My latest batch was 59 cards. From the time they received them to the time I got them back was about 7 days. There were a few misprinted labels and at least 10 are getting regraded. I almost feel like they rushed through trying to get that daily quota and turnaround time. I'ld much rather wait a few more days to let them take their time and do it properly. I did see some bias as well. All of my O's cards received horrible grades. All of my Acunas we graded horribly as well and one of my autos wasnt even graded(Gunnar H.). The worst part was having one of my cards damaged. All of this I think was due to the sudden expansion and lack of vetting/training of employees and that rushed turnaround. The price only becomes worth it when all of the wrinkles are ironed out. Until then its hit, miss or deal with PSA's tbd turnaround. As for the resale price, if I decide to sell one of my SGC's, I always try to match the PSA price. Thanks again for another great video.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Sorry to hear about the negative experience. That stinks!

@DownLow_SanDiego 9 ай бұрын

@@MidLifeCards It happens and wont deter me from using them. They are making it right with me. There will always be hiccups during an expansion and SGC has my support 100%. If I hit that Powerball on Saturday im buying in lol.

@stevesousa1475 9 ай бұрын

Two thoughts here as a vintage collector. First I think price for PSA depends on old vs new holder as grading has standards has changed. Also i have bought SGC slabs cracked them and sent to PSA for higher grades.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I agree with you in regards to the old vs new holders, though some old holders do hold up over time, many do not in my opinion.

@GoldenSlumber474 9 ай бұрын

Great work Graig as usual. What’s ironic for me is that I always graded with SGC but now that I’m buying graded cards, I’ve been buying more PSA slabs 😂 Of course, it’s easily explained as a majority of slabs available still weighs heavily towards PSA.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

It sounds like you collect like me...buy the best card at the best price. If that's PSA, that's cool. If it's SGC, that's fine too. Buy the card, not the grade. I'm right there with you.

@DerethAC 9 ай бұрын

I don't have the data in front of me here, but I wonder if the strong pricing of SGC would soften if there were more quantity available. As you said, there are people who want PSA and others that want SGC. PSA is essentially equal or higher in resale despite having significantly more quantity available for any particular card. What that tells me is that SGC is strong in their niche for vintage with the amount of cards that are available, but if there were similar numbers of a card available from both SGC and PSA, it would dilute the demand for SGC and the resale gap would move noticeably in PSA's favor.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

TERRIFIC point. I've often wondered that myself. The SGC only collectors have fewer SGC samples to bid on, so when they come up, does that drive up the cost of what would otherwise be lower. It's impossible to know, but a great question.

@Hockeycardsplus 10 ай бұрын

Thx for the great info, maybe one company had better versions/eye appeal than the other in a category so they sold higher

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

Could be part of it, but this is an average of several cards, so only a couple of times was there an "outlier" sale. But, its certainly possible.

@JunkWaxHero 9 ай бұрын

Interesting analysis. The one thing I’d be interested to see here is the sample size on each of these grades per grading company. For instance, how many 9s are there for a Rickey rookie, etc? And what’s the gap in timeframe on those sales?

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Fair points for sure, Mike. It's especially tough at the really low and really high grades, because the population (especially in SGC) isn't very high in some cards. But, in a card like the 55 Jackie Robinson, there are a lot of cards out there for both companies in most of the grade points. It's definitely a limitation of a data pull like this, as very few vintage cards have lots of sales in all of the grades for both companies. Appreciate your comment.

@ClementeCollector 10 ай бұрын

The data tells me, that if you buy cards in 4 or 5, it’s really close and both companies cards are equal. But if you buy high grade cards psa is the company to sub to but SGC is the company to buy those cards. The only other issue is- PSA has been grading tougher then SGC, so a PSA 2, could be an SGC 3 in vintage. Great job Graig!

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

I agree, Theo. That’s my takeaway as well.

@ACD1994 9 ай бұрын

Indeed. The higher grades- the data changes. And, the gap is, not as close. A 1962 Topps Mickey Mantle (PSA 7) recently sold for $3,250.00. An SGC 7 sold for $1,725.00. That's a fairly significant difference in price.

@TarheelDiggin 9 ай бұрын

Very interesting data! What this tells me is that SGC is more appealing to your average "collectors" and PSA is more attractive to "investors". As you continue to monitor this, please consider adding a few popular pre-war cards too.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think you and I are on the same page on this for sure. Does seem like collectors are going towards SGC and investors are going towards PSA. My takeaway as well.

@williambartenslager4134 9 ай бұрын

I only buy PSA for my Tiger sets on the PSA registry. I actually prefer SGC but the PSA slabs used to always command higher premiums, interesting to see if that changes over time.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think more and more people are open to PSA, where in the past, it was only PSA they collected.

@coreymerriman8051 10 ай бұрын

Thank you for this data. I think SGC is a no-brainer and I hope they overtake PSA. The only redeeming quality of PSA currently is they are perceived as being more valuable. However, when you factor in the exorbitant costs to grade with them, especially on the more valuable and higher grade stuff, I think they PSA is typically a worse value. It can cost hundreds or thousands more to grade a more valuable card through PSA, whereas SGC is one very reasonable cost across the board.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Good points. I think there is a growing movement of collectors towards SGC. They're doing a lot of things really well. So, I totally get it.

@coreyhagen 9 ай бұрын

I collect both but will only grade with SGC. I like their slabs better and now they have an app.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I get it. I think a lot of people share that opinion, nowadays.

@rustystaples7656 9 ай бұрын

I prefer raw cards by a wide margin but when I do buy a slab it's usually an SGC for $50 and under and I crack it out. So I really like the fact that SGC remains relatively more affordable. PSA wonks can keep overpaying for their PC cards and those flipping can make a nice ROI. Having two tiers of pricing for the same-grade card keeps aids diversity. So in my opinion this is an overall plus for the hobby.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally get the raw preference. The only difficulty is buying raw cards online can be tough. Hard to know what you're really bidding on.

@rustystaples7656 9 ай бұрын

I don't recommend buying raw online if the price is significant to you. Especially vintage. That is what we have card shops and shows for. If you don't have those near you then online is the only realistic alternative for vintage.although I've had good success with 90s and later.

@Drhook2323 9 ай бұрын

Thank you so much for all your hard work. It really is helpful and teaches us a lot. You truly are a good teacher. I think SGC is definitely starting to catch up. Also, I think there’s great opportunity in buying higher grade SGC cards because they’re just cheaper right now. by the way, I have something for you don’t know exactly how to get it to you. If you have a way of personal messaging me or a way that I can get in contact with you that would be great.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

You can always email me at Midlifecards@gmail.com

@leapheap6837 10 ай бұрын

I’m a believer of SGC now. I’ve changed my viewpoint. There new slabs look professional and well protected of the card.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I think both companies have a lot of pros and cons. And, I am more accepting of SGC now than I was a year ago. They've made a lot of positive progress.

@AdamJUlrey 9 ай бұрын

That it’s about time but I don’t use either as I pay 9 dollars for Cgc and I really believe in them I know the resale is different but their customer service and quality of slabs is better and I’m going to support the company that seems to care about collectors …I have no trouble selling CGc slabs all the time no one will be able to knock PSA off it’s high horse but 60-80 day turnarounds is where they loose me I agree with your points but I use CGC only and will for the foreseeable future hopefully PSA will come down in price and turn around times

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I love that there are a lot of options for collectors, for exactly the reasons that you mentioned!!

@AdamJUlrey 9 ай бұрын

Love what you do buddy keep it up

@studfieldmouse1369 9 ай бұрын

I’ve always used the business model of charge less - sell more. Always give A-plus customer service with quality product

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

SGC seems to be following that model.

@marcthesilvershark 10 ай бұрын

I think it is also look of the card in slab ex. Rose and Ryan are black and white cards!

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

I thought about that too. But, the Rose having a thick white border looks great against the SGC tux, while I think the black of the 71 Ryan doesn't pop against the same black border. I think the 71 Ryan actually looks better in the PSA slab, but no doubt the Rose looks better in the SGC in my opinion.

@Politano1955 9 ай бұрын

Vintage cards look amazing in SGC slabs. The only graded cards I now buy are in SGC slabs. But then again, I'm a collector rather than a seller.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Well said. Collectors do seem to be gravitating to SGC over PSA.

@michaelmccorey3528 10 ай бұрын

like you graig i collect both psa and sgc but i only grade with sgc. I feel that there slabs are better looking and much more durable and there customer service is far superior to anyone else. Just got back a 49 card sub a lot of 4-6's but you really cant complain with 50-70 year old cards the only one was my 68 seaver i thought was going to a least a 6 to 7 and came back a 3.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Sorry to hear about the Seaver. There must've been a tiny wrinkle that they found.

@michaeldenzer6024 6 ай бұрын

On value of psa vs. Sgc. Depends on the card. More high end rare cards yes! But just a low end not so much...

@MidLifeCards 6 ай бұрын

Fair point. Some of the older tobacco cards look so good in SGC Tux's.

@TylerHilyard 5 ай бұрын

SGC lowering their price should close the value gap in most cases. As for the large gaps in value, I think if people think they have a 10, of course they are going to go with PSA to maximize their ROI. If SGC can become equal to PSA in market share, and push the quality narrative, then eventually people will start to submit their gems to SGC. I think this is a great move by SGC. I just wish they would make their labels a little more elegant. They just feel “good enough” to me.

@MidLifeCards 5 ай бұрын

I think that's a good point. It'll be interesting to see how it plays out.

@leehaskins307 9 ай бұрын

I’m a vintage collector.. SGC is the vintage slab to have…. modern is PSA…. but I only collect vintage so I want vintage slabs in SGC no matter the price…..

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally get that. I agree that vintage looks good in the tux slab.

@MichaelIp 9 ай бұрын

As someone who buys and sells a lot of higher end baseball, PSA crushes SGC in that category. Your analysis reinforces what I experience. PSA also dominates the ultra modern, even despite SGC's new set promotions recently. Also supported by your analysis is finding SGC's strong point - the mid and lower end vintage, where the sub fees and wait times from PSA don't make as much sense. At the end of the day I think SGC remains a solid #2 to PSA for vintage. SGC lags behind for TCG and ultra modern. Curious to see how this all changes in the next 6-12 months. I don't imagine the high end vintage differences change much, but I could see SGC closing the gap for ultra modern and TCG.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Great points. I agree that for the "high end" cards and grades, PSA continues to dominate. But, SGC seems to be catching up in mid grade and mid tier cards.

@thereverendripps1733 9 ай бұрын

SGC and vintage is closer, but for modern the gap has not changed much.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Agreed. Does seem to be that way.

@krisfichtelman6123 9 ай бұрын

I bet money that if sgc put a scan code on the card like psa, instead of making me pull out a magnifying glass to read the certification number, they would quickly rise to the level of sgc, especially since they are typically cheaper than psa.👀

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Interesting point. You may be right that a QR code is something SGC should consider.

@michaeldenzer6024 6 ай бұрын

No. But make cert. # bigger to read !!!

@marcbeutler7204 9 ай бұрын

The high end stuff goes to PSA because high end buyers primarily care about prestige above all else, and PSA is the one that gets all the attention

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Certainly seems that way. And I think the registry has a lot to do with that.

@Kbunk_Youth_Football_Wrestling 10 ай бұрын

It looks like SGC is getting fairly close to parity in the mid grade "collector grade" area. I do find it odd that they were more apart in the low grades. I'm thinking that might just be down to what the actual cards were because a 1 or 2 can vary wildly from card card. The set registry really effects the values on the high grade vintage...that combined with people just wanting their cards in the same holder across the board (this is a bigger factor than most people realize). It would be MUCH harder to build a set with SGC because of how many fewer cards there are out there graded.

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

I agree with your analysis as well. I think the collector grade people are moving more and more towards SGC, and the high end premium stuff still is lead by PSA. We'll see where it goes from here.

@JayCU19 3 ай бұрын

Their black slabs look great too

@MidLifeCards 3 ай бұрын

No argument from me. I love the black tux look.

@jude999 10 ай бұрын

I hated that CSG changed to another company. They had by far the best slabs and labels for a moment.

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

I agree that their slabs were REALLY good looking.

@dwiii1635 9 ай бұрын

I think it's a few things. 1. PSA's registry gives them a unique advantage, but also the seller's since you can post on Ebay those classic titles like, "1970 Topps So and So RC HOF POP 10 WOWZERS AMAZING MUST BUY NOW" nonsense. Way harder to do that with any other grading company with the lack of system, and SGC really needs to get moving on it to make a dent. 2. PSA clearly exhibits population control on specific cards, like the Rickey Henderson and Nolan Ryan rookie card, which has had really good deep dives on the data and how they do that. They can then point to their registry to say how "rare" a grade of a card is which will naturally drive up price. Just my read on the situation.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

1. I agree about the advantage the registry provides. I know SGC is working on their own, and it will be interesting to see how it is embraced. 2. I know a lot of people have talked about population control. I don't know how anyone could prove that one way or another, but I understand why some people may have that opinion. I try not to speculate too much about stuff like that, but at times, I think we all wonder, for sure.

@dacryptkeeper6836 10 ай бұрын

I wonder what it would cost to get that 1939 Play Ball Ted Williams rookie card graded!?

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

All cards, regardless of value, are now $15 through SGC according to their press release.

@dacryptkeeper6836 10 ай бұрын

@@MidLifeCards I am soooo leery about sending that in to be graded, that it's not as easy as it sounds!

@JohnMiller-jj9kx 9 ай бұрын

I thought it was a $1500 max on the new pricing

@Bostnfn 9 ай бұрын

I like the idea that SGC seems to be the collector service. I'm in that boat, and much prefer SGC as a grader for my cards - look good in their holder, their price point is great, and they get the cards back to me quickly so I can enjoy them in my collection.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Agreed. To me, SGC seems like the "collector" company and PSA is the "investor" company.

@Bostnfn 9 ай бұрын

@@MidLifeCards it absolutely is!

@tbone2367 9 ай бұрын

Certainly an outlier on the Carlton SGC 4… higher $$$ than the SGC 5. Must have been a quite large sale mixed in.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I noticed that too. I think a couple of 4s had a really high sales price. I looked at one of them, and it looked severely undergraded.

@KevinKauffman-jf9ex 9 ай бұрын

I am not sure why but I prefer PSA slightly more. Exception is T205’s, T206’s and earlier cards then I prefer SGC.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Pre War really do look great in SGC holders. I 100% agree with that. I used to be just PSA, but now I'm split between PSA and SGC.

@blakesbreaksrips7088 9 ай бұрын

SGC IS THE NEW GOAT OF GRADING!!!!!

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

They're definitely catching up fast.

@Brian-pf7qq 9 ай бұрын

Grading is ruining the hobby, if you are baseing the price on the brand of the container and not the card. The reason for collecting baseball cards is collecting the players of the game not the container. I only collect raw.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

My Dad prefers raw as well. Quite frankly, I totally get that perspective. It's just hard to buy raw cards online on ebay and other auction sites.

@jasonfuller2734 9 ай бұрын

Grading has a purpose, especially if you are buying online or when you can’t physically hold/see the card. Are there aspects I hate about it? Sure. Is it ruining the hobby? No.

@richardslade9307 9 ай бұрын

You could argue grading has helped the hobby grow immensely. The amount of people buying/selling/collecting especially online transactions would be way down without grading services and liquidity in the entire card market would go backwards. Is there some bad parts about grading?? Of course. It’s an overall positive for the hobby. Anything that makes more people more comfortable to do transactions with cards is good for the hobby

@seanwilson512 9 ай бұрын

@@richardslade9307Great points

@coreyhagen 9 ай бұрын

If anything it’s expanded the hobby. Now we have actual metrics to determine the condition of a card and sure it’s still mostly subjective but it’s also another way to collect, so you can’t be a hater. Flippers and Scalpers ain’t ever leaving the game. That would be anti-American. Lol

@phillipmichalec9486 9 ай бұрын

YOUR RESULTS DON'T SURPRISE ME. I COLLECT BOTH BUT HOLD NO VALUE DIFFERENCE FOR PRE 2000 CARDS . AFTER 2000 I SEE MOSTLY PSA SO THAT 'S WHERE I TEND TO GO. SHOW DEALERS TELL ME THAT PSA SELLS FOR MORE THAN SCG. THANK YOU FOR YOUR EFFORTS AND PLEASE KEEP IT UP.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Appreciate the comment and feedback. Thanks.

@ACD1994 9 ай бұрын

SGC lowering their grading from 20 to 15. Should hopefully have a positive affect, on some of, the other grading companies. PSA just receives, so much more submissions every month than any other company, SGC included. It's hard to compare the data in some cases, when there aren't as many sales to compare them to. At this point, though the only thing that would really knock PSA from the leading company, is if they shoot (continue?) to shoot themselves, in the foot, which very well could happen. What hurts SGC IMO, is they don't have a set registry and, yes some people don't care about that, but there are also a good deal of people, who do, I really think SGC should consider it...and, the other thing is, the technology part. What do they do with the grading process, that separates themself from PSA...or any other grading company? Their slabs being better or worse looking would just be, someone's subjective opinion and, own personal preference. While PSA has higher grading fees'; there's also greater potential for, a greater return. There's a reason, you see the 'flippers' buying and and selling PSA. And, when you look at the prices of high end vintage. The ROI favors PSA and, it honestly isn't as close as the lower grades. I do hope this will change however, because it really doesn't make much sense. A lot about the hobby doesn't make sense. Probably, because most people use emotions before logic.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Good points and fair points for sure. To me, PSA should hire more employees. Scale up to provide similar services as the smaller companies. The fast turnaround and lower prices provide an alternative that I think is good for collectors, and my #1 concern is how collectors are affected. I totally hear you on the pros of going with PSA. And, I don't blame anyone for choosing SGC or PSA.

@ACD1994 9 ай бұрын

@@MidLifeCards Yes, both really fine choices- I am rooting for SGC, though because we both agree competition, is a good thing, which is what Fanatics seems to be going for when it comes to licensing and branding with their products. Would love to see Upper Deck, Bowman, Leaf have a bit of resurgence, too.

@WunderOps 10 ай бұрын

Wonder if the SGC prices will cause a rift with old vs new grades from PSA. I'm watching thinking, "Were those old or new grade PSA?" Went back and watched your interview coverage with the PSA owner. I am concerned about fakes after I saw unauthorized reprints of Walter Payton and Julius Erving RCs on ebay. They could only be distinguished from real visually by their newness, at least in the pictures. They were listed as art cards or reprints, but it felt like somebody might be testing to see what would happen. I read that the makers used an old Topps press and Topps paper. Don't know if that is true, but why hasn't there been an uproar over that issue? Last time I checked, they weren't selling them new anymore, but I worry about fakes in the big picture. I want to hear someone at PSA and/or SGC talk about authenticity.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I totally get it about the old vs new PSA grades. Being an average, I think a lot of it evens out, but I hear what you're saying. Also, while some "old psa grades" were generous, I think many hold up over time. I'm going to continue to monitor this topic/issue.

@RobertLee-wi5kc 9 ай бұрын

YUP psa grades tighter so a 9 psa may compare with some 9 psa but what you need to look at is can you get an sgc to cross over to psa. Not so much. Seems like about 60 % that I have seen. I like the sgc case better but you see so many people complain about missing a 10 at psa and will often say baloney I will send it to sgc.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Fair points. Both have advantages and disadvantages for me.

@mocoblue1 9 ай бұрын

I think ur study means well... but I think ur missing some variables. Like the controversial do grading companies practice pop/surplus controlling methods??? Who knows!!! And sgc just sent a message to "all" grading companies that they're here to compete. I myself personally think that in 10-15 years, collectors will want a Gem Mt grade with any high-regarded company. Keep up the good work, and I'm looking forward to more of ur videos.

@MidLifeCards 8 ай бұрын

Appreciate it, and the question about Pop control is a tough one. Like you said, who knows...but, I wish we did know what was happening behind the curtain.

@g8risgr849 9 ай бұрын

Note to others, play this at 2x speed. Seems big money trusts PSA more than SGC. I buy SGC if I'm looking for a bargain.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Thanks for the feedback.

@KevinKauffman-jf9ex 9 ай бұрын

I just can’t figure out why cards graded authentic/altered command such high prices. Sometimes even selling for more than PSA ones and PSA twos. I just don’t get it, to me, and altered card should so much less than a PSA one.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Some people only care about how the card "looks"... But, I'm with you 100%

@RobertLanning 9 ай бұрын

Im a collector of football cards and prefer raw cards. I dont need a grade to love a card. I have about 75,000 cards in my collection spanning 8 decades. Only 4 are graded

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Sounds like an awesome collection. I LOVE football cards.

@RobertLanning 9 ай бұрын

I'm kind of lost when you talk about pre war baseball. I love them though. Im too much of a set builder to venture into baseball.

@michaelcreeden1560 9 ай бұрын

This is a total subjective take, but I wonder if some of the differences may have to do with which type of holder the collector likes the card in better from a card style/color standpoint. For example, take the 61 Bob Gibson. Played for the Cardinals, perhaps collectors favor PSA on some level because of the "color match" aspect to the slab. The 71 Ryan favored SGC....it's a black card, and looks sharp with the black "tux slab." Obviously you can't crunch data on that idea, but just an interesting nugget to chew on!

@ACD1994 9 ай бұрын

Interesting observation. I've heard of some people who like color matches on the card...haven't thought about it for, matching the slab too, but I suppose it's not out of the realm of possibility. Hmm.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

I thought about that as well. I know that a lot of the prewar cards are especially popular in SGC because of what you mentioned. It would be interesting to know if certain years and/or color backgrounds were affected by it.

@snakeonia7542 9 ай бұрын

I think you’re mostly chasing ghosts. Essentially all cards graded 6 or less switch to an eye appeal/seller rating/shipping fee/ timing game. Without a doubt every RC in your list is drastically affected by the psa registry. But alas continue the grind and appreciate the content.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

Casper says "thanks"... LOL. I think those are all fair comments. But, I still think it's interesting to discuss, and yes, I completely agree about the eye appeal scale being the most important one.

@A.K.1978 10 ай бұрын

How long is it on for?

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

How long is what on for? The reduced price from SGC? It's permanent.

@s.macintosh-jc9rf 10 ай бұрын

Hi Graig, I was so happy about the SGC change in price for grading but this is huge! I don’t think that PSA is threatened but I only care that this is a wonderful change for the consumer. I just happen to be a SGC person but I have a lot of PSA slabs because I can’t afford to cross over my PSA slabs. Thanks for the Friday information and hope that you have a wonderful weekend! Peter

@A.K.1978 10 ай бұрын

Ok. Ty

@nicksorbello6224 10 ай бұрын

@@s.macintosh-jc9rf If the slab doesn't make a difference to you, why not sell your PSA and buy the cards back in SGC at a reduced price?

@cscottriffle 9 ай бұрын

Short answer…. Hell no!!!

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

LOL. I like strong opinions.

@el4174 8 ай бұрын

I got the entire GPK 1st series SGC graded about 15 years ago...$4 per card. It was the only complete set on their registry before they removed that service. No point...just saying.

@MidLifeCards 8 ай бұрын

Interesting. I collect what I like and I like GPK, so I'll always be picking some up from time to time.

@adgsports7744 9 ай бұрын

SGC cares about the hobby they should pass out psa in a year or so people fed up with inconsistency and turn over time.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

SGC is really doing a great job of putting collectors over profits. I think they're really making strong connections with collectors in the market.

@thehobbyist1 9 ай бұрын

I don't collect either...I collect CGC. Lol! #TheHobbyist

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

More reason why I love how we have so many options. More options is good for all of us.

@sunny8784 8 ай бұрын

its nothing to catch up to JMHO. people are putting too much value into grading card companies. What we should be looking for is which one grades more strict and more consistent, thats what should define total value. PSA was bottom of the barrel way back when and BGS was at the top. Consumers drive the market, but collectors should know not to chase the slab, but chase the quality of the card. For example, i had a Jeter CGS slab, graded 9. card MIGHT grade a 9 with SGC, but will grade a 9 with PSA and possibly a 9.5 with BGS. People need to start looking at the cards and stop checking resale and making a slab hold value over the card. That alone is ruining the hobby. Same with breakers (killing the hobby). Sooner or later things will level out, and all those people who paid twice the amount for the very same card that was slabbed with SGC will be scratching their heads LOL

@MidLifeCards 8 ай бұрын

I agree that we give too much value to the opinion of the graders. And I also agree that breakers are a disaster for the hobby. Too many people get burned and turned off.

@sunny8784 8 ай бұрын

@MidLifeCards agreed they get burned, but more importantly they are the reason for the outrageous cost on most of these hobby boxes. 15 years ago, what box of cards cost 1500 dollars? What box would even cost 499 dollars? I'm well off and I'm not going to spend 500 dollars on a box of cards. Imagine what a kid can afford? 150 to 200 a box I get it..but 500? Gtfo...and the only way it becomes affordable is with breaks. It turned into a massive scam which unintentionally major card brands are supporting it. Breakers need to go away, and the top card manufacturers can make it stop, but instead they are greedy and want to sell a box of cards for 500 to 1500 dollars. It's disgusting and absolutely ruining the hobby.

@wildwest1306 9 ай бұрын

Nope. PSA still way ahead in value and user base. It’s like 10 to 1 ratio in numbers.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

About half of the cards issued to PSA each month are TCG. No doubt that PSA is having more submissions of sports cards, this was an analysis of recent sales in the same grades.

@scentualobsessions 3 ай бұрын

Dude you look like Stock Moe

@MidLifeCards 3 ай бұрын

LOL. Most people say I look like Joe from impractical jokers.

@marcthesilvershark 10 ай бұрын

Probably a bad idea comparing your data to polling data🤣

@MidLifeCards 10 ай бұрын

Fair point. LOL.

@jasonfuller2734 9 ай бұрын

I do not buy PSA cards nor do I submit to them. I think their grades are far to inconsistent and their value is way overhyped. I will buy all other cards before PSA 9/10s. Why? Because of all of these KZfaq channels cracking SGC, HGA, CGC and BGS 9/9.5/10s for PSA 10s. And I don’t need to get my shine on with a best set in PSAs registry especially when I don’t trust the bulk of grades in said registry. PSA cards aren’t worth more on the secondary market because of quality. It’s because “collectors” wanted easy 10s and now they are so heavily invested they will denigrate all other companies. PSA is trash, keep your 10s.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

LOL. I sure appreciate passionate opinions, and your opinion is certainly passionate. I definitely respect your opinion for sure.

@mannyramirez9152 9 ай бұрын

SGC ALL THE WAY!!! Go look at a 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan in PSA 6 and SGC 6. SGC IS A MUCH NICER LOOKING CARD. PSA and BGS 6 have bad corner and edge issues. You get a MUCH NICER card from SGC than the other two. I cant stand PSA. Cant wait until they are out of the #1 spot. Bunch of Drunk reviewers or population controllers at PSA that charge more for a higher grade. GTFO!! SGC BABY!!!!

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

LOL. I love the passion you have for your grading company. :-)

@mannyramirez9152 9 ай бұрын

@@MidLifeCardshere is the best part: I DON’T GRADE MY CARDS. I’m a collector sitting on raw cards. The 1986 fleer set that i own is all raw. Same with the 87-91 basketball cards I own. Grading is good if you’re a flipper or wanting an investment with an ROI. Jordan’s 86 needs to be graded if bought today due to the amount of fakes out there. But beware, people are selling fake PSA & SGC slabs of that card. I’ve encountered one of each on eBay in the last month. Very sad. Do your homework. Scammers are everywhere and steal from you without using a gun today

@jerrelbean 9 ай бұрын

I bought a 74 seaver sgc 8 for $142 and the same card on the same day was $168 for PSA. The sgc was a better card. I go with sgc as much as I can.

@MidLifeCards 9 ай бұрын

More bang for your buck most of the time.

@vintagesportscardfinds964 6 ай бұрын

Since the middle of 2020 SGC has been eating PSAs lunch and has taken their lunch money. PSA closed for months in 2020 and now they say they cannot get cards back in less than 3 or 4 months because they don't have enough vintage graders? What? You are a friggin grading company, so-called, how do you not have enough people on staff? Shame on PSA for being taken to the woodshed so badly when it comes to customer service.

@MidLifeCards 6 ай бұрын

Hopefully SGC's success forces PSA to step up their game. Competition is good for the consumer.