Authenticity

Every card we list is inspected, verified, and documented before it goes live. Here's exactly how.

Graded slabs

Every slab gets its cert number verified through the grader's official database (PSA, BGS, CGC, SGC, TAG, ARS) before listing. We photograph the cert label closeup so you can re-verify yourself by entering the cert number on the grader's site. If the cert doesn't match the card pictured, we don't list it.

Common red flags we check for:

  • Re-cased slabs — case integrity, label placement, and ultrasonic seam.
  • Photoshopped cert labels — we visually compare to known authentic labels of the same era.
  • Card swap inside the case — cross-reference the front photo against the cert lookup result.

Raw singles

We inspect every raw single for:

  • Proxy markers — print dot patterns, registration marks, and font irregularities specific to each game and set era.
  • Reprint indicators — back tone, holofoil pattern, and copyright line variations.
  • Surface restoration — signs of cleaning, edge re-painting, or surface filling under raking light.
  • Counterfeit weight & thickness — we have reference cards for every era and game to compare against.

If we have any doubt about a raw single, we don't list it. We'd rather pass on inventory than damage a buyer's trust.

Sealed product

Sealed product is sourced through verified distribution channels. We inspect every sealed item for:

  • Tampering — outer shrink-wrap integrity, re-wrap signs (different shrink type, asymmetric seal), and corner manipulation.
  • Weight discrepancies — sealed booster boxes have a known weight range. Outside that range = inspected manually and often returned to the source.
  • Date code consistency — print codes match the expected production window for the set.

Photography standard

Every listing has at least 4 photos: front centered, back centered, edge/corner closeup, and a context shot. Slabs include a cert label closeup. Photos are taken in daylight or under 5500K studio lighting against a consistent neutral background. No auto-enhance, no filters, no Photoshop beyond cropping and white-balance correction.

If something's wrong

If you receive a card and have any doubt about its authenticity, email us within 14 days with photos. Full refund plus return shipping, no questions asked. If a third-party grader subsequently confirms the card is counterfeit, we cover the grader's submission cost.