Best Pokémon cards to grade
Ranked by expected profit per submission — every grade outcome weighted by how often the card actually receives it in the PSA population — after current grading fees. The PSA 10 best case is on every row, but it no longer decides the order: a card that gems one time in twenty is not a better bet than one that gems one time in three. Top pick: Cresselia at an expected +$85,391.
What makes a card worth grading
The table below applies one formula to CardTrack's catalogue, but the same four questions work on any card, including ones outside our top 100:
1. Is the price gap big enough? The PSA 10 (or 9) value has to clear the raw price and the grading fee with real room to spare — a card whose graded price barely covers the cost of submitting it has no margin for a lower-than-hoped grade.
2. Is there enough population to trust a gem rate? A rate built on a handful of graded copies is closer to a guess than a measurement — CardTrack requires at least 10 graded copies before ranking a card by expected profit at all, and flags the confidence band on every row that qualifies.
3. Does the card actually gem often enough? A high PSA 10 price on a card that rarely gems is not a better bet than a lower price on a card that gems reliably — that is the entire reason this page ranks by expected profit rather than best case.
4. Is the specific copy actually clean? None of the above says anything about the card in your hand — a population's gem rate describes other people's submissions, not yours. Check centering, corners, edges and surface with the AI card grader or the centering calculator before you submit.
Categories that tend to be worth grading
A few broad groups are the usual candidates: vintage holos (Base Set and early WOTC-era cards, where age itself commands a premium once slabbed); modern chase cards (Special Illustration Rares, alt arts and other high-demand pulls from recent sets); and 1st edition and low-print promos (scarce by print run rather than by age). Measured across the 4,565 cards in the index, the raw-to-PSA-10 gap is widest in the Classic (2004–2010) era, where the median PSA 10 sells for 53.0× raw, and narrowest in the Current (2020–) era at 10.0×. None of that is a guarantee for any single card — a beat-up copy from a good category is still a beat-up copy — but it's a reasonable place to start filtering the table by era or price above.
How to use the table
The default order is expected profit, which is the honest one. Switch the sort to best case only if you want to see the PSA 10 jackpots regardless of how often they happen, to gem rate if you care more about certainty than size, or to expected ROI if you are comparing a cheap card against a dear one and want the return per dollar tied up. The raw-price band is the most useful filter: set it to what you are willing to spend, and the era and set filters narrow the list to cards you can actually find. For one card at your own odds, the grading ROI calculator runs the same formula with the inputs exposed.
Every row carries the same five numbers — raw price, PSA 9 and PSA 10 prices, the grading cost for the ten, and the gem rate with its sample from the PSA population report — plus a one-line reason for its position. Read the sample before the gem rate: a 40% rate on 12 graded copies is a coin toss dressed up as a statistic, and the confidence label says so. The minimum-graded-copies filter removes those rows in one step.
Across the whole population of 4,565 cards with a raw price of $5 or more that clear the fee at a PSA 10, 4,484 have a measurable gem rate, and 2,990 (67% of those) come out ahead once every grade is weighted by how often it happens. By era, the positive-expected-value cards are led by Modern (2011–2019) with 1,101, then Classic (2004–2010) with 855, then Vintage (1999–2003) with 742. The difference between the first figure and the last is the gap between "could pay" and "is expected to pay" — the PSA 10 premium index measures the first, the gem rate supplies the second — and it is the reason the page ranks the way it does.
Ranked by expected profit100
| # | Card | Raw | PSA 9 | PSA 10 | Cost | Best case | Gem rate | Expected | Sample |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  CresseliaGreat Encounters #2 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$85,391 per submission: 17.9% of 252 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($484,500), and a PSA 9 ($1,500) still clears the $9,886 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $22 | $1,500 | $484,500 | $9,864 | +$474,614 | 17.9% | +$85,391 | 252 high |
| 2 |  Treecko ☆Team Rocket Returns #109 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$62,457 per submission: 3.9% of 1,375 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($504,000), and a PSA 9 ($201,600) still clears the $13,709 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,650 | $201,600 | $504,000 | $10,059 | +$490,291 | 3.9% | +$62,457 | 1,375 high |
| 3 |  Mudkip ☆Team Rocket Returns #107 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$47,628 per submission: 3% of 1,388 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($1,020,000), and a PSA 9 ($78,611) still clears the $22,719 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $7,500 | $78,611 | $1,020,000 | $15,219 | +$997,281 | 3% | +$47,628 | 1,388 high |
| 4 |  CharizardSkyridge #146 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$40,780 per submission: 14.6% of 1,701 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($239,000), and a PSA 9 ($45,000) still clears the $15,509 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $8,100 | $45,000 | $239,000 | $7,409 | +$223,491 | 14.6% | +$40,780 | 1,701 high |
| 5 |  Umbreon ☆POP Series 5 #17 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$27,819 per submission: 6.4% of 831 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($216,000), and a PSA 9 ($60,000) still clears the $14,617 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $7,438 | $60,000 | $216,000 | $7,179 | +$201,383 | 6.4% | +$27,819 | 831 high |
| 6 |  Pikachu ☆Holon Phantoms #104 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$27,625 per submission: 4.4% of 2,681 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($480,000), and a PSA 9 ($32,330) still clears the $17,063 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $7,244 | $32,330 | $480,000 | $9,819 | +$462,937 | 4.4% | +$27,625 | 2,681 high |
| 7 |  GengarSkyridge #H9 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$25,596 per submission: 6% of 1,655 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($336,000), and a PSA 9 ($36,100) still clears the $13,279 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $4,900 | $36,100 | $336,000 | $8,379 | +$322,721 | 6% | +$25,596 | 1,655 high |
| 8 |  Rayquaza ☆Deoxys #107 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$23,709 per submission: 2.5% of 1,872 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($365,750), and a PSA 9 ($108,000) still clears the $28,677 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $20,000 | $108,000 | $365,750 | $8,677 | +$337,074 | 2.5% | +$23,709 | 1,872 high |
| 9 |  Mewtwo ☆Holon Phantoms #103 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$17,859 per submission: 5.4% of 2,364 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($262,500), and a PSA 9 ($24,850) still clears the $11,894 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $4,250 | $24,850 | $262,500 | $7,644 | +$250,606 | 5.4% | +$17,859 | 2,364 high |
| 10 |  Torchic ☆Team Rocket Returns #108 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$17,268 per submission: 1.3% of 1,463 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($64,261), and a PSA 9 ($123,200) still clears the $13,317 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $9,655 | $123,200 | $64,261 | $3,662 | +$50,945 | 1.3% | +$17,268 | 1,463 high |
| 11 |  CelebiSkyridge #145 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$17,170 per submission: 18.6% of 1,166 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($90,000), and a PSA 9 ($10,800) still clears the $6,919 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,000 | $10,800 | $90,000 | $3,919 | +$83,081 | 18.6% | +$17,170 | 1,166 high |
| 12 |  LugiaAquapolis #149 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$17,164 per submission: 4% of 3,413 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($336,000), and a PSA 9 ($31,410) still clears the $15,090 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $6,711 | $31,410 | $336,000 | $8,379 | +$320,910 | 4% | +$17,164 | 3,413 high |
| 13 |  Espeon ☆POP Series 5 #16 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$16,909 per submission: 6.9% of 840 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($204,000), and a PSA 9 ($31,800) still clears the $17,270 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $10,211 | $31,800 | $204,000 | $7,059 | +$186,730 | 6.9% | +$16,909 | 840 high |
| 14 |  UmbreonSkyridge #H30 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$15,900 per submission: 7.9% of 1,640 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($180,000), and a PSA 9 ($15,500) still clears the $10,819 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $4,000 | $15,500 | $180,000 | $6,819 | +$169,181 | 7.9% | +$15,900 | 1,640 high |
| 15 |  Garchomp LV.XMajestic Dawn #97 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$15,228 per submission: 1.7% of 418 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($900,000), and a PSA 9 ($4,000) still clears the $15,819 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,800 | $4,000 | $900,000 | $14,019 | +$884,181 | 1.7% | +$15,228 | 418 high |
| 16 |  RayquazaPOP Series 1 #3 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$14,285 per submission: 10.1% of 148 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($132,000), and a PSA 9 ($4,370) still clears the $6,614 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $275 | $4,370 | $132,000 | $6,339 | +$125,386 | 10.1% | +$14,285 | 148 high |
| 17 |  Gliscor LV.XLegends Awakened #141 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$12,386 per submission: 3.8% of 366 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($312,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,785) still clears the $8,256 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $117 | $2,785 | $312,000 | $8,139 | +$303,744 | 3.8% | +$12,386 | 366 high |
| 18 |  Charizard ☆ δDragon Frontiers #100 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$12,315 per submission: 1.9% of 5,161 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($475,000), and a PSA 9 ($50,080) still clears the $19,868 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $10,099 | $50,080 | $475,000 | $9,769 | +$455,132 | 1.9% | +$12,315 | 5,161 high |
| 19 |  Ho-ohSkyridge #149 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$11,560 per submission: 7.9% of 1,362 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($120,000), and a PSA 9 ($18,000) still clears the $9,719 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,500 | $18,000 | $120,000 | $6,219 | +$110,281 | 7.9% | +$11,560 | 1,362 high |
| 20 |  PikachuPoké Card Creator Pack #5 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$11,305 per submission: 3.3% of 367 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($154,999), and a PSA 9 ($19,800) still clears the $7,049 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $480 | $19,800 | $154,999 | $6,569 | +$147,950 | 3.3% | +$11,305 | 367 high |
| 21 |  Mew ☆ δDragon Frontiers #101 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$11,282 per submission: 1.9% of 3,753 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($391,782), and a PSA 9 ($21,300) still clears the $12,766 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,829 | $21,300 | $391,782 | $8,937 | +$379,016 | 1.9% | +$11,282 | 3,753 high |
| 22 |  KyogreCall of Legends #SL6 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$10,431 per submission: 2.5% of 954 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($312,000), and a PSA 9 ($14,000) still clears the $8,623 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $484 | $14,000 | $312,000 | $8,139 | +$303,377 | 2.5% | +$10,431 | 954 high |
| 23 |  Raikou ☆Unseen Forces #114 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$10,118 per submission: 9.6% of 4,018 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($96,000), and a PSA 9 ($5,265) still clears the $5,679 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,700 | $5,265 | $96,000 | $3,979 | +$90,321 | 9.6% | +$10,118 | 4,018 high |
| 24 |  KabutopsSkyridge #150 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$9,861 per submission: 15.3% of 1,457 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($60,000), and a PSA 9 ($5,762) still clears the $4,618 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $999 | $5,762 | $60,000 | $3,619 | +$55,382 | 15.3% | +$9,861 | 1,457 high |
| 25 |  Rocket's Snorlax exTeam Rocket Returns #104 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$9,536 per submission: 6.8% of 1,610 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($114,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,306) still clears the $7,214 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,055 | $9,306 | $114,000 | $6,159 | +$106,786 | 6.8% | +$9,536 | 1,610 high |
| 26 |  GyaradosSkyridge #H10 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$9,413 per submission: 10.8% of 1,264 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($78,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,000) still clears the $5,464 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,665 | $7,000 | $78,000 | $3,799 | +$72,536 | 10.8% | +$9,413 | 1,264 high |
| 27 |  MewtwoExpedition Base Set #20 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$8,998 per submission: 3.2% of 1,927 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($216,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,300) still clears the $7,592 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $413 | $9,300 | $216,000 | $7,179 | +$208,408 | 3.2% | +$8,998 | 1,927 high |
| 28 |  Mewtwo LV.XLegends Awakened #144 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$8,957 per submission: 2.8% of 643 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($264,000), and a PSA 9 ($11,500) still clears the $7,952 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $293 | $11,500 | $264,000 | $7,659 | +$256,048 | 2.8% | +$8,957 | 643 high |
| 29 |  LucarioCall of Legends #14 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$8,953 per submission: 7.7% of 168 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($45,600), and a PSA 9 ($18,240) still clears the $2,509 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $34 | $18,240 | $45,600 | $2,475 | +$43,091 | 7.7% | +$8,953 | 168 high |
| 30 |  KyogreXY Black Star Promos #XY51 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$8,099 per submission: 8.6% of 81 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($96,000), and a PSA 9 ($475) still clears the $4,029 you have in it. Confidence medium on that sample. | $50 | $475 | $96,000 | $3,979 | +$91,971 | 8.6% | +$8,099 | 81 medium |
| 31 |  GengarExpedition Base Set #13 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$8,016 per submission: 3.3% of 2,512 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($180,000), and a PSA 9 ($15,000) still clears the $8,119 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,300 | $15,000 | $180,000 | $6,819 | +$171,881 | 3.3% | +$8,016 | 2,512 high |
| 32 |  MewHolon Phantoms #111 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$7,962 per submission: 4.8% of 935 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($156,000), and a PSA 9 ($3,000) still clears the $6,992 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $413 | $3,000 | $156,000 | $6,579 | +$149,008 | 4.8% | +$7,962 | 935 high |
| 33 |  Rayquaza CSupreme Victors #8 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$7,780 per submission: 9.1% of 831 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($82,680), and a PSA 9 ($2,300) still clears the $3,965 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $119 | $2,300 | $82,680 | $3,846 | +$78,716 | 9.1% | +$7,780 | 831 high |
| 34 |  Kyogre ☆Delta Species #112 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$7,678 per submission: 4.2% of 1,728 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($149,830), and a PSA 9 ($15,600) still clears the $9,502 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $2,985 | $15,600 | $149,830 | $6,517 | +$140,328 | 4.2% | +$7,678 | 1,728 high |
| 35 |  RayquazaDragons Exalted #128 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$7,553 per submission: 2.8% of 1,162 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($188,062), and a PSA 9 ($8,000) still clears the $8,000 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,100 | $8,000 | $188,062 | $6,900 | +$180,062 | 2.8% | +$7,553 | 1,162 high |
| 36 |  UmbreonAquapolis #H29 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$7,365 per submission: 5.3% of 1,720 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($114,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,820) still clears the $7,377 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,218 | $7,820 | $114,000 | $6,159 | +$106,623 | 5.3% | +$7,365 | 1,720 high |
| 37 |  TorchicPoké Card Creator Pack #3 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$7,172 per submission: 11.3% of 319 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($52,800), and a PSA 9 ($4,362) still clears the $3,947 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $400 | $4,362 | $52,800 | $3,547 | +$48,853 | 11.3% | +$7,172 | 319 high |
| 38 |  ArcanineAquapolis #H2 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$7,026 per submission: 6.4% of 1,135 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($78,000), and a PSA 9 ($10,000) still clears the $4,246 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $447 | $10,000 | $78,000 | $3,799 | +$73,754 | 6.4% | +$7,026 | 1,135 high |
| 39 |  Glaceon LV.XMajestic Dawn #98 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$6,953 per submission: 1.4% of 705 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($456,000), and a PSA 9 ($3,805) still clears the $10,178 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $599 | $3,805 | $456,000 | $9,579 | +$445,822 | 1.4% | +$6,953 | 705 high |
| 40 |  MewExpedition Base Set #19 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$6,780 per submission: 1.4% of 1,945 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($175,297), and a PSA 9 ($30,000) still clears the $7,682 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $910 | $30,000 | $175,297 | $6,772 | +$167,615 | 1.4% | +$6,780 | 1,945 high |
| 41 |  Snorlax LV.XRising Rivals #111 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$6,745 per submission: 2.5% of 988 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($204,000), and a PSA 9 ($15,600) still clears the $9,059 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $2,000 | $15,600 | $204,000 | $7,059 | +$194,941 | 2.5% | +$6,745 | 988 high |
| 42 |  PichuExpedition Base Set #22 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$6,712 per submission: 3.8% of 975 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($144,000), and a PSA 9 ($6,333) still clears the $6,770 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $311 | $6,333 | $144,000 | $6,459 | +$137,230 | 3.8% | +$6,712 | 975 high |
| 43 |  Lugia-EXPlasma Storm #134 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$6,660 per submission: 1% of 2,003 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($660,000), and a PSA 9 ($3,120) still clears the $12,884 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,265 | $3,120 | $660,000 | $11,619 | +$647,116 | 1% | +$6,660 | 2,003 high |
| 44 |  Gyarados ☆ δHolon Phantoms #102 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$6,454 per submission: 1.7% of 2,238 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($80,520), and a PSA 9 ($36,000) still clears the $10,228 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $6,404 | $36,000 | $80,520 | $3,824 | +$70,292 | 1.7% | +$6,454 | 2,238 high |
| 45 |  Rocket's Mewtwo exTeam Rocket Returns #99 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$6,413 per submission: 5.9% of 1,430 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($90,000), and a PSA 9 ($11,000) still clears the $5,869 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,950 | $11,000 | $90,000 | $3,919 | +$84,131 | 5.9% | +$6,413 | 1,430 high |
| 46 |  Groudon ☆Delta Species #111 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$6,130 per submission: 4.2% of 1,754 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($130,050), and a PSA 9 ($7,500) still clears the $8,620 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $2,300 | $7,500 | $130,050 | $6,320 | +$121,431 | 4.2% | +$6,130 | 1,754 high |
| 47 |  CrobatSkyridge #147 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$6,074 per submission: 9.6% of 1,051 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($50,400), and a PSA 9 ($5,000) still clears the $4,417 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $894 | $5,000 | $50,400 | $3,523 | +$45,983 | 9.6% | +$6,074 | 1,051 high |
| 48 |  GolemSkyridge #148 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,989 per submission: 18.4% of 1,402 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($29,360), and a PSA 9 ($6,000) still clears the $3,388 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,075 | $6,000 | $29,360 | $2,313 | +$25,972 | 18.4% | +$5,989 | 1,402 high |
| 49 |  Palkia LV.XGreat Encounters #106 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$5,827 per submission: 3.5% of 375 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($108,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,500) still clears the $6,343 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $244 | $7,500 | $108,000 | $6,099 | +$101,658 | 3.5% | +$5,827 | 375 high |
| 50 |  DeoxysCall of Legends #SL1 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$5,786 per submission: 3% of 831 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($110,100), and a PSA 9 ($10,900) still clears the $6,679 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $559 | $10,900 | $110,100 | $6,120 | +$103,421 | 3% | +$5,786 | 831 high |
| 51 |  PolitoedSkyridge #H23 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,766 per submission: 23.2% of 678 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($24,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,800) still clears the $1,838 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $579 | $2,800 | $24,000 | $1,259 | +$22,162 | 23.2% | +$5,766 | 678 high |
| 52 |  TyranitarAquapolis #H28 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,620 per submission: 8.3% of 1,396 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($60,000), and a PSA 9 ($4,750) still clears the $4,569 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $950 | $4,750 | $60,000 | $3,619 | +$55,431 | 8.3% | +$5,620 | 1,396 high |
| 53 |  ArticunoSkyridge #H3 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,595 per submission: 15.6% of 953 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($34,200), and a PSA 9 ($3,326) still clears the $3,210 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $849 | $3,326 | $34,200 | $2,361 | +$30,990 | 15.6% | +$5,595 | 953 high |
| 54 |  SlowkingAquapolis #H22 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,573 per submission: 7.2% of 754 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($65,000), and a PSA 9 ($4,250) still clears the $4,013 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $344 | $4,250 | $65,000 | $3,669 | +$60,987 | 7.2% | +$5,573 | 754 high |
| 55 |  VictiniNoble Victories #98 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$5,538 per submission: 12.3% of 933 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($43,200), and a PSA 9 ($2,000) still clears the $2,661 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $210 | $2,000 | $43,200 | $2,451 | +$40,539 | 12.3% | +$5,538 | 933 high |
| 56 |  GengarLegendary Collection #11 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,526 per submission: 1.5% of 1,309 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($336,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,100) still clears the $8,579 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $200 | $2,100 | $336,000 | $8,379 | +$327,421 | 1.5% | +$5,526 | 1,309 high |
| 57 |  ArcanineSkyridge #H2 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,388 per submission: 15.4% of 888 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($33,000), and a PSA 9 ($3,240) still clears the $3,038 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $689 | $3,240 | $33,000 | $2,349 | +$29,962 | 15.4% | +$5,388 | 888 high |
| 58 |  RaikouCall of Legends #SL9 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$5,373 per submission: 2.6% of 653 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($117,900), and a PSA 9 ($8,005) still clears the $6,498 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $300 | $8,005 | $117,900 | $6,198 | +$111,402 | 2.6% | +$5,373 | 653 high |
| 59 |  Gengar LV.XArceus #97 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$5,351 per submission: 1.8% of 2,625 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($180,000), and a PSA 9 ($12,360) still clears the $7,644 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $825 | $12,360 | $180,000 | $6,819 | +$172,356 | 1.8% | +$5,351 | 2,625 high |
| 60 |  VaporeonSkyridge #H31 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,346 per submission: 10.2% of 1,124 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($42,500), and a PSA 9 ($4,323) still clears the $3,089 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $645 | $4,323 | $42,500 | $2,444 | +$39,411 | 10.2% | +$5,346 | 1,124 high |
| 61 |  EmpoleonDiamond & Pearl #4 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$5,336 per submission: 2.5% of 284 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($57,600), and a PSA 9 ($23,040) still clears the $3,614 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $19 | $23,040 | $57,600 | $3,595 | +$53,986 | 2.5% | +$5,336 | 284 high |
| 62 |  ZekromBlack & White #114 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$5,296 per submission: 30.6% of 568 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($17,400), and a PSA 9 ($1,045) still clears the $1,312 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $119 | $1,045 | $17,400 | $1,193 | +$16,088 | 30.6% | +$5,296 | 568 high |
| 63 |  PikachuPokémon Rumble #7 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$5,225 per submission: 2.3% of 913 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($55,000), and a PSA 9 ($20,400) still clears the $4,429 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $860 | $20,400 | $55,000 | $3,569 | +$50,571 | 2.3% | +$5,225 | 913 high |
| 64 |  Championship ArenaNintendo Black Star Promos #28 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,208 per submission: 11.4% of 105 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($44,400), and a PSA 9 ($4,000) still clears the $3,147 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $684 | $4,000 | $44,400 | $2,463 | +$41,253 | 11.4% | +$5,208 | 105 high |
| 65 |  Leafeon LV.XMajestic Dawn #99 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$5,180 per submission: 0.8% of 751 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($528,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,900) still clears the $11,329 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,030 | $9,900 | $528,000 | $10,299 | +$516,671 | 0.8% | +$5,180 | 751 high |
| 66 |  AmpharosAquapolis #H1 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,148 per submission: 5.4% of 705 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($90,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,500) still clears the $4,221 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $302 | $2,500 | $90,000 | $3,919 | +$85,779 | 5.4% | +$5,148 | 705 high |
| 67 |  HoundoomSkyridge #H11 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,042 per submission: 6.9% of 1,084 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($66,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,600) still clears the $4,354 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $675 | $2,600 | $66,000 | $3,679 | +$61,646 | 6.9% | +$5,042 | 1,084 high |
| 68 |  MewSouthern Islands #1 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$5,022 per submission: 0.4% of 5,320 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($840,000), and a PSA 9 ($14,059) still clears the $13,887 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $468 | $14,059 | $840,000 | $13,419 | +$826,113 | 0.4% | +$5,022 | 5,320 high |
| 69 |  HoundoomAquapolis #H11 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,963 per submission: 4.3% of 1,366 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($84,000), and a PSA 9 ($11,200) still clears the $5,358 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,499 | $11,200 | $84,000 | $3,859 | +$78,642 | 4.3% | +$4,963 | 1,366 high |
| 70 |  ButterfreeExpedition Base Set #5 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,944 per submission: 2.4% of 806 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($204,000), and a PSA 9 ($1,481) still clears the $7,307 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $248 | $1,481 | $204,000 | $7,059 | +$196,693 | 2.4% | +$4,944 | 806 high |
| 71 |  Alakazam ☆Crystal Guardians #99 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,890 per submission: 3% of 2,762 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($156,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,000) still clears the $8,678 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $2,099 | $7,000 | $156,000 | $6,579 | +$147,322 | 3% | +$4,890 | 2,762 high |
| 72 |  EspeonAquapolis #H9 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,849 per submission: 8.1% of 1,301 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($57,860), and a PSA 9 ($2,640) still clears the $4,360 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $762 | $2,640 | $57,860 | $3,598 | +$53,500 | 8.1% | +$4,849 | 1,301 high |
| 73 |  RaikouSkyridge #H26 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,776 per submission: 17.3% of 910 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($27,600), and a PSA 9 ($2,013) still clears the $2,840 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $545 | $2,013 | $27,600 | $2,295 | +$24,760 | 17.3% | +$4,776 | 910 high |
| 74 |  MewtwoPokémon Rumble #9 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,758 per submission: 3.6% of 716 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($96,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,999) still clears the $4,829 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $850 | $9,999 | $96,000 | $3,979 | +$91,171 | 3.6% | +$4,758 | 716 high |
| 75 |  LugiaSecret Wonders #14 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,672 per submission: 2.3% of 1,134 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($173,828), and a PSA 9 ($6,000) still clears the $7,056 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $299 | $6,000 | $173,828 | $6,757 | +$166,772 | 2.3% | +$4,672 | 1,134 high |
| 76 |  EeveeSun & Moon #101 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$4,605 per submission: 19.5% of 118 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($14,400), and a PSA 9 ($5,760) still clears the $1,182 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $19 | $5,760 | $14,400 | $1,163 | +$13,218 | 19.5% | +$4,605 | 118 high |
| 77 |  Charizard G LV.XSupreme Victors #143 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,545 per submission: 3.7% of 3,192 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($102,000), and a PSA 9 ($6,975) still clears the $6,839 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $800 | $6,975 | $102,000 | $6,039 | +$95,161 | 3.7% | +$4,545 | 3,192 high |
| 78 |  Celebi ☆Crystal Guardians #100 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,534 per submission: 3.9% of 2,636 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($78,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,353) still clears the $5,382 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,583 | $9,353 | $78,000 | $3,799 | +$72,618 | 3.9% | +$4,534 | 2,636 high |
| 79 |  Latias & Latios-GXTeam Up #170 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$4,520 per submission: 39.4% of 6,493 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($15,000), and a PSA 9 ($5,345) still clears the $4,319 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,150 | $5,345 | $15,000 | $1,169 | +$10,681 | 39.4% | +$4,520 | 6,493 high |
| 80 |  Groudon exNintendo Black Star Promos #38 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,501 per submission: 2.5% of 1,547 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($80,000), and a PSA 9 ($19,800) still clears the $3,969 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $150 | $19,800 | $80,000 | $3,819 | +$76,031 | 2.5% | +$4,501 | 1,547 high |
| 81 |  Rayquaza C LV.XSupreme Victors #146 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,429 per submission: 2.8% of 1,595 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($120,000), and a PSA 9 ($6,457) still clears the $6,579 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $360 | $6,457 | $120,000 | $6,219 | +$113,421 | 2.8% | +$4,429 | 1,595 high |
| 82 |  Arceus LV.XArceus #95 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,399 per submission: 3.1% of 703 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($84,000), and a PSA 9 ($8,008) still clears the $3,974 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $115 | $8,008 | $84,000 | $3,859 | +$80,026 | 3.1% | +$4,399 | 703 high |
| 83 |  Rocket's Suicune exTeam Rocket Returns #105 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,370 per submission: 6.9% of 1,191 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($40,000), and a PSA 9 ($9,700) still clears the $3,202 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $783 | $9,700 | $40,000 | $2,419 | +$36,798 | 6.9% | +$4,370 | 1,191 high |
| 84 |  Vaporeon ☆Power Keepers #102 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,298 per submission: 3.7% of 3,009 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($102,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,125) still clears the $8,239 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $2,200 | $7,125 | $102,000 | $6,039 | +$93,761 | 3.7% | +$4,298 | 3,009 high |
| 85 |  Mew exHolon Phantoms #100 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,285 per submission: 3.1% of 1,933 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($84,000), and a PSA 9 ($12,500) still clears the $4,859 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,000 | $12,500 | $84,000 | $3,859 | +$79,141 | 3.1% | +$4,285 | 1,933 high |
| 86 |  Espeon exUnseen Forces #102 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,218 per submission: 2.8% of 1,618 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($96,000), and a PSA 9 ($13,999) still clears the $5,479 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,500 | $13,999 | $96,000 | $3,979 | +$90,521 | 2.8% | +$4,218 | 1,618 high |
| 87 |  Entei ☆Unseen Forces #113 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,202 per submission: 7.3% of 4,092 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($34,800), and a PSA 9 ($5,380) still clears the $3,428 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,061 | $5,380 | $34,800 | $2,367 | +$31,372 | 7.3% | +$4,202 | 4,092 high |
| 88 |  Umbreon exUnseen Forces #112 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,185 per submission: 2.5% of 1,864 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($67,101), and a PSA 9 ($13,000) still clears the $4,985 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,295 | $13,000 | $67,101 | $3,690 | +$62,116 | 2.5% | +$4,185 | 1,864 high |
| 89 |  Charizard exFireRed & LeafGreen #105 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,172 per submission: 6.4% of 3,687 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($45,655), and a PSA 9 ($9,700) still clears the $3,976 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,500 | $9,700 | $45,655 | $2,476 | +$41,679 | 6.4% | +$4,172 | 3,687 high |
| 90 |  DragoniteExpedition Base Set #9 · Vintage (1999–2003)Expected +$4,122 per submission: 1.5% of 2,403 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($55,200), and a PSA 9 ($19,000) still clears the $4,501 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $930 | $19,000 | $55,200 | $3,571 | +$50,699 | 1.5% | +$4,122 | 2,403 high |
| 91 |  GengarHS—Triumphant #94 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,099 per submission: 4.4% of 3,659 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($63,000), and a PSA 9 ($6,908) still clears the $4,850 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,201 | $6,908 | $63,000 | $3,649 | +$58,150 | 4.4% | +$4,099 | 3,659 high |
| 92 |  Surfing PikachuRising Rivals #114 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,091 per submission: 1.8% of 660 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($168,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,900) still clears the $6,954 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $255 | $7,900 | $168,000 | $6,699 | +$161,046 | 1.8% | +$4,091 | 660 high |
| 93 |  Gengar exFireRed & LeafGreen #108 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$4,066 per submission: 3.1% of 3,364 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($135,100), and a PSA 9 ($14,080) still clears the $10,270 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $3,900 | $14,080 | $135,100 | $6,370 | +$124,830 | 3.1% | +$4,066 | 3,364 high |
| 94 |  DittoBoundaries Crossed #108 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$4,060 per submission: 16.9% of 71 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($20,400), and a PSA 9 ($3,670) still clears the $1,288 you have in it. Confidence medium on that sample. | $65 | $3,670 | $20,400 | $1,223 | +$19,112 | 16.9% | +$4,060 | 71 medium |
| 95 |  Rayquaza ex δDragon Frontiers #97 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$3,969 per submission: 4.6% of 1,383 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($78,000), and a PSA 9 ($3,200) still clears the $4,212 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $413 | $3,200 | $78,000 | $3,799 | +$73,788 | 4.6% | +$3,969 | 1,383 high |
| 96 |  LugiaHGSS Black Star Promos #HGSS02 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$3,926 per submission: 3.3% of 552 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($114,000), and a PSA 9 ($2,749) still clears the $6,309 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $150 | $2,749 | $114,000 | $6,159 | +$107,691 | 3.3% | +$3,926 | 552 high |
| 97 |  Rayquaza exDeoxys #102 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$3,910 per submission: 3% of 1,371 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($85,000), and a PSA 9 ($7,500) still clears the $4,669 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $800 | $7,500 | $85,000 | $3,869 | +$80,331 | 3% | +$3,910 | 1,371 high |
| 98 |  CharizardPlasma Storm #136 · Modern (2011–2019)Expected +$3,880 per submission: 2.5% of 3,111 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($108,000), and a PSA 9 ($6,900) still clears the $7,266 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $1,167 | $6,900 | $108,000 | $6,099 | +$100,734 | 2.5% | +$3,880 | 3,111 high |
| 99 |  Cresselia LV.XGreat Encounters #103 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$3,859 per submission: 4.4% of 869 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($84,000), and a PSA 9 ($1,350) still clears the $3,910 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $51 | $1,350 | $84,000 | $3,859 | +$80,090 | 4.4% | +$3,859 | 869 high |
| 100 |  PikachuRising Rivals #112 · Classic (2004–2010)Expected +$3,843 per submission: 1.5% of 749 graded copies came back PSA 10 ($192,000), and a PSA 9 ($8,450) still clears the $7,298 you have in it. Confidence high on that sample. | $359 | $8,450 | $192,000 | $6,939 | +$184,702 | 1.5% | +$3,843 | 749 high |
How the ranking works — and where it can mislead
Expected profit = (gem rate × PSA 10) + (PSA 9 rate × PSA 9) + (sub-9 rate × the card's own sub-9 prices) − raw price − grading cost. Best case is the PSA 10 leg alone. Grading cost is the PSA tier fee for the graded value plus roughly $20 round-trip shipping, at fees as of 2026-09-26; the paused PSA Value tier is excluded and membership is not included.
Population selection bias. Gem rates are the share of the graded population at PSA 10 (PSA population report; CGC's when PSA has fewer than 10 copies). That population is self-selected: collectors grade their cleanest copies, and near misses get cracked and resubmitted, so it overstates what a random raw copy would achieve. Read a gem rate as an upper bound, and read it against its sample — confidence is high from 100, medium from 30, low from 10 graded copies; under 10, the card is shown as best-case only rather than ranked.
Prices. Raw is CardTrack's blended near-mint price for the exact printing; PSA 9 and PSA 10 come from the card's graded price ladder, with a PSA 9 estimated at 0.4× the 10 when the ladder has no 9. Where the ladder has no price for a lower grade, that leg is valued at raw. None of this is a sold price for your copy — it is a model of what the market has paid, and grading outcomes are not guaranteed.
PSA isn't the only option. This table's figures are all PSA, since PSA 10s typically carry the strongest resale premium for Pokémon — but CGC and BGS grade on the same 1–10 scale at different prices per card (PSA from $59.99, CGC from $20, BGS from $79.95), and none of the three requires a paid membership to submit. See the full fee and turnaround comparison before choosing.
PSA grading standards
Centering is the one criterion PSA publishes as a hard number, so it is the only part of a grade you can check yourself before paying. The ratios below are the widest border PSA allows at each grade — a card is judged on its worse axis, and the reverse is graded too. Meeting the centering limit does not earn the grade: corners, edges and surface all still have to hold up.
| Grade | Front | Back | What the card looks like |
|---|---|---|---|
| PSA 10 GEM-MT | 55/45 | 75/25 | Effectively flawless to the naked eye. Four sharp corners, clean edges, full original gloss and no staining. A minor printing flaw can survive if it does not hurt the card's overall look, but wear cannot — this is the grade where centering is tightest and most 10 attempts fail. |
| PSA 9 MINT | 60/40 | 90/10 | Mint to the eye, with one small permitted flaw: a faint surface imperfection, a tiny printing blemish, or slightly off-white borders. Corners and edges still look sharp. The usual difference between a 9 and a 10 is centering or a single point of very light wear. |
| PSA 8 NM-MT | 65/35 | 90/10 | Very light wear that needs looking for. Typically one slightly fuzzy corner, a minor surface mark, or minimally off-white borders. Still presents as a clean card at arm's length. |
| PSA 7 NM | 70/30 | 90/10 | Light wear that is visible without hunting for it — slight fraying at a corner or two, minor surface wear, or a small loss of gloss. No creasing. |
| PSA 6 EX-MT | 80/20 | 90/10 | Obvious but modest handling. Corners show visible rounding, edges show wear, and the surface may have lost some gloss. Colour is still strong and the card is free of creases. |
| PSA 5 EX | 85/15 | 90/10 | Clearly played. Rounded corners, noticeable edge wear and some surface scuffing, with colour beginning to dull. Still whole and presentable. |
| PSA 4 VG-EX | 85/15 | 90/10 | Well handled. Corner rounding is pronounced, surface wear is easy to see, and a very light crease may be present without dropping the card further. |
| PSA 3 VG | 90/10 | 90/10 | Heavy handling. Rounded corners, dulled colour, scuffing or scratching, and light creasing. The card reads as used rather than collected. |
| PSA 2 GOOD | 90/10 | 90/10 | Substantial wear throughout — heavy corner rounding, creasing, surface damage or writing. Intact and identifiable, but plainly worn. |
| PSA 1.5 FR | 90/10 | 90/10 | Severe wear, stopping short of destroyed. Heavy creasing, major surface loss or damage, but the card is complete with no missing pieces. |
| PSA 1 PR | — | — | The floor. Extreme damage — major creasing, staining, tears, missing paper or pieces. Graded so the card can be authenticated and slabbed at all, not because condition is being certified. |
Qualifiers
When a single defect is the only thing holding a card back, PSA can grade it with a qualifier — a slab reading PSA 8 (OC) rather than dropping to a 6. Qualified cards usually trade below an unqualified card of the same number, so the letters matter when you are pricing one.
- OC — Off-Centre: Centering is outside the tolerance for the grade the card would otherwise earn.
- ST — Staining: A stain the card is otherwise clean enough to have avoided.
- PD — Print Defect: A flaw introduced when the card was printed, not by handling.
- OF — Out of Focus: The image itself was printed soft — a manufacturing fault, not wear.
- MK — Marks: Ink or pencil marks on the card.
- MC — Miscut: Cut outside the intended borders at the factory.
Grade criteria and centering tolerances are published by PSA. Summaries here are ours. See the official PSA grading standards for the authoritative text.
Grading FAQ
Which Pokémon cards are worth grading?
The cards whose expected graded value — PSA 10, PSA 9 and lower grades each weighted by how often that card actually receives them — beats the raw price plus the grading fee. Right now that is led by Cresselia (Great Encounters) at an expected +$85,391 per submission.
How is expected grading profit calculated?
Expected value = (gem rate × PSA 10 price) + (PSA 9 rate × PSA 9 price) + (sub-9 rate × the card's own sub-9 prices) − raw price − grading cost. Rates come from the PSA population report (CGC when PSA has fewer than 10 copies); the grading cost is the PSA tier fee for the graded value plus roughly $20 round-trip shipping, at fees as of 2026-09-26.
Why is a card with a huge PSA 10 price not at the top?
Because a PSA 10 price only matters as often as the card gems. A card with fewer than 10 graded copies has no measurable gem rate, so it is listed separately as best-case only rather than ranked above cards with evidence.
Are gem rates reliable?
They are the share of the graded population at PSA 10, and that population is self-selected: people grade their cleanest copies and crack-and-resubmit near misses. Treat the gem rate as an upper bound for a random raw copy, and weight the sample size — the confidence label on each row reflects it.
How much does grading cost right now?
PSA's cheapest bookable tier, Standard, is $59.99 per card for slabs up to $1,000 and quotes 90–100 business days, as of 2026-09-26. Every cost on this page adds round-trip insured shipping — $20 flat plus 1% of the declared value — and looks the tier up on the graded value, so a card whose PSA 10 crosses a tier's cap pays the next tier's fee. The grading cost guide has the full PSA, CGC and BGS tables.