Is the lowest subgrade the overall grade?

Do not calculate an overall grade from the lowest subgrade using this article. Beckett displays four subgrades for centering, corners, edges, and surface, but the overall label should be read as its own assessment rather than calculated from any single subgrade.

Why do subgrades matter when comparing cards?

Subgrades let you compare attribute-level observations between cards of the same identity and printing. They do not guarantee authenticity or a price, so pair them with your own photo review before buying.

Grading Subgrades: Meaning and How to Read Them

Grading subgrades are component scores for individual condition attributes such as centering, corners, edges, and surface.

Published BySuperCatch

Published October 29, 2026

## What Grading Subgrades Are Grading subgrades are component evaluations attached to a card's overall review, breaking condition into individual attributes. Beckett evaluates centering, corners, edges, and surface and displays four subgrades, letting collectors see how the reviewer scored each attribute. PSA evaluates condition including centering as part of its standards. These descriptions come from each service's published criteria and define the condition categories. This article does not supply an overall-grade formula: consult the service's current standards instead of deriving one from the category names. ## What Subgrades Cannot Establish Subgrades describe observations at the time of review, but they cannot predict future condition, guarantee authenticity, or imply a price. A card with even subgrades still requires your own inspection before purchase.…Read more

## Three Things to Check 1. Confirm which attributes the subgrades cover and read the overall label together with them rather than in isolation. 2. Verify the card identity, printing, and any recorded condition match the listing exactly before comparing cards. 3. Request front, back, and detail photos, and question any observation inconsistent with the recorded attributes. When you [browse sports cards](/sports-cards) or [browse trading card games](/trading-card-games), note subgrades separately so comparisons stay organized by attribute.

Frequently Asked Questions

More terms in the Full Glossary.