Centering
We measure border ratios on both axes three times per side. The least favourable ratio determines the grade.
Collectibles Grading & Verification Lab’s standard
A grade you canunderstand.
We assess your trading card’s condition systematically. Front and back are examined separately, findings are documented and the results are combined under our in-house H1 standard.
Submit cards for gradingFour categories.
A complete picture.
Every assessment examines the same four features. A high-quality surface does not simply compensate for a damaged edge.
Corners
All corners are checked for shape, wear, whitening and damage, on both front and back.
Edges
We examine the edge profile, chipping, visible wear and material loss around the card.
Surface
Surface and print quality are systematically examined under changing light. Scratches, marks and structural damage are documented.
How the grade is calculated
The weaker side matters.
Front and back
We determine eight individual scores: four for the front and four for the back. Each category uses the lower of its two scores.
No hidden upgrades
The four category scores produce a mean. The final grade may be no more than half a point above the weakest category. It is then rounded down to the nearest half point.
Damage limits the grade
A confirmed dent, crease or loss of material may impose an additional cap. The damage is recorded with its location and a photo.
Subgrades are
always included.
Every CGVL assessment includes the overall grade and all eight subgrades. Your card’s strengths and weaknesses are visible directly on the label and in the digital report.
Centering, corners, edges and surface are shown separately for front and back, so you can understand how the final grade is formed.
View services and volume pricesDocumentation beyond a number.
Verify identity
Game, set, card number, language and variant are checked before grading. Unclear details are resolved first.
Record findings
Photos and justified subgrades make the condition traceable. An independent second grade confirms the result.
Link the report
A unique CGVL ID links the card to its published report. The QR code on the label leads directly to it.
What to know before submitting.
Is H1 a PSA, BGS or CGC standard?
No. H1 is Collectibles Grading & Verification Lab’s own in-house standard. Other providers may assign different grades; an identical grade elsewhere is not guaranteed.
What does a grade of 10 mean?
Under H1, a 10 requires all eight individual scores to be 10, with no additional restriction or damage cap applying.
What happens if a finding is unclear?
If identity, authenticity or a measurement is unclear, grading is paused first. Cards outside the accepted format do not receive a regular final grade.
When is a grade considered certified?
A certified grade is sealed and linked to the public report via the CGVL ID. Examples on this website are samples, not customer cards.
Damage caps under H1
H1 rule version: H1-1.0-2026-09-15
| Dent | 6.0 |
|---|---|
| Fold | 5.0 |
| Crease | 4.0 |
| Multiple creases | 3.0 |
| Tear | 2.0 |
| Severe material loss | 1.0 |