Raw vs Graded Cards: Which Is Better for Long-Term Value?

Raw vs Graded Cards: Which Is Better for Long-Term Value?

Getting Started: Why It Matters

Whether you're buying raw sports cards straight from packs or investing in slabbed, PSA-graded gems—understanding the pros and cons of each approach is crucial. With the sports card market booming, grading has become a key factor in card value. At Cross Collections, we’re here to help you make informed decisions, protect your investment, and grow a valuable card collection.

Step 1: Understand the Difference Between Raw and Graded

Raw cards are ungraded cards in their original condition—usually pulled directly from packs or purchased from sellers. Graded cards have been authenticated and scored by third-party grading companies like PSA, BGS, SGC, or CGC, then sealed in a tamper-proof slab with a numeric grade (1–10).

Ask Yourself:

  • Do I want to buy low with raw cards and grade them myself?
  • Do I prefer the security and resale value of already-graded cards?
  • Am I collecting for personal value, or for long-term investment?

Step 2: Why Graded Cards Often Have More Value

When it comes to investing in trading cards, graded cards usually carry higher resale value and lower buyer risk. Here’s why:

  • Guaranteed condition: A PSA 10 or BGS 9.5+ confirms a card is mint or gem mint.
  • Trusted resale value: Graded cards are easier to sell on platforms like eBay or Goldin.
  • Market tracking: Tools like Card Ladder and Market Movers track graded card prices over time.
  • Authentication: Avoid scams and counterfeits with third-party verification.

Want to protect your cards before grading? Cross Collections offers penny sleeves, top loaders, and card cases to keep your collection mint.

Step 3: When Raw Cards Make More Sense

That said, raw sports cards come with unique advantages, especially if you're savvy about grading and player potential:

  • Lower entry cost: Great for new collectors or bulk buyers.
  • Grading arbitrage: Buy raw, grade high, and flip for profit.
  • More selection: Easier to find sets, rookies, and star players at affordable prices.
  • Perfect for set building: Organize and collect large quantities easily.

Step 4: Get the Right Supplies

Whether you’re collecting raw or graded, proper storage matters. Essential supplies include:

  • Penny Sleeves: Protect raw cards from scratches and dust.
  • Top Loaders: Offer rigid protection for valuable cards.
  • Card Storage Boxes: Great for bulk storage and inventory.
  • Slab Cases: Protect your graded cards from cracks and UV exposure.

Shop high-quality card supplies at Cross Collections to safeguard your investments.

Step 5: Should You Grade Your Raw Cards?

Grading can multiply a card’s value—but not every card is worth it. Consider grading if your card is:

  • A rookie card or star player
  • A short print, numbered, or parallel variant
  • In gem mint condition with sharp corners and clean surfaces

Top grading companies include:

  • PSA: Best resale value, widely trusted
  • BGS: Subgrades and black labels add detail
  • SGC: Gaining traction for vintage cards
  • CGC: Popular for TCG and modern collectors

Step 6: Combine Both for the Best ROI

The smartest collectors use both strategies:

  1. Buy raw cards in excellent condition
  2. Grade only those with high potential (PSA 9 or 10)
  3. Sell or hold graded cards for long-term gains

This approach maximizes value and reduces risk—perfect for investors looking to build a high-performing collection.

Final Thoughts

So—raw vs graded cards? It depends on your goals:

  • Buy graded cards if you want guaranteed value and easy resale.
  • Buy raw cards if you want to grade yourself or collect more affordably.

At Cross Collections, we offer everything you need to succeed in the hobby—from raw sports cards and graded singles to the best card supplies for protecting your investments.