A PSA Grader Answers Your BIGGEST Questions

The host addresses 17 questions about PSA (Professional Sports Authenticators) grading operations based on information from an anonymous appraiser source. Key operational details include: work is assigned from different sections/shelves in a room with varying workloads, beginners handle bulk of lower-level grades in a pyramid structure, and managers control work distribution. Regarding quality control, the source confirms PSA maintains an internal database of previously graded cards by serial number used during re-evaluations. On potential issues, the appraiser acknowledges rumors of card replacement and recommends customers photograph cards before submission as a best practice. Evaluators reportedly rarely review the notes section that submitters fill out. The grading process appears subject to concentration lapses when handling multiple identical cards (called "blackout"), and crossovers are handled by a single person, making them potentially unreliable. The source indicates grading standards differ significantly between vintage and modern cards, with unwritten guidelines for defects not fully described in public standards. A notable claim suggests cards submitted through premium services receive harsher evaluation than those in standard services, potentially creating perverse incentives. The appraiser confirms existing ratings and crossover percentages influence evaluator positioning and that high grades must be supported with detailed conclusions. The host also references an earlier controversy involving cards being changed from nines to tens, directing viewers to PSA's official statement on the matter.