CardDNA Grading Standards
A transparent framework for evaluating centering, corners, edges and surface while preserving the evidence behind the grade.
Centering
Front and back geometry are evaluated separately using visible design and border references appropriate to the card.
Corners
Each corner is inspected for wear, whitening, rounding, compression and structural defects.
Edges
Edges are reviewed for chipping, roughness, whitening, dents and localized damage.
Surface
Surface analysis considers scratches, indentations, stains, creases, print defects and other disturbances.
Evidence before policy
CardDNA separates captured evidence and measurements from the grading policy applied to that evidence. Reports may include front/back imagery, detail views, centering analysis, subgrades and verification information.
Overall grade
The overall grade reflects CardDNA's grading policy and is not a prediction of the grade another company would assign. CardDNA's premium 10+ Gold Gem Elite designation is reserved for cards meeting CardDNA's highest internal standard.
Transparency
Where practical, the grading record is designed to preserve enough evidence for the collector to understand why the card received its result.