Why a $625,250 Jordan Card Has Two Grades: How to Read Split-Grade Autograph Slabs
A PSA 6 card with a PSA 10 autograph just sold for $625,250. Here is how split grades work, how to read a slab label, and what to check before you bid.
Why Some Cards Carry Two Grades
The Jordan baseball card that sold for $625,250 at Heritage on September 18 was graded PSA 6 for the card and PSA 10 for the autograph. That split is common on signed cards, and it confuses plenty of buyers. Here is how to read it.
Card Grade vs. Autograph Grade
- Card grade: rates centering, corners, edges and surface of the cardboard.
- Autograph grade: rates the signature, including boldness and how cleanly it sits on the card. A 10 means a clean signature, not a perfect card.
- Different scales: a company may use different grading scales for the card and the autograph, so always read the label.
Reading a Slab Label Before You Bid
- Confirm the grading company and the exact grade for each element.
- Check the certification number on the grader's website.
- Look at the high-resolution scans for signature placement and surface wear.
- Compare against recent sales of the same card with the same grades, not the same card with a different grade.
Budget for the Extras
At auction, the hammer price is not the final cost. Add the buyer's premium, shipping, insurance and any taxes. Set a maximum before bidding starts and stick to it.
Do a Reality Check With a Local Shop
An experienced shop owner can walk you through a label, spot red flags and tell you what a card is worth in your area. That is cheaper than a mistake at auction.
Ready to talk grading with someone in person? Use The Card Shop Finder directory to find a card shop near you.