A "slab" is the sealed, tamper-evident plastic case a card is encapsulated in after being professionally graded — like the holders from PSA, BGS, or CGC. The slab protects the card, displays its assigned grade and a unique certification number, and signals that a third party has authenticated it. "Slabbed" simply means graded and encased, as opposed to "raw" (loose, ungraded). Slabs make cards easier to buy, sell, and trust because condition and authenticity are locked in and verifiable. They also protect the card from handling and environmental damage. If you're buying a slab, you can usually verify its certification number on the grading company's website. Learn more in our grading FAQs.
Updated Jul 13, 2026