Authentication confirms a card (or autograph) is genuine, without assigning a condition grade — useful for signed items or when you only need to prove it's real. Grading includes authentication and assigns a numeric condition score (typically 1–10) based on corners, edges, surface, and centering. A graded slab therefore tells buyers both that the card is real and how good its condition is, which is why graded cards usually carry the strongest, most standardized value. "Authentic only" labels appear when a card is genuine but can't receive a normal grade (for example, it was trimmed or altered). For most valuable cards, full grading provides the most buyer confidence.
Updated Jul 13, 2026