Gem Mint (PSA 10)
Gem mint (adjective): the top condition grade for a trading card — a virtually flawless example with sharp corners, clean edges, pristine surface, and strong centering. PSA's grade 10 is labeled "Gem Mint"; other companies use similar top-grade language.
Gem Mint in More Detail
Graders evaluate four things: centering, corners, edges, and surface. A gem mint card excels in all four — and the market pays for it, with the 10 often worth several multiples of a 9 of the same card. BGS reserves "Pristine 10" and its Black Label for even stricter standards.
Population matters as much as grade: a 10 that's one of a handful in the pop report is a different asset than a 10 with thousands graded.
FAQ
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA's top grade, labeled Gem Mint — a virtually perfect card under PSA's standards for centering, corners, edges, and surface.
Why is a 10 worth so much more than a 9?
Scarcity — for most cards, far fewer copies grade 10 than 9, and collectors pay a step-change premium for the top of the census.
Related Resources
- Glossary: Graded Card · Pop Report
- Shop: Card Protection Supplies