The TNT Grading Scale Explained
Total transparency is our standard. Our 1–10 scale provides collectors with a definitive measure of quality, precision, and long-term value for every card submitted.
The TNT 1–10 Grading Scale
Our professional standards ensure every card is evaluated with absolute precision, providing collectors with a transparent roadmap to value.
Level 10: Pristine / Gem Mint
Flawless centering, sharp corners, and a surface free of any visible defects under 10x magnification. The absolute peak of condition.
Special 9.5: Near Pristine
A premium grade for cards that fall just short of the 10, often due to a single minor centering or surface micro-flaw. Highly coveted.
Level 9: Mint
A superb condition card with only one minor flaw, such as a partial corner touch or faint surface wear only visible upon inspection.
Levels 7–8: Near Mint / EX-Mint
High-end appearance with slight surface wear or soft corners. Edges remain clean with minimal white showing.
Levels 4–6: VG-EX / Excellent
Moderate surface wear, rounded corners, or centering issues. No major structural damage present.
Levels 1–3: Poor / Good
Visible aging, including substantial wear, heavy creases, or rounded corners. Structural integrity is maintained.
Grading FAQ
What makes TNT different?
We combine high-precision diagnostic tools with expert human oversight for a faster, more transparent turnaround.
Is centering weighed heavily?
Yes. Centering must be within strict percentage ratios to qualify for our Gem Mint and Pristine grades.
The 9.5 Standard
The TNT Grading LLC 9.5 ‘Very Near Pristine’ status is a hallmark of elite quality, reserved for cards that exhibit breathtaking visual appeal. Our expert graders apply a rigorous, multi-point evaluation of the four key pillars: centering, corners, edges, and surface. For inquiries contact submissions@tntgrades.com to learn more about our forensic verification process to rule out fakes, trimming, or any forms of tampering. Achieving a 9.5 signifies a secure investment-grade asset that has withstood our most intensive professional scrutiny, providing collectors with absolute confidence in its authenticity and superior condition.
- Centering: Precision measurement of border ratios. Corners: Evaluation for microscopic fraying or touches. Edges: Scrutiny for chipping or silvering under magnification. Surface: Inspection for scratches, print lines, and original gloss. Authentication: Rigorous checks against fakes or alterations.
Grading Support & Advice
Understanding the TNT Explosive 10 Grade
The Explosive Gem Mint 10 represents absolute perfection and is extremely rare, awarded to only a tiny percentage of submissions. Reserved for entirely flawless cards across all sub-grades, it is our most prestigious and difficult achievement to obtain.
What defines the Special 9.5 Category
The 9.5 tier is an elite classification for cards boasting incredible eye appeal. This status is reserved for items that present nearly perfectly but possess a single, microscopic flaw preventing the Explosive 10 grade.
Our Official Turnaround Tiers
We provide three specific turnaround options: Standard (20–30 days), Express (10–15 days), and Premium (3–5 days). Contact submissions@tntgrades.com for questions regarding quality control and technical expertise.
Are the card holders UV protected
Every card we encapsulate is protected by a high-grade, sonic-welded holder featuring advanced UV-resistant technology. These custom slabs ensure your assets remain safe from light-induced fading and physical wear.