So you’ve got a comic you’re proud of. Maybe it’s a modern variant you grabbed at cover price, or a classic from your childhood that’s still looking sharp. Either way, you’re now wondering when to grade comics, and when it’s better to just bag it, board it, and move on.
You’re not alone. Every collector hits this point. And if you’re not careful, you’ll end up grading a $30 book and spending $60 just to prove it’s… still a $30 book. (Ask me how I know.)
This guide will walk you through exactly when grading makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to actually do it without regretting it later.
Why Grade Comics at All?
Let’s keep this short since we covered it in Comic Book Grading Scales Explained:
- Preserves the condition long-term
- Authenticates and locks in value
- Boosts resale (especially for key issues)
- Protects signatures (CBCS can verify even after the fact)
But, grading isn’t free. And not every comic is worth it.
When Not to Grade a Comic
Let’s just get this out of the way:
- It’s worth less than $100 (raw)
- It’s sentimental, not valuable
- You plan to read or handle it regularly
- It’s a reprint or facsimile edition
When to Grade Comics: Key Moments That Make It Worthwhile
If any of these apply, grading might be worth it:
- Key Issue: First appearances, origin stories, milestone events
- Modern Variant: Low print runs or exclusive retailer editions
- High-Value Book: Anything selling raw for $200+
- Autographs: Especially if not witnessed (CBCS offers verification)
- Investment Potential: You’re planning to flip or keep it as an asset
Pressing and Cleaning: Worth It Before Grading?
Pressing is a process where a comic is gently heated and flattened to remove small creases, spine rolls, or dents. Cleaning removes surface dirt or fingerprints.
When to Press and Clean:
- If your comic has visible bends, ripples, or handling wear but no major defects
- If you’re aiming for a 9.6 or 9.8 and want to increase your odds
When to Skip:
- If the comic is low-value or already has color breaks
- If you’re unsure and don’t want to risk it (use pros only!)
A good press can mean the difference between a $200 and $500 grade. But a bad one? Well, goodbye corners.
How to Submit Your Comic for Grading
Alright, so you’re going for it. Here’s the quick version:
1. Inspect Your Comic Use clean hands, bright lighting, and check for:
- Spine ticks
- Surface wear
- Corners and edges
Use a flashlight and tilt the comic slowly. You’ll spot imperfections that normal lighting hides.
2. Store Flat & Bagged Use Mylar and acid-free board, store it flat in a short box until submission.
3. Choose Your Grading Company We covered this here, but short version:
- CGC = resale king
- CBCS = good with signatures
- PGX = budget but mixed reputation
4. Create Account & Fill Out Online Form Specify tier (value) and services (pressing, fast track, signature verification).
5. Pack and Ship Use rigid packaging. Insure the shipment.
Case Study: Two Comics, Two Outcomes
Comic A: Edge of Spider-Verse #2 (1st Spider-Gwen).
- Raw value: US$675
- Graded 9.8: US$1,150 resale
- Worth grading? Absolutely. Check the latest price at comicspriceguide.com.
Comic B: Venom 26 (2018). The Comic Mint (TCM) Exclusive Peach Momoko Variant Limited to 3000
- Raw value: US$60
- Graded 9.8: US$135 resale
- Worth grading? Still ok if you bought it at cover price when it came out, same as I did. However, someone I know bought it at around the current raw value. After grading, it is just the raw value + grading cost. He’s praying it will go higher.
Know what you’re sending in. Know when to grade comics, not every shiny cover is a goldmine.
How Much Does Grading Cost?
Prices vary, but here’s a ballpark:
- Grading Fee: $24–$40 per comic
- Fast Track: +$15–$20 (optional)
- Pressing/Cleaning: +$15–$30 (optional)
- Shipping/Insurance: Varies, often $20–$40 round trip
That means one book could cost $50–$100 total. Submit in batches to save on shipping. Group by value tier.
FAQs: Comic Grading Submissions
Q: Can I grade any comic I want?
A: Yes, but that doesn’t mean you should.
Q: What’s the turnaround time?
A: CGC standard tier is 4–8 weeks. Fast track cuts it in half.
Q: Can I undo grading?
A: Technically yes, you can crack the slab. But do it carefully, or you’ll damage the comic. But why would you want to do that?
Q: Will grading guarantee a higher sale price?
A: Not always. It depends on grade, demand, and timing.
Q: Is it worth grading 90s comics?
A: Only if it’s a high-grade key issue or rare variant.
Q: Should I press my comic myself?
A: Unless you’re experienced, best leave it to professionals. You don’t want to bake your book by accident.
Q: Do slabs last forever?
A: Slabs are durable, but not indestructible. Avoid drops, sunlight, and extreme temps.
Final Thoughts
When to grade comics? Do it when the comic deserves the treatment, not just because it looks nice in a slab. Focus on key issues, rare books, and comics with upside.
And remember, once it’s graded, it’s sealed. No take-backs. So inspect wisely.
