What Goes Into Grade Preparation?
It's more than a clean. It's a complete card preparation process.
The Card Clinic takes a detailed, methodical approach to preparing cards before they are submitted for professional grading. Our process is designed to give your collection the best possible presentation.
01
Initial Card Inspection
Every card begins with a detailed visual inspection. We examine front and back surfaces, edges, corners, contamination, fingerprints, and print defects.
02
Digital Microscopic Inspection
Our digital microscope allows examination at much greater magnification than the naked eye, identifying small particles and surface contamination.
03
Humidified Card Chamber
We use a controlled, humidified preparation chamber for specialist card handling. This ensures consistent preparation conditions for every submission.
04
Surface Cleaning
We carefully assess and carry out appropriate cleaning. Our focus is on removing contamination while respecting the original characteristics of the card surface.
05
Edge & Corner Inspection
We analyze edges and corners for debris or lifts. Using non-invasive techniques, we can sometimes improve the card profile without any trimming or coloring.
06
Secondary Microscopic Check
Following preparation, the card is inspected again to ensure treatment has been completed appropriately and no removable contamination remains.
07
Final Grading Preparation
The card receives a final inspection covering front, back, surfaces, edges, and corners to ensure the overall presentation is optimized for submission.
08
Protective Packaging
Cards are protected post-prep using card sleeves and semi-rigid holders. Our goal is to ensure the card remains protected until grading return.
The Card Clinic is a specialist preparation and triage service. We focus on identifying issues, removing contamination, and providing the best presentation for your assets. We do not alter cards permanently, nor do we guarantee specific numeric outcomes from third-party grading companies.