Grading Standards & Policies

1. Introduction
This policy explains the grading standards and procedures used by God Tier Grading Ltd (“GTG”, “we”, “us”, “our”) when evaluating collectible cards.
This policy forms part of our Terms and Conditions and applies to all cards submitted to GTG.

2. Nature of Grading
Card grading is a professional opinion of condition based on inspection of the card at the time of evaluation.
Grades assigned by GTG reflect our assessment according to our grading methodology and standards.
Grading is inherently subjective and outcomes may vary between grading companies.
A GTG grade does not constitute a guarantee of value, authenticity, or future condition.

3. Grading Methodology
GTG evaluates cards using defined condition criteria that may include factors such as:
centering
corners
edges
surface condition
print quality
structural integrity
Cards are examined using appropriate inspection methods and equipment to assess condition and detect visible issues.
GTG reserves the right to update or refine grading methodologies as technology, research, or industry practices evolve.
GTG may utilise machine-assisted imaging and analytical technology as part of the evaluation process.

4. Grading Scale
GTG grades cards using its proprietary grading scale.
Grades represent the overall condition of a card based on the defined grading criteria used by GTG.
Further details of the grading scale and grade definitions are published separately within the GTG grading scale documentation.

5. Authenticity and Alterations
As part of the grading process, GTG performs a reasonable inspection to identify signs of:
counterfeiting
restoration
trimming
recolouring
surface alterations
other modifications
While reasonable care is taken during this process, no grading service can guarantee detection of all alterations or counterfeit items.
Where alterations or authenticity concerns are identified, cards may:
receive a qualifier or notation
be returned ungraded
be declined for encapsulation

6. Encapsulation
Cards graded by GTG may be sealed within a protective holder (“slab”).
Encapsulation is intended to:
preserve the card
protect the assigned grade
prevent direct handling of the card
Encapsulation does not guarantee permanent protection against environmental damage, deterioration, or physical impact.
Opening or tampering with a slab invalidates the associated certification.

7. Regrading and Resubmissions
Customers may choose to resubmit cards previously graded by GTG or other grading companies.
Each submission is evaluated independently according to GTG’s grading standards at the time of grading.
Previous grades assigned by GTG or other grading companies do not guarantee identical outcomes on resubmission.

8. Grading Labels and Certification
Each graded card is assigned a unique certification record associated with the graded item.
Certification details may include:
card identification
assigned grade
submission reference information
Certification records may be maintained within GTG’s internal systems or online verification tools.

9. Limitations of Grading
GTG grading represents an assessment of the card at the time of inspection only.
GTG does not guarantee:
future card condition
protection against deterioration
future grading outcomes
market value or investment performance
Grading results should not be interpreted as financial advice or valuation guarantees.

10. Policy Updates
GTG reserves the right to update grading standards, grading scales, or evaluation procedures as technology, research, and industry practices develop.
The most current grading standards will always be published on the GTG website.