Grey Ogre Games – Card Grading Standards

These standards apply to all trading cards unless otherwise noted.
Grades are assigned conservatively to ensure consistency and customer trust.

 

---

 

Grading Principles

• Edge wear matters — even light whitening can move a card from NM to LP
  
  

• Foils are graded more strictly due to visibility of wear
  
  

• Printing defects are not wear but are still considered in overall appearance
  
  

High-Value Card Policy

For cards above a designated value threshold (example: $50+ NM):

• Grading is especially strict
  
  

• Minor flaws may result in a larger downgrade
  
  

• Additional staff review may be required
  
  

Automatic Downgrades

The following issues automatically reduce condition by at least one tier:

• Any crease or dent
  
  

• Writing, stamps, or signatures
  
  

• Water exposure or staining
  
  

• Excessive warping (including foils)
  

 

 

---

 

Near Mint (NM)

Description: Minimal to no wear from shuffling or play.

• Front/Back: No visible surface scratches, clouding, dirt, or fading
  
  

• Edges/Corners: Clean and sharp; very minor whitening may be acceptable only under close inspection
  
  

• Foils: Mirror-like finish with no visible scuffing or clouding; no warping beyond factory curl
  
  

Summary: Appears pack-fresh or extremely close

Lightly Played (LP)

Description: Minor wear from careful handling or sleeved play.

• Front/Back: Very faint surface scratches or slight dullness
  
  

• Edges/Corners: Small amount of edge whitening or light corner wear
  
  

• Foils: Very light scratches or clouding visible only under direct light
  
  

Summary: Excellent for competitive play; flaws are only noticeable on close inspection.

 

Moderately Played (MP)

Description: Clear signs of play, but still sleeve-legal.

• Front/Back: Visible surface wear, minor grime, or slight fading
  
  

• Edges/Corners: Noticeable whitening on multiple sides; softened corners
  
  

• Structure: Slight bends or creases that break the card stock
  
  

• Foils: Obvious scratches or clouding visible under direct light
  
  

Summary: Clearly used; ideal for budget-conscious players.

Heavily Played (HP)

Description: Significant wear from extensive unsleeved play.

• Front/Back: Major scuffing, heavy whitening, or creasing that does not break the face
  
  

• Edges/Corners: Extensive whitening; rounded or frayed corners
  
  

• Sleeve Playability: Must remain flat enough to not be considered a marked card
  
  

• Foils: Heavy scratching, clouding, or warping
  
  

Summary: Shows heavy use; best suited for casual play.

Damaged (DMG)

Description: Severe defects affecting integrity or legality.

• Examples: Writing/inking, water damage, deep creases, peeling, tears
  
  

• Tournament Legality: Often illegal for sanctioned play due to detectable damage
  
  

Summary: Functionally compromised.

Buylist Payout Guide (Non-Foil Cards)

Exact payout may vary by card demand, rarity, and severity of wear.

Buylist Payout Guide (Foil Cards)

Exact payout may vary by card demand, rarity, and severity of wear.