Last Updated: 06/07/2026
1. Our Philosophy
We aim to grade every trading card fairly, consistently and conservatively. Card grading is inherently subjective, and reasonable differences of opinion may exist between collectors, retailers and grading companies. This guide explains how we assess card condition and should be read alongside our Terms of Service and Returns & Refund Policy.
2. Our Grading Standard
Unless otherwise stated, Emperor Cards grades cards using standards broadly aligned with recognised industry guidance, including Cardmarket. These standards are used as guidance rather than strict rules and may evolve as industry practice develops.
3. Manufacturing Imperfections
Many cards leave the factory with minor imperfections. These may include slight off-centering, print lines, roller marks, tiny edge whitening, minor surface scratches visible under strong lighting, foil curling or other production characteristics. Such features do not automatically reduce a card below Near Mint and are not generally considered faults.
4. Condition Categories
Mint (M): Virtually flawless and typically only used where we are confident the card shows no meaningful signs of handling.
Near Mint (NM): Very minor imperfections only. Cards suitable for most collections and often suitable for grading, although we never guarantee grading outcomes.
Excellent (EX): Light signs of play or handling such as minor edge wear, light surface marks or small imperfections.
Good (GD): Noticeable wear including whitening, scratches or moderate play wear while remaining fully playable.
Played (PL): Heavy wear, creasing, dents or significant cosmetic damage but still generally identifiable and, where applicable, playable.
Poor (PR): Significant damage such as heavy creasing, water damage, tears, writing or other major defects.
5. Graded Cards
The numerical grade shown on a graded card is the opinion of the independent grading company, not Emperor Cards. We do not guarantee future regrades, crossover results or resale values. Minor cosmetic wear to grading holders may occur during handling or transit.
6. Product Images
Lower-value listings may use representative stock images. Higher-value cards commonly include photographs of the actual item for sale. Where photographs of the actual item are provided, they form part of the product description and customers are encouraged to review them carefully.
7. Vintage & Older Cards
Vintage cards may naturally display age-related wear consistent with their age. Expectations should be adjusted accordingly, particularly for products released many years ago.
8. Foil Cards
Foil cards may exhibit print lines, curling or other manufacturing characteristics that are common within the hobby. These characteristics alone do not necessarily indicate a card is faulty.
9. If You Disagree With Our Assessment
If you believe a card has been materially misdescribed, please contact us promptly. We may request photographs before authorising a return. Once the card has been received back, we will inspect it fairly and determine whether a refund or other appropriate remedy is due in accordance with our Returns & Refund Policy.
10. Counterfeit & Altered Cards
We take authenticity seriously and do not knowingly sell counterfeit or altered cards. If an authenticity concern is raised, we will investigate it thoroughly and work with the customer to achieve a fair resolution where appropriate.