There’s an electrifying buzz in the world of comic book collectors as PSA, revered predominantly for its authority in sports and trading card grading, is ready to etch its mark on the comic book and magazine grading domain. Galvanized by piercing enthusiasm and possibly a dash of audacity, PSA revealed its game plan this week: a strategic rollout of pricing tiers and estimated timelines, with the official adventure into grading comics beginning July 14.
Unlike a battle of caped crusaders against diabolical villains, PSA’s venture is not about donning a cape, but rather, about doing justice to the artform with meticulous grading services. For those clutching Modern-era treasures from 1975 onwards, the cost of distinction starts at a rather precise $25.99 per item. And, like any good potion, perfection takes time – approximately 20 business days for the grading alchemy to work its magic.
Adding a little shimmer and smoothening out the age-lines, PSA is introducing a pressing service. Ideal for those who believe in looking spick and span, this service starts at an inviting $11.99 for comics and magazines. However, as Colonel Mustard might say with his proverbial candlestick, expect the turnaround times to roughly double, especially at this entry-level tier.
Breaking into an arena predominantly ruled by CGC, which laudably graded all of the top 10 priciest comics that ever changed hands, PSA’s entrance is akin to a spectacular plot twist on the silver screen. Their pricing structure is anything but mundane; strategically set to lure collectors with tiers that either rival or skim below CGC’s prices, it’s a clear letter of intent to inject dynamism into a realm that has, until recently, been enjoying a rather relaxed pace.
PSA’s first dance with comics wasn’t a solo debut in 2024; it was a surreptitious waltz with Marvel at the illustrious San Diego Comic-Con. Against the dazzling backdrop of Comic-Con, PSA unveiled prototype holders as part of an intriguing collaboration with the fashion brand Kith. These limited-edition “Marvel Super Villains” sneakers were not mere footwear—they were accompanied by exclusive comic variants, some gloriously encapsulated by PSA. A particular standout from this serendipitous collaboration was a 1-of-1 Venom-Spider-Man sketch variant, which, in a dramatic reversal of roles, snared a jaw-dropping $30,000 on eBay earlier this year.
Fast-forward to the present, and PSA is visibly cranking the gears of its formidable infrastructure. The comic book world is all eyes and ears, their attention as focused as a magnifying glass in the sun, waiting to see how collectors—guardians of their glossy paged treasure troves—react to this formidable challenger clad in PSA’s esteemed armor.
As PSA ascends to the precipice of this fresh venture, many questions bob charmingly on the horizon. Will collectors embrace this new grading option, especially with PSA’s well-established reputation shadowing each encapsulated comic? Could CGC find themselves dueling with a worthy adversary amidst their long-standing governance? With competitive pricing, strategic timing, and a pressing service to boot, PSA seems prepared for whatever follies, quests, or challenges lie ahead.
Much like the cliffhangers drumming up suspense at the end of each comic book issue, PSA’s entry into the market is not just the beginning of a new chapter—it’s an altogether new storyline. The comic book market eagerly awaits, much like a captivated audience at the edge of their seats, for PSA to turn the page and reveal the new adventures that this entry portends. With the launch date marked and anticipation mounting, PSA’s foray into the comic grading cosmos ensures that while the covers may be encapsulated, the possibilities of what lies inside are endless.
