what does blem mean psa

Natashya

2 min read

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24-12-2024

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The world of collectible cards, especially those from the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), is filled with jargon. One term that often pops up, particularly when discussing the value and condition of cards, is "BLEM." But what does BLEM mean in PSA grading? This article will break down this crucial term and help you understand its implications for your card collection.

Understanding PSA Grading

PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) is a leading third-party grading service for trading cards. They assess the condition of cards on a 10-point scale, with 10 being perfect. This grading involves a meticulous examination of various aspects, including:

• Centering: How well the card's image is centered within the borders.
• Corners: The condition of the four corners, looking for sharpness and wear.
• Edges: The condition of the edges of the card, checking for wear and tear.
• Surface: The overall surface of the card, noting any scratches, marks, or imperfections.

A PSA grade reflects the overall condition of the card based on these factors. This grading provides collectors with an objective assessment of a card's value.

Decoding "BLEM" in PSA Grading

BLEM is an abbreviation for blemish. In the context of PSA grading, a BLEM designation doesn't refer to a specific grade level. Instead, it's a supplemental notation added to a card's grade to indicate the presence of a minor imperfection.

These imperfections are typically considered too insignificant to affect the numerical grade, but they are still noteworthy enough for PSA to document. Examples of blemishes might include:

• Minor surface scratches: Very small scratches that don't significantly detract from the card's overall appearance.
• Slight print lines: Minor imperfections in the printing process that are barely noticeable.
• Insignificant whitening: Very small areas of slight discoloration.

Important Note: A BLEM designation doesn't automatically diminish a card's value significantly. While a perfect PSA 10 without a BLEM is highly desirable, a PSA 9 with a BLEM can still be quite valuable, especially if the blemish is truly minor and barely visible.

How Blemishes Impact Value

The impact of a BLEM on a card's value depends on several factors:

• The severity of the blemish: A barely visible scratch will have less impact than a significant crease.
• The overall grade of the card: A BLEM on a PSA 9 will likely have less impact on value than a BLEM on a PSA 7.
• The rarity and desirability of the card: For highly sought-after cards, even minor blemishes can affect the price.

Collectors should carefully examine the images and descriptions provided by sellers when purchasing graded cards with a BLEM designation. Understanding the specific nature and location of the blemish is crucial for assessing its impact on value. PSA provides detailed information on the blemishes noted, ensuring transparency to buyers.

Finding PSA Graded Cards

Websites specializing in trading card sales, such as eBay, offer many PSA-graded cards. Always carefully examine the provided photos and description before making a purchase. Understanding the meaning of BLEM and other grading notations will help you make informed decisions and build a valuable collection.

Conclusion

In summary, BLEM in PSA grading simply means "blemish," signifying a minor imperfection on a card that doesn't alter its numerical grade but is noted for transparency. While a BLEM might slightly affect value, it doesn't always significantly devalue a card, especially if the imperfection is minor and the overall grade is high. By understanding this terminology, you can confidently navigate the world of PSA-graded trading cards.