Collectors and dealers in the world of autographed cards can now rejoice as CGC Cards™ and James Spence Authentication® (JSA®) have joined forces to offer a streamlined experience for submitting cards for authentication and grading. This partnership covers a wide range of cards, including trading card games (TCGs), sports cards, and non-sports cards, making it easier for enthusiasts to verify the authenticity of their prized possessions.
Certified Collectibles Group® (CCG®) revealed the launch of this collaboration just ahead of the National Sports Card Convention scheduled from July 24-28. As of July 15, 2024, CGC Cards and JSA started offering this integrated service, allowing collectors to submit autographed cards for JSA authentication and CGC Cards grading and encapsulation in a single, straightforward process.
Expanding on the success of CGC x JSA certification for comics introduced in May, CCG has taken a further step by acquiring JSA earlier in the year to broaden its autograph authentication services. The future plans include extending the combined authentication and grading services to magazines, pulps, and concert posters, catering to a diverse range of collectibles.
In anticipation of the National Sports Card Convention, CGC x JSA certification services for cards will be available to collectors at the event. Apart from the option of regular submissions at the show or through the mail, CGC Cards will provide comprehensive on-site services, allowing collectors and dealers to have their cards authenticated, graded, and encapsulated on the spot for a hassle-free experience.
Having been a pioneer in witnessed signature authentication through CGC Signature Series for comics since 2001, CGC is now gearing up for the full-fledged launch of CGC Signature Series for cards. This move will offer autograph collectors a comprehensive suite of services, blending the expertise of CGC and JSA to ensure the authenticity of signed cards.
Established in 2005 by James Spence, Jr., JSA stands out as a leading autograph authentication service, recognized for its meticulous processes. With nearly 1 million images in the world’s largest autograph database, JSA utilizes cutting-edge technology and a vast resource pool to guarantee accurate authentication services for collectors and dealers alike.
Autographed cards that receive certification from CGC and JSA will bear a unique CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label. This label, featuring both brand names and a prominent “Authentic Autograph” designation in yellow, a color traditionally associated with genuine signatures by CGC, ensures the authenticity of the autograph. Upon request, cards can also undergo autograph grading, with the grade prominently displayed on the label alongside the card’s grade and description. Furthermore, cards encapsulated with the CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label will include CGC Cards Grader Notes, offering detailed insights about the signers.
For top-tier cards deserving special recognition, CGC Cards presents the prestigious gold CGC x JSA Pristine 10 label, reserved exclusively for cards that achieve a perfect CGC Pristine 10 grade.
Steven R. Eichenbaum, CEO of CCG, emphasized the significance of this partnership, remarking on the synergies between their world-class grading services and JSA’s expert autograph authentication services. James J. Spence, Jr., President of JSA, expressed his excitement around the launch of combined services for cards at The National, fulfilling a demand that has been present among collectors for nearly two decades.
To learn more about the submission process for CGC x JSA certification, collectors can visit the CGC Cards website and utilize the online submission form. By selecting “JSA Autograph Authentication” after choosing the desired grading tier, collectors can kickstart the process. The pricing for JSA autograph authentication is determined based on the selected grading tier, with additional CGC Cards grading fees applicable as per the chosen services.
With a shared commitment to providing collectors with top-notch services and meticulous attention to detail, CGC and JSA are set to elevate the collecting experience for enthusiasts worldwide. This new offering marks a substantial milestone in the collectibles industry, promising to set a new standard for authenticity and grading services in the world of autographed cards.
