Collectors and dealers in the world of autographed cards have something new and exciting to look forward to, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between CGC Cards™ and James Spence Authentication® (JSA®). This collaboration aims to simplify and enhance the experience of submitting autographed cards for authentication and grading, covering a wide range of cards, including trading card games (TCGs), sports cards, and non-sports cards.
The Certified Collectibles Group® (CCG®) unveiled this combined service just in time for the highly anticipated National Sports Card Convention happening from July 24-28. As of July 15, 2024, CGC Cards and JSA are offering an integrated service that allows collectors to submit autographed cards for JSA authentication and CGC Cards grading and encapsulation in one seamless process.
Building upon the success of CGC x JSA certification for comics launched in May, CCG continues to pave the way for innovation in the world of collectibles grading. With almost 100 million items certified since 1987, CCG’s acquisition of JSA earlier this year has opened up new possibilities for autograph authentication. Future services will expand to include combined authentication and grading for magazines, pulps, and concert posters.
For those gearing up for The National, the largest card collecting event of the year, CGC x JSA certification services will be readily available. Apart from accepting submissions at the show and through the mail, CGC Cards will also provide comprehensive on-site services. Collectors and dealers can look forward to having their cards authenticated, graded, and encapsulated on the spot for added convenience.
With the imminent launch of CGC Signature Series for cards, autograph collectors will soon have access to a range of services that combine the expertise of CGC and JSA. CGC, known for pioneering witnessed signature authentication with its CGC Signature Series for comics in 2001, is set to bring the same level of professionalism and authenticity to the world of autographed cards.
JSA, founded by James Spence, Jr. in 2005, has earned a reputation as a premier autograph authentication service. Leveraging the world’s largest autograph database with nearly 1 million images, JSA employs cutting-edge technology to ensure accurate authentication for collectors around the globe.
Autographed cards certified by CGC and JSA will bear a distinct CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label. This label features both brand names and prominently displays the “Authentic Autograph” designation in yellow, a color heritage of CGC that signifies genuine signatures. Additionally, upon request, cards can undergo autograph grading, with the grade showcased on the label alongside the card’s overall 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 high-end cards, CGC Cards presents the exclusive gold CGC x JSA Pristine 10 label, reserved for cards that achieve a CGC Pristine 10 grade, indicating exceptional quality and value.
Steven R. Eichenbaum, CEO of CCG, emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting, “2024 has been a landmark year for CCG, and the collaboration with JSA stands out as a pivotal moment in offering top-tier grading and authentication services.” James J. Spence, Jr., President of JSA, expressed his excitement for the launch of combined services at The National, fulfilling a demand that collectors have voiced for nearly two decades.
Collectors seeking more information on submitting cards for CGC x JSA certification can visit the CGC Cards website. Through the online submission form, collectors can select “JSA Autograph Authentication” after choosing their preferred grading tier. Pricing for JSA autograph authentication is determined by the grading tier selected, with additional CGC Cards grading fees applicable.
CGC and JSA are dedicated to delivering top-notch services to collectors, ensuring that each submission is handled with precision and care. This new offering marks a significant advancement in the collectibles industry, promising to elevate the collecting experience for enthusiasts worldwide.