If you’re buying or collecting graded comics (also known as slabs), understanding the CGC grading scale is essential.
CGC (Certified Guaranty Company) is one of the most trusted grading companies in the comic industry. Poo Each comic is carefully inspected and assigned a grade based on its condition.
📊 The CGC Grading Scale
CGC grades comics on a scale from 0.5 to 10, with higher numbers representing better condition.
🟦 Gem Mint (10.0)
– Virtually flawless
– No visible defects
🟦 Mint (9.9)
– Nearly perfect
– Extremely rare
🟩 Near Mint/Mint (9.8)
– Almost perfect
– Very minor, nearly invisible flaws
🟩 Near Mint+ (9.6)
– Slight imperfections
– Still very high quality
🟩 Near Mint (9.4)
– Minor defects such as small spine ticks
🟨 Very Fine Range (9.0 – 8.0)
– Noticeable but moderate wear
– Small creases, minor stress marks
🟧 Fine Range (7.5 – 6.0)
– More visible wear
– Creases, spine stress, slight discoloration
🟥 Very Good Range (5.5 – 3.5)
– Significant wear
– Larger creases, small tears possible
🟥 Good Range (3.0 – 1.8)
– Heavy wear
– Tears, folds, and noticeable damage
⬛ Fair (1.0) / Poor (0.5)
– Very heavily damaged
– Missing pieces or major defects
🔍 Why Grading Matters
Grading helps collectors:
– Understand a comic’s true condition
– Compare value across books
– Buy and sell with confidence
Higher grades (like 9.6 – 9.8) are typically the most desirable for collectors and investors.
💡 What Does “Slabbed” Mean?
When a comic is graded by CGC, it is:
– Sealed in a protective case
– Assigned a permanent grade
– Preserved for long-term collecting
These are commonly referred to as “slabs.”
🛒 Buying Graded Comics
At Slabs N Stacks Comics, we regularly stock a range of CGC graded books — from collector favourites to investment pieces.
Whether you’re just starting or expanding your collection, understanding grading helps you make smarter choices.
Build your collection with confidence.
Slabs N Stacks Comics
