Draft grading framework
A closer assessment of condition.
This is the current framework in development. The final grading procedure and detailed grade criteria have not been announced, and cards are not yet being accepted.
The assessment behind the number
The planned approach is human assessment, supported by recorded observations. Before launch, the process needs repeatable checks and documented grade criteria. Bitcoin can check the recorded result; it cannot establish that the judgment is correct.
A 10-point scale
The draft framework uses a 1 to 10 scale with half-point steps and four separate subgrades. Detailed criteria for each grade and the way the overall assessment is determined are still being finalised.
Four aspects of condition
The current framework records centering, edges, corners and surface. The descriptions below explain the areas under consideration.
- Centering
- How evenly the print is positioned on the card.
- Corners
- Sharpness and condition of all four corners.
- Edges
- Condition of the card's edges (smoothness, no whitening).
- Surface
- Print quality and surface condition (no scratches, dents, or print lines).
Identifying the card
Consistent names, set details and rarity information connect the physical label to the digital record.
On the label and in the certificate
The label presents the essential card information in a compact format. The digital certificate provides room for the fuller record. Label layout and holder construction are still being developed.
Card names
We use the official English name where one has been published. Otherwise, we use a recognized romanization, identified as such. Where a name cannot be confirmed, the original script is retained.
Original-language details
For cards without an official English release, the original-language name is retained alongside the English or romanized name in the record.
Set and rarity
Rarity follows the issuing game's terminology. A compact abbreviation may appear on the label, with the fuller description in the certificate. We do not treat different games' rarity systems as interchangeable.
The record behind the grade
The serial, card identity, grade and four subgrades are hashed and included in a batch anchored to Bitcoin. The proof can reveal changes to those fields. Card photos are displayed with the certificate but are not part of this hash.
How verification works