When PSA, the renowned grading company long associated with sports cards and collectibles, unveiled its foray into the world of comic and magazine grading, it’s safe to say that the mood was jubilant. Expectations were high as collectors eagerly anticipated the rollout of a slick, efficient model with a promised 20-day grading turnaround for magazines. Yet, much to their collective dismay, the grand reveal has been akin to attending a lavish party only to find out someone forgot the cake.
The initial cheer waned swiftly, replaced by a collective groan as PSA discreetly adjusted their ambitious 20-day turnaround promise to a significantly more lethargic 75 days. Like a surprise shower on a picnic, collectors who had been planning quick flips or who were eager to showcase newly graded magazines must now do the only thing less dynamic than watching paint dry—wait.
In a move to entice the modern and vintage comic aficionado alike, PSA threw in launch pricing that saw submissions (think comics and magazines post-1975 valued under $400) slashed to $25.99, with their vintage counterparts tagged at $39.99. Yet, as collectors do their math, many are questioning if this is value for money given the protracted timeline.
The whispers down the hallway at PSA cite unexpected complications with tariffs and production, the unseen villains in our narrative that have hindered the timely arrival of magazine-sized slabs. These coveted slabs, now a footnote in the grading revolution, are eyeing a tentative September introduction date.
Layered in as well, PSA’s debut offering features a new, albeit niche, pressing service. Enthusiasts can now avail of the pressing at $11.99 for the modern era, and vintage lovers can squeeze it in for $29.99. However, there’s one sticking point: it’s an all-or-nothing commitment. Collectors must press all items in their submission like an all-you-can-eat buffet where you’re tasked with consuming every dish.
Behind the scenes, there’s another nuance that colors this emerging saga—the label design or, shall we say, lack thereof? PSA’s labels, much like that pair of beige slacks gathering dust in your closet, offer little in the way of flair or enthusiasm. The slabs remain restrained to a design playbook that seems outdated compared to the panoramic vibrancy of CGC, PSA’s sparring partner in the grading ring. CGC collectors enjoy the option of dolling up their labels with beloved character artwork, adding an extra layer of visual engagement that makes the graded item more than just a collectible—it’s a showpiece.
In the current comic and collectibles landscape, a CGC slab is like a peacock strutting with unfurling feathers, while PSA’s arrives at the party a little under-dressed. The anesthetic presentation in PSA’s design choices runs the unfortunate risk of losing allure amid the powerful draw of CGC’s visual bravado.
For those collectors who view the aesthetics of a slab as part of the fun, there’s no contest; it’s CGC by a metaphorical mile. PSA, if you’re listening, this is your wake-up call. With the presentation acumen, turnaround options, and overall collector satisfaction that your rival, CGC, commands, a drastic rethink is necessary if there’s any hope of wooing the magazine crowd. A fresh label redesign must surely be on the cards to elevate PSA’s offerings from functional to fabulous.
Ultimately, PSA’s foray into the magazine and comic grading arena underscores a vital lesson—bold promises may ignite initial excitement, but it’s the delivery and aesthetic appeal that determines who claims the crown in the collector kingdom. As things stand, PSA appears to be playing catch-up, and when it comes to the fast-paced world of collecting, playing catch-up often means accepting second place.
