Why is my 9.5 a 9?

This is a real question we get from time to time. A customer will get a card back that is an overall grade of 9. The subgrades are 10 centering, 9.5 Corners, 9.0 Edges and 8.5 Surface. If you averaged the 4 subgrades you get 9.25. So why is the overall grade a 9 and not “rounded up” to a 9.5?

The answer is the overall grade is not simply an average of the subgrades. The overall grade is calculated using an algorithm.

What is an algorithm? According to merriam-webster, an algorthim is a procedure for solving a mathematical problem in a finite number of steps that frequently involves repetition of an operation ; broadly : a step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or accomplishing some end especially by a computer.

This basically means that our programmers entered in all the different combinations of grades into our system and when the subgrades are entered in, the overall grade is calculated based on the different grade combinations and values.

There are different values since subgrades do not carry equal weight when calculating the overall grade. Centering and corners weigh more than edges and surface.

Sound complicated? On our end it may be but that’s the magic of computers! Our algorithm ensures consistency in our grading system.

So the next time you get a BGS card and you want to know why the card received the overall grade it did, remember it is not simply an average of the subgrades because not all subgrades are equal.

- Andy Broome, BGS Grading

Have a Question?

Q: I know that a key benefit to using Beckett Grading is the guaranteed turnaround time. With the holidays approaching, how will BGS handle these dates? Is Beckett going to be closed during any of the holidays?

A: You are correct! One of the benefits of submitting your cards to Beckett is the fact that you know when your cards will be shipped back and that is based on the service level you select (see any Beckett Grading Submission Form). The service levels are counted in business days and are guaranteed to ship by your deadline date or your order is free.

During the upcoming holidays, Beckett will be closed Dec 25 and 26 and Jan 1, 2009. Around the holidays, we know that Beckett Grading cards are often given as gifts so we do our best to get cards out as early as possible but will be shipped by your deadline date. We suggest you select a service level and shipping method that will get your cards back in the time required.

The perfect gift for the card collector...

Beckett Grading Services offers you hassle-free shopping for the card collector on your list.

You can now purchase official BGS Grading gift certificates online at the BGS Grading website. Certificates come in $10 denominations!

These certificates are good toward Beckett Grading services.