{"id":141899,"date":"2025-11-20T09:47:07","date_gmt":"2025-11-20T14:47:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/?p=141899"},"modified":"2025-11-20T09:47:11","modified_gmt":"2025-11-20T14:47:11","slug":"how-to-grade-football-stickers-a-collectors-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ripped.topps.com\/uk\/how-to-grade-football-stickers-a-collectors-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Grade Football Stickers: A Collector\u2019s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n

Grading isn\u2019t just for trading cards \u2014 football stickers are finally getting the attention they deserve. From Merlin relics from the late 90\u2019s to the latest Topps releases, collectors everywhere are sending their stickers off to be graded and slabbed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019ve ever wondered how the process works \u2014 and how to know if your sticker is worth grading \u2014 here\u2019s your go-to guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

What Sticker Grading Is (and Why It\u2019s Different from Cards)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Grading is the process of having your sticker inspected, authenticated, and rated by professionals based on condition and quality. The result? A permanent numerical grade (usually on a 1\u201310 scale) and a sealed, tamper-proof case that protects and displays your collectible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Unlike trading cards, stickers are printed on thinner paper and can be much trickier to handle. Centering, surface gloss, and even gum residue can make or break your grade \u2014 which is why careful handling is essential from the moment you open that packet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

The Key Sticker Grading Criteria<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every grading company is different, but uses similar standards, and it\u2019s worth knowing what they look for<\/strong> before you send your stickers in:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Centering<\/strong> \u2014 Check how evenly the sticker\u2019s borders are aligned. Off-centre printing or cuts can knock a grade down quickly.
Corners<\/strong> \u2014 Crisp corners are king. Rounded or frayed corners usually mean handling wear.
Edges<\/strong> \u2014 Look for small tears or nicks, especially on older stickers.
Surface<\/strong> \u2014 The most common culprit for lower grades. Scratches, print dots, or glue marks will show up under a grader\u2019s light.
Back Condition<\/strong> \u2014 If your sticker is unused, make sure the backing is clean and unpeeled. Bends or stains can also affect the overall score.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Source: ACE Grading<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Tips Before You Send Your Football Stickers For Grading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n