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Behind the Cards

PSA Grading Controversy: Stricter Standards Spark Debate

Card grading giant PSA recently updated its website, igniting a debate within the hobby that continues to fuel controversy.

PSA recently amended its website, tightening front centering requirements for PSA 10 Gem Mint grades from 60/40 to 55/45 (meaning the image can now be off-centre by no more than 55% on one side). It is further speculated that cards graded as PSA 9 (Mint) or PSA 8 (Near Mint) may also face stricter grading requirements, though specific details are less clear. PSA graded over 15.34 million cards in 2024, solidifying its dominance with an estimated 78% market share in the card grading industry, far outpacing competitors like CGC, SGC, and Beckett.

This means that older slabs may not align with the new grading outcomes, potentially devaluing previously graded cards, sparking much debate amongst those heavily invested in PSA-graded cards. With so much money at stake, the general consensus amongst collectors and traders appears to be that PSA should have issued a statement when making a change of such magnitude, as opposed to simply updating their website.

With such dominance in card grading, PSA carries a heavy responsibility to uphold transparency and consistency, safeguarding the vast sums collectors have invested in PSA-graded cards.

Product Watch

Popular Products: Global Price Trends and Changes

Featured on Graph Above (average price per hobby box):

• Panini Prizm Premier League 2019/20 — No 30-day data available

• Panini Prizm Premier League 2020/21 — £149 (+10%)

• Panini Prizm Premier League 2021/22 — £103 (-12%)

• Panini Prizm Premier League 2022/23 — £117 (-37%)

• Panini Prizm Premier League 2023/24 — £189 (0%)

  (figures in brackets indicate last sale change %)

Featured on Graph Above (average price per hobby box):

• Panini Select Premier League 2022/23 — £238 (+24%)

• Panini Select FIFA 2022/23 — No 30-day data available

• Panini Select Premier League 2023/24 — £208 (+22%)

• Panini Select FIFA 2023/24 — £400 (-8%)

  (figures in brackets indicate last sale change %)

Platform Breakdown

Topps FC Barcelona 125th Anniversary!

The Topps FC Barcelona 125th Anniversary set was officially released on Friday, February 28, 2025.

The set includes 125 base cards, and the impressive autograph checklist is a who’s who of past and present stars. Big autograph chasers include a Lionel Messi autograph relic book card and the Tiki Taka five auto book card signed by Messi, Xavi, Iniesta, Busquets, and Guardiola. The collection also offers relic cards with pieces from the Camp Nou, such as stadium seats and goal nets, and memorabilia such as match-worn jersey pieces.

Each hobby box contains 48 cards across 6 packs, and includes one autograph, one autograph relic or relic, and two numbered parallels.

The hobby box was priced at £165 on the Topps website but has since sold out, and is now reselling on the secondary market for approximately £210.

Card Watch

Kylian Mbappé: The Rookie Who Set the Standard

Kylian Mbappé, now 26, has moved beyond his ‘hot rookie' phase, a title currently held by Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal, yet his early cards remain highly sought after in the hobby.

After last week’s focus on Yamal, Mbappé market analysis was the natural next step for ND Soccer Capital’s Card Watch section. Let’s not forget Mbappé’s 2017-18 Topps Chrome UEFA Champions League Superfractor—his lost rookie—is yet to surface, and remains one of the most coveted sports cards across all categories. For my Mbappé analysis, I have chosen cards from his World Cup-winning 2017/18 season, from budget-friendly options to higher-end investments.

Below, I’ve used Card Ladder data to showcase a range of options that highlight the potential value available to collectors across all budgets.

PS: If you decide to sign up for Card Ladder using my affiliate link, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me continue to provide valuable content through ND Soccer Capital. Thank you!

As Mbappé continues to chase legendary status at Real Madrid to solidify his place among the all-time football greats, now could be the opportune moment to capitalise on his rookie cards, which are likely to appreciate in value as his legacy grows.

All data courtesy of Card Ladder—Why not discover how Card Ladder can enhance your card collecting experience?

You’ve Pulled!

A celebration of recent big card pulls!

Congratulations to @tomkcards & @task38official for hitting these awesome cards!

If anyone pulls anything big please feel free to hit me up on Instagram! @ndsoccercapital

As I conclude the second issue of ND Soccer Capital, I hope you found the insights into Kylian Mbappé's market value informative and engaging. Stay tuned for future updates on emerging trends and the most valuable cards to watch in the dynamic world of football collecting.

• Explore More: Dive deeper into the world of football cards in my upcoming issues — Who Am I?

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Disclaimer: ND Soccer Capital provides information and opinions about sports card investing for educational purposes only. We are not financial advisors, and our content should not be considered investment advice. Investing in sports cards carries substantial risk of loss and may not be suitable for everyone. The value of cards can fluctuate significantly based on various factors, including player performance, market trends, and condition. Any investment decisions you make are solely your responsibility. ND Soccer Capital, its owners, employees, and affiliates shall not be held liable for any losses, damages, or legal issues arising from your investment choices. Always conduct your own research and consider seeking advice from a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.