How MGC Measures Centering: A Deep Dive into Card Grading Standards

At MGC, we pride ourselves on offering top-tier grading services for trading cards. One of the most crucial aspects of our grading process is measuring the centering of a card. Perfect centering is vital as it significantly impacts the card's overall aesthetic and value. In this article, we'll explore how centering is measured, the industry standards, and the advanced technology MGC uses to ensure precise evaluations.

The Importance of Centering in Card Grading

Centering refers to the alignment of a card’s front and back images within its borders. Ideally, the design should be perfectly centered, with equal margins on all sides. However, due to manufacturing variances, we use a sub scale to determine the which centering qualifies as an MGC 10.

Industry Standard for Perfect Centering: The 55/45 to 60/40 Rule

The industry standard for centering, recognized by leading grading companies, is defined by specific ratios:

• Front of the Card: The centering must be approximately 55/45 to 60/40 or better. This means that the borders on the front of the card should be within 55% to 45% or 60% to 40% of the total width or height of the card. For instance, if the left border is 55% of the total border width and the right border is 45%, it falls within the acceptable range for a gem mint MGC 10 grade.
• Back of the Card: unlike other grading companies we believe the back of the card should be treated the same way the front of the card is graded. So maintain the same guidelines.

These standards ensure consistency and fairness in evaluations across all major grading companies.

How MGC Measures Centering

At MGC, we utilize technology to measure centering with unparalleled precision. Here's a breakdown of our process:

1. High-Resolution Imaging

We start by capturing high-resolution images of each card using fujitsu scanners purposely built for scanning card images. These images allow us to closely examine the card's borders, design elements and measure the centering.

2. Human Verification

While technology plays a crucial role, our expert graders also visually inspect each card. This dual approach ensures that any anomalies or errors are caught, maintaining the highest level of accuracy.

3. Consistency Checks

To ensure consistency, we regularly calibrate our equipment and cross-check results against known standards. This meticulous approach guarantees that every card graded by MGC meets the same rigorous criteria.

Why Choose MGC for Your Card Grading Needs?

Choosing MGC means entrusting your cards to a team dedicated to precision and fairness. Our investment in cutting-edge technology and commitment to industry standards ensures that you receive an accurate and reliable grade for your cherished collectibles.

Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the hobby, understanding the importance of centering and the methods used to measure it can enhance your appreciation of the grading process. At MGC, we're here to provide you with the best possible service, ensuring your cards are evaluated with the utmost care and expertise.

Conclusion

Centering is a critical component of card grading, and the 55/45 (or 60/40) rules provide clear standards for what constitutes perfect centering. At MGC, we use a combination of high-resolution imaging and expert human verification to ensure the highest accuracy in our grading process. Trust MGC to deliver precise and reliable grading for all your trading cards.

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