Collectors and dealers in the world of autographed cards can now rejoice as CGC Cards™ and James Spence Authentication® (JSA®) have joined forces to introduce a groundbreaking service for submitting autographed cards. This innovative partnership covers a wide range of cards, from trading card games and sports cards to non-sports cards, streamlining the authentication and grading process for enthusiasts.
In the lead up to the highly anticipated National Sports Card Convention from July 24-28, the Certified Collectibles Group® (CCG®) made a significant announcement. Effective July 15, 2024, CGC Cards and JSA are offering an integrated service that allows collectors to submit autographed cards for JSA authentication and CGC Cards grading and encapsulation in one seamless process.
This collaboration follows the successful launch of CGC x JSA certification for comics in May. With CCG’s acquisition of JSA earlier this year, expanding its autograph authentication services, this new combined service sets the stage for future offerings, including authentication and grading for magazines, pulps, and concert posters.
Coinciding with the National Sports Card Convention, the CGC x JSA certification services for cards will be available at the event. Offering both regular submissions and on-site services, collectors and dealers can now have their cards authenticated, graded, and encapsulated in real-time, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Having pioneered witnessed signature authentication through the CGC Signature Series for comics in 2001, CGC is now gearing up for the full launch of the CGC Signature Series for cards. This comprehensive suite of services combines the expertise of CGC and JSA, catering to autograph collectors’ needs with efficiency and precision.
Established in 2005 by James Spence, Jr., JSA has earned the reputation of being the premier autograph authentication service globally. With an extensive autograph database boasting nearly 1 million images, JSA utilizes cutting-edge technology alongside this wealth of resources to ensure accurate authentication for collectors worldwide.
Autographed cards certified by CGC and JSA will be distinguished by a unique CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label. This label prominently displays both brand names and features a yellow “Authentic Autograph” designation, a color traditionally associated with CGC to indicate genuine signatures. Upon request, cards can also undergo autograph grading, with the grade prominently showcased on the label alongside the card’s grade and description. Furthermore, cards encapsulated with the CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label will include CGC Cards Grader Notes, offering detailed insights into the signers.
For premium-grade cards, CGC Cards presents the exclusive gold CGC x JSA Pristine 10 label, reserved for cards that achieve a CGC Pristine 10 grade, reflecting the highest quality standards.
Steven R. Eichenbaum, CEO of CCG, emphasized the significance of this partnership, highlighting the combination of top-notch grading services with expert autograph authentication. James J. Spence, Jr., President of JSA, expressed his delight in launching the combined services for cards at The National, fulfilling a longstanding request from collectors and enthusiasts.
To learn more about how to submit cards for CGC x JSA certification, collectors can visit the CGC Cards website and utilize the online submission form. By selecting “JSA Autograph Authentication” after choosing their grading tier, collectors can kickstart the process. Pricing for JSA autograph authentication is determined by the grading tier chosen, with additional CGC Cards grading fees applying to submissions.
With a shared commitment to providing top-tier services and ensuring every submission receives expert care, CGC and JSA are set to elevate the collecting experience for enthusiasts worldwide. This new offering marks a significant milestone in the collectibles industry, promising a streamlined and enhanced experience for autographed card collectors and dealers alike.