Card Grading Standards

How We Grade Cards at KAMEX

At KAMEX, our primary standard is Near Mint (NM) or better. Every card is individually assessed against the standard TCG grading scale before being listed. For select vintage sets, we may offer Lightly Played (LP) cards where NM copies are scarce — these are always clearly labeled so you know exactly what you're getting.

Below is the full TCG grading scale for reference, so you know exactly where our cards stand.

Mint (M)

A perfect card in every way. No wear, no flaws, no imperfections of any kind. Some of our cards come directly from sealed product and are immediately sleeved and protected upon opening, preserving their Mint condition from the moment they are pulled.

Near Mint (NM) — The KAMEX Standard

A card that shows no visible wear under normal conditions. Corners are sharp, edges are clean, the surface is free of scratches or marks, and centering is within acceptable range. Near Mint is our default listing condition at KAMEX. In practice, many of our cards come directly from sealed packs and may be in Mint condition — we simply list conservatively to ensure every customer receives at least what is described, and often better.

Lightly Played (LP) — Select Vintage Listings

Minor wear visible on close inspection — slight edge wear, very light surface scuffs, or minor whitening on corners. Still a highly playable and collectible card. For certain vintage sets where NM copies are rare or unavailable, KAMEX offers LP cards as a clearly labeled alternative. Every LP card is individually reviewed and described so you know exactly what you're purchasing before you buy.

Moderately Played (MP)

Noticeable wear including more significant edge wear, creases, or surface scratches. Clearly used but still structurally intact. Not sold at KAMEX.

Heavily Played (HP)

Significant wear throughout — heavy creasing, major edge damage, deep scratches, or fading. Not sold at KAMEX.

Damaged (D)

Severe damage that affects the structural integrity of the card — tears, holes, water damage, or extreme warping. Not sold at KAMEX.

Our Standard, Simply Put

The vast majority of cards at KAMEX are Near Mint or better. Where LP cards are available, they are vintage exceptions — always clearly labeled, individually reviewed, and priced accordingly. If a listing doesn't specify LP, you're getting NM or better. That's our commitment.