CGC Sets New Records as the Fastest-Growing Card Grading Service

The card grading industry is witnessing a remarkable transformation as Certified Guaranty Company (CGC) reports grading a record-breaking 570,000 cards in May 2025, according to GemRate.com. This achievement not only surpasses its previous record of 341,000 cards graded in April but also cements CGC's position as the fastest-growing card grading company in history, outpacing competitors by more than double the growth rate.

The surge in CGC's grading volumes is closely tied to the introduction of the CGC Pristine 10 label in 2023, a designation that has become highly coveted among collectors. Cards bearing this label have seen significant appreciation in value on the secondary market, exemplified by the sale of an Alpha Black Lotus graded CGC Pristine 10 for a record $3 million in a private sale in April 2024. Similarly, sports cards graded by CGC, such as a Victor Wembanyama rookie card graded CGC 9.5, have realized impressive sums, exceeding $100,000 in recent auctions.

CGC's growth is not limited to a specific segment of the card collecting hobby. The company has reported a 631% year-over-year increase in sports cards and a 146% increase in trading card games (TCGs) and non-sports cards in May. Month-over-month comparisons reveal even more staggering growth, with sports cards up 474% and TCGs and non-sports cards increasing by 26% from April to May.

This exponential growth is attributed to CGC's commitment to providing fast, accurate, and affordable grading services, alongside strategic global expansions. With offices in London, Munich, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and plans for Dubai, CGC is poised to further its reach and influence in the card grading market. The company's trajectory suggests it is on track to grade 10 million cards by the end of the year, a testament to its growing dominance in the industry.

The implications of CGC's record-breaking growth extend beyond the company itself, reflecting broader trends in the collectibles market. The increasing value of graded cards underscores the importance of professional grading in establishing authenticity and condition, factors that significantly impact a card's market value. For collectors and investors alike, CGC's rise highlights the evolving landscape of the hobby, where grading services play a pivotal role in the valuation and trading of collectible cards.