Card Thickness - What is Pt?
Grading Thickness: What Makes 35pt, 130pt, and 180pt Cards Special?
When it comes to trading card grading, the thickness of a card plays a crucial role in its preservation, display, and overall value. At SSINT, we understand that every collector’s card is unique, and the grading process involves a careful examination of not only its condition but also its physical attributes, including thickness. In this post, we explore what makes 35pt, 130pt, and 180pt cards special, and how these different thicknesses can affect the grading process.
Understanding Card Thickness: What Does 'Pt' Mean?
The term "pt" refers to the thickness of a card, measured in points. Each point represents 1/1000 of an inch, so a 35pt card is 0.035 inches thick, a 130pt card is 0.130 inches thick, and a 180pt card is 0.180 inches thick. The thicker the card, the more robust and durable it is, offering better protection against wear and tear over time.
Each type of card thickness is suitable for different types of collectors and card designs, impacting everything from the card’s fragility to its aesthetic appeal and collectability. Let’s dive deeper into the three most popular thicknesses graded by SSINT: 35pt, 130pt, and 180pt.
35pt Cards: Sleek and Functional
35pt cards are the most common thickness used for trading cards, such as standard sports cards, Pokémon cards, and Magic: The Gathering cards. These cards strike the perfect balance between being sturdy enough to handle frequent handling while remaining thin enough to be easily stored in standard card sleeves and binders.
Due to their thinness, 35pt cards are more prone to bending or corner wear, especially if stored or handled improperly. At SSINT, we pay special attention to these nuances during the grading process. We assess the card’s corners, edges, surface condition, and overall alignment to ensure that even the slightest imperfections are captured. These cards are perfect for players and casual collectors who prioritize card playability and ease of storage.
Tip: If you own a collection of 35pt cards, be sure to store them in high-quality sleeves to preserve their value, especially when grading.
130pt Cards: Robust and Built for Display
130pt cards are thicker and more rigid than their 35pt counterparts. They are commonly used for thicker specialty cards, such as autographed cards, memorabilia cards, or custom artwork cards that require added durability and protection. The extra thickness of 130pt cards makes them more resistant to bending, ensuring that they retain their shape and condition over time.
Due to their sturdiness, 130pt cards are ideal for display and long-term preservation. Their extra thickness also provides a superior visual appeal, as the cards feel more substantial in hand. However, while they are less prone to damage than thinner cards, 130pt cards require a different kind of care during the grading process. Our SSINT graders ensure that we account for any imperfections, such as surface scratches, corner rounding, or edge fraying, which may not be as obvious but could still impact the overall grade.
Tip: If you’re looking to showcase your cards in a display case, consider investing in ultra-protective cases for your 130pt cards to maintain their pristine condition.
180pt Cards: The Ultimate Protection
180pt cards are the thickest cards graded by SSINT, commonly used for premium and high-end cards, such as limited edition releases, game-worn memorabilia, or rare collectibles. These cards are known for their impressive durability and resilience, which is why they are often used for items that are both valuable and fragile.
The extra thickness offers superior protection against bending, creasing, and general wear. Whether you’re dealing with high-value sports memorabilia or limited-edition art cards, a 180pt card provides a level of security that ensures your investment stays protected. When grading 180pt cards, SSINT focuses not just on the card’s condition, but also on the unique aspects of the card’s design and historical significance.
Because 180pt cards are less prone to physical damage, the grading process often focuses more on factors like surface flaws, print quality, and overall aesthetics. These cards are prized possessions for collectors, and our grading scale reflects the detailed attention they require.
Tip: Due to their bulk, 180pt cards may require custom display cases to keep them safely stored and easily accessible.
Why Card Thickness Matters in Grading
The thickness of your trading card plays a significant role in determining its overall longevity, durability, and presentation. At SSINT, our grading process takes into account how a card’s thickness affects its preservation and aesthetic qualities. Whether you have 35pt, 130pt, or 180pt cards, our SSINT Legacy Spectrum grading system evaluates every nuance to provide you with an accurate, in-depth assessment of each card’s condition.
When you grade with SSINT, you're not just preserving the card – you’re ensuring that it stays protected for years to come. Our unique use of aluminium labels, UV-protected cases, and an internal database for tracking all submissions means that your cards are safeguarded in the highest-quality protective materials available.
Grade Your Cards with SSINT
If you’re a collector or investor with 35pt, 130pt, or 180pt cards, consider grading with SSINT to unlock their true potential. Our innovative grading system and high-quality protective cases ensure your cards stay in top condition while maximizing their value. With our expert team, advanced technology, and industry-leading grading scale, SSINT is here to help you preserve your collection for future generations.
Ready to grade your cards? Visit our website today to learn more about our services and start the grading process with SSINT!
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of card thickness is essential for any serious collector. Whether you’re working with standard 35pt cards or high-end 180pt cards, each type offers distinct advantages and requires specific care. By choosing SSINT, you’re ensuring that your trading cards are graded with the utmost precision and stored in the highest-quality protective materials available. Grading isn’t just about assessing a card’s condition – it’s about preserving its value for the long term. Let SSINT help you take your collection to the next level!