Frequently asked
Everything people ask us.
Grouped by where it comes up. If yours isn't here, email us — we add the good ones.
The basics
Before you submit.
Will restoration hurt my grade?
Grading companies distinguish between conservation and alteration. We use non-destructive methods only — no trimming, no recolouring, no chemical bleaching, nothing added to the card. Grading is at the sole discretion of the grading company and we don't guarantee outcomes.
What can't be fixed?
Whitening, deep fibre breaks, water staining, ink and marker, chipping or missing card stock, factory miscuts, and scratches that go into the foil layer. Every service lists its own limits.
How long does it take?
24–30 business days for standard submissions. The clock starts when your cards arrive and are checked in, not when you order. Creased cards add 7–10 business days. Crease reduction is included in Full Service restoration at no extra charge. We can reduce a crease, but it will always leave a scar, and graders will almost always see it. Expedited service is $49.99 per card for 5–7 business days, and isn't available on creased cards.
What does it cost?
Your card's declared value sets its tier. There are 12 tiers, from Mint at $34.99 per card (under $25) to Ultra Grail++ at $399.99 per card ($10,000 and up). Every tier gets the same Full Service restoration, and the submission form picks the right tier as you enter the value. Bulk discounts start at five cards. See all 12 tiers.
Shipping and safety
Getting cards to us.
How do I ship my cards?
We email a prepaid FedEx label within one business day of checkout. Put each card in a penny sleeve and a top loader, then seal the top loader in a team bag so the card can't slide out — no tape on the holder. Our intake machines take top loaders only, and cards sent in rigid mailers carry a repacking fee. Include a printout of your order with the order number visible.
Are my cards insured?
With our prepaid FedEx label and Cabrella cover added, your declared value is insured on the way to us, up to $25,000 per package (US only). Return shipping is insured through The Mint Workshop. How the cover works.
Can I send several cards together?
Yes, and you should — bulk pricing starts at 5 cards. Enter each card separately so it gets its own slot, then ship them in one box.
My card is in a slab.
Toggle the slab option in the submission form. Cracking is $4.99 per card, free on Ultra Grail™, Ultra Grail+ and Ultra Grail++. We open PSA, BGS, CGC, SGC and TAG holders safely and return the raw card in fresh protection. The original label can't be preserved.
During and after
Once we have them.
Can I watch the progress?
Yes. We video the box opening, count your cards against the order, and scan, photograph and label every card. Your submission tracker shows the photos and your order's stage.
Do you submit my cards for grading?
Yes, to CGC. After restoration we submit your cards through a third-party CGC dealer account at a special rate: $35 per card, CGC’s grading fee included. Special turnaround: 20–30 business days at CGC. Graded cards come back to us and ship home to you. CGC is the only grading company we work with.
What if the work doesn't take?
We stop and contact you before going any further. Refunds and credits are handled under our Refund & Cancellation Policy.
How should I store it afterwards?
Fresh penny sleeve and a rigid holder, out of direct light, somewhere stable in temperature and humidity. Avoid tight binders — that's where most creases come from.
Still not sure?
Send a photo. We'll give you a straight answer on whether your card is worth doing.