Grading Qualifiers and No-Grade Codes: Why Cards Come Back Ungraded
Quick answer
A qualifier flags one specific issue on a card that otherwise earns a numeric grade, for example MK for marks. A no-grade is a card returned without a numeric grade, for reasons PSA lists as numbered definitions: trimming, restoration, recoloring, questionable authenticity, altered stock, minimum size, cleaning, miscut and cards it does not grade.
Qualifiers versus no-grades
These are two different outcomes, and mixing them up is expensive.
- A qualifier is attached to a numeric grade. The card is gradable, and the label notes a specific issue that stopped it from earning an unqualified grade.
- A no-grade means the card is returned without a numeric grade at all.
Qualifiers
PSA uses short qualifier codes to flag a particular issue. The most widely known are:
- OC (off-center): centering outside what the numeric grade would otherwise allow.
- ST (staining): staining on the card.
- PD (print defect): a defect from printing.
- OF (out of focus): the image is out of focus.
- MK (marks): writing, ink or pencil marks, or the impression left by writing.
- MC (miscut): an abnormal factory cut.
PSA's own page defines MK as applying to any card with writing, ink marks, pencil marks or evidence of the impression left from writing. Check PSA's current standards for the full list and wording.
A qualified card is usually worth less than an unqualified card of the same number, so if you are close to a line, it is worth knowing which of your flaws could trigger one.
No-grade reasons
PSA lists numbered definitions for cards returned without a numeric grade. In summary:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| N1 | Evidence of trimming |
| N2 | Evidence of restoration |
| N3 | Evidence of recoloration |
| N4 | Questionable authenticity |
| N5 | Altered stock, including crease pressing, scratch removal, enhanced gloss or foreign substances |
| N6 | Minimum size requirement not met |
| N7 | Evidence of cleaning |
| N8 | Miscut |
| N9 | A card or issue PSA does not grade |
Several of these can qualify for encapsulation as "Authentic Altered" at the grader's discretion if that option was selected on the submission form. N4 never qualifies for encapsulation.
What it costs you
PSA states that for the alteration-type reasons, including trimming, restoration, recoloring, altered stock and cleaning, you are charged the applicable grading fee. For minimum size and miscut it says you are not charged the grading fee unless you requested an "Authentic" minimum. Always read the current policy, because it can change.
How people end up with a no-grade
The pattern is almost always well-meaning:
- wiping a card with a cloth or a liquid to remove a mark
- trying to flatten a slight bend
- rubbing whitened edges or corners with a marker
- buying a card that someone else already altered
Do not touch a card to improve it. A flaw is a grade; an alteration is a no-grade, and the fee still applies.
Staying on the right side
- Do not clean, press, color or trim a card.
- If a card has an obvious mark or bend, accept the grade it will get rather than altering it.
- When buying raw cards for grading, inspect for signs of trimming or tampering.
- Pre-grade first, and if something looks off, reconsider the submission.
Read common grading mistakes for the broader list of errors that cost money.
Frequently asked questions
What does MK mean on a PSA slab?
MK stands for marks. PSA uses it for cards with writing, ink marks, pencil marks or evidence of the impression left from writing.
Do I still pay if my card is not graded?
Often yes. PSA states that for several no-grade reasons, including trimming, restoration, recoloring, altered stock and cleaning, you are charged the applicable grading fee. For minimum size and miscut it says the fee is not charged unless you request a minimum encapsulation grade.
Can I clean a card before grading it?
You should not. PSA lists evidence of cleaning and altered stock as no-grade reasons, including when a foreign substance such as cleaning spray or wax has been applied.
Before you pay for grading
Put your card through the same tests, free.
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