What Is PSA Declared Value?
How it sets your fee tier, and your insurance cap.
Quick answer
Declared value is your estimate of what the card is worth after grading, per PSA’s form. PSA uses it to slot you into the right fee tier and insure the card on the way back.
Be honest and realistic. Wild lowballs can leave you under-insured; sky-high numbers bump you into pricier tiers before you know the grade.
How do I pick a number?
Start with what the card would sell for if it grades what you think it will. Check eBay sold, 130point, marketplaces. Same set, same parallel, similar grade.
Chasing a PSA 10 on a borderline card? Run the math for both 9 and 10 outcomes before you lock declared value and service cost.
Common mistakes
Common questions
PSA may adjust fees/insurance after grading based on results. Read their current policy. It is why estimating post-grade value matters, not just today’s raw price.
Recent comps for the grade you realistically expect (PSA 9 vs 10 can be night and day). For rookies with no gem sales yet, use conservative numbers unless you have strong eye appeal.
No. Graders do not see your wallet. Only the card.
Yes. White Glove clients get guidance off our inspection and market knowledge before forms are finalized.
Ready to submit with someone who does this every week?
Nostalgic Avenue is a PSA Authorized Dealer in San Diego. We prep your cards, handle the paperwork, and hand-deliver batches to PSA HQ so you are not guessing on packing or shipping.