The Beginner’s Guide to Shopping With eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee

This article is sponsored by eBay. Shop Trading Cards, team fan apparel, autographs, and more. Inspected by independent authenticators.

The trading card market is bigger than ever, and that means transparency and authentication are needed more than ever, too. As popularity has grown, major marketplaces have needed to adjust, and eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee has been one of the biggest steps in buyer protection.

Originally covering categories like sneakers and handbags, eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee expanded to include trading cards in early 2022 — and now has expanded to include Canada as well as the United States.

Designed to bring an extra layer of protection to pricey purchases, eBay’s AG is actually easier to use than you think. In fact, you don’t really need to do anything different to take advantage. Here’s everything you need to know to get started:

Understanding the process

For qualifying items, sellers will ship your purchase to CGC or PSA to be authenticated. Items undergo additional inspection to ensure the item hasn’t been tampered with and that the item was listed and described properly. In short, this makes sure you’re getting exactly what you’ve paid for.

For graded cards, experts ensure the holder hasn’t been tampered with and that all elements from the holder to the label are authentic. For raw cards, experts inspect the card for authenticity and that the overall condition of the card matches the listing.

Eligible cards

Individual cards $250 and above are eligible for eBay’s AG. Raw cards include sports cards, collectible card games, autograph and relic cards, and non‑sports trading cards. Graded cards from PSA, SGC, CGC and BGS are also eligible. Groups of cards like sets and lots aren’t currently eligible.

Cost of eBay’s AG

There is no additional cost for eBay’s AG at this time.

Authentication timeline and shipping

Authentication generally takes one to two business days after receiving the item. Tracking information will also be provided so you can follow your order’s progress.

Cards sold for $750 or more will require signature upon delivery.

Inspection failures

Sometimes items won’t pass inspection, and the buyer won’t be punished. Buyers will be issued a full refund. PSA-graded cards that show signs of tampering will have the serial number deactivated and the seller will be notified.

Additional categories with AG support

Sneakers, handbags and watches can all qualify for eBay’s AG.

With the Sports Card Investor app, you can profit from the hobby you love by keeping up with trending cards, tracking real-time prices with Market Movers and buying items on eBay. Download the industry-leading app here for Apple or Android

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