Why PSA 9s Are Becoming More Popular Than PSA 10s in 2025
For years, collectors have chased PSA 10s as the gold standard of graded Pokémon cards. But in 2025, a shift is happening—PSA 9s are gaining serious traction with savvy buyers.
Here’s why the “second-best” grade is suddenly looking like a smart play.
📉 The PSA 10 Price Gap Is Widening
In many cases, PSA 10 prices have more than doubled, while PSA 9s haven’t kept pace—yet.
Example:
| Card | PSA 10 | PSA 9 | % Price Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charizard G LV.X | $5,000 | $1,200 | ~75% gap |
| Gold Star Torchic | $18,000 | $5,000 | ~72% gap |
| Crystal Ho-Oh | $12,000 | $5,500 | ~54% gap |
> That leaves a huge value gap for collectors priced out of 10s.
💡 Why PSA 9s Are Becoming More Desirable
✅ Nearly identical appearance to PSA 10s
- Most PSA 9s have only micro flaws or centering issues
- Still considered mint condition by many standards
✅ More liquid in the market
- PSA 9s sell more quickly than high-end 10s
- Easier to acquire for mid-tier collectors
✅ Better risk/reward ratio
- Less capital needed
- Higher percentage gain potential over time
🧠 Smart Collector Strategy in 2025
| Goal | Strategy |
|---|---|
| Build a high-end collection without overspending | Buy PSA 9s of grail-tier cards (Torchic, Umbreon, Charizard) |
| Flip or trade | Target underpriced PSA 9s with low pop |
| Long-term hold | Focus on vintage PSA 9s that are drying up in circulation |
💡 In some niches (like Gold Stars or Crystals), PSA 9s are becoming the entry-level investment tier.
⚠️ PSA 9 Pitfalls to Avoid
❌ PSA 9s with whitening, scratches, or poor eye appeal
❌ Overpaying for 9s of modern mass-produced cards
❌ Assuming all 9s are undervalued—check population reports first
📈 Final Takeaway
As PSA 10 prices soar and availability drops, PSA 9s offer a practical, strategic way to collect and invest without breaking the bank.
> If you’re priced out of a 10… the right 9 might be your next best move.
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