Slab Game Strong: Best Display Options for Your Graded Cards

For collectors, graded cards represent far more than just pieces of cardboard—they are tangible pieces of history, valuable investments, and sometimes, a lifelong passion. Each card tells a unique story, from its origin to the moment it’s encapsulated in a protective slab by companies like PSA, CGC, SGC, or BGS. These slabs are more than just plastic cases; they certify a card's authenticity, assign a grade to its condition, and ensure its long-term preservation. But protecting these treasures goes beyond grading. As any serious collector knows, how you store and display your graded cards in the right graded card display case can be just as important as the grade itself.

Whether you've invested in vintage sports memorabilia or modern trading cards, safeguarding those precious slabs with the right display case is crucial. The goal is to find a solution that not only keeps your cards secure but also enhances their aesthetic value. That’s where the Display Vault Air Card Edition comes into play. Designed specifically for PSA, CGC, SGC, and BGS slabs, this display case offers the perfect blend of protection, style, and convenience, ensuring your collection is both well-protected and beautifully showcased.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the leading card grading companies, explore some of the most valuable and rare cards they’ve graded, and dive into the best methods for showcasing your collection with pride. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, we’ll provide insights into how to make sure your graded cards shine, both on display and for years to come.

 

 

 

PSA 

PSA is the original pioneer of card grading, revolutionizing the hobby when it was founded in 1991. As the first company to offer professional grading services, PSA brought standardization and trust to the industry. By establishing a 10-point grading scale and encapsulating cards in tamper-proof holders, PSA quickly became the go-to grading service for collectors looking to authenticate and protect their prized cards. As collectors sought ways to showcase their collections, the demand for the perfect graded card display case grew alongside PSA’s influence. Today, PSA continues to dominate the market, with millions of cards graded, making it the most recognized name in the hobby.

When it comes to high-value cards, PSA has graded some of the most iconic and expensive pieces in the hobby. These cards, which often come from legendary athletes or limited production runs, have shattered auction records and become the crown jewels of their owners’ collections. Let's take a look at the top three most expensive cards ever graded by PSA.

1. 1998 Pokemon Japanese Promo Illustrator - Holo CoroCoro Comics

• Sale price: $5,275,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: Private sale
• Grade: PSA 10

2. 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (#311)

• Sale price: $5,200,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: Private sale
• Grade: PSA 9

3. 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth (#53)

• Sale price: $4,200,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: Memory Lane Auctions 
• Grade: PSA 9

Card Display for PSA

For PSA collectors, the Display Vault Air Card Edition is designed to complement the prestige of your PSA slabs while ensuring their protection. As a premium graded card display case, it is crafted with high-density EVA foam and features Friction Fit™ technology, providing a secure grip to keep your PSA-graded cards safe. The shimmering carbon fiber finish enhances the visual appeal of your collection, giving it a modern, sleek look. At only a fraction of the weight of other cases, it’s ultra-lightweight and easy to mount on your wall, so you can showcase your cards in style. Best of all, it’s ready to use straight out of the box—no assembly needed.

CGC

Originally known for its expertise in comic book grading, CGC expanded into trading card grading in 2000. With a reputation for strict and consistent grading standards, CGC quickly gained credibility among collectors, especially in the world of Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering cards. Their transparent cases, detailed labels, and state-of-the-art technology have set them apart, making CGC a top choice for collectors who value precision. As the need for high-quality graded card display cases grew, CGC's appeal extended beyond grading to how collectors store and showcase their cards. Though newer to card grading, CGC has swiftly established itself as a major player in the industry.

CGC has earned its place in the hobby by grading some of the most sought-after trading cards, particularly in the Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering markets. As collectors continue to turn to CGC for their high-value cards, the company has authenticated and graded several pieces that have achieved impressive auction results. Let’s explore the top three most expensive cards ever graded by CGC.

1. Black Lotus Magic: The Gathering (1993) Limited Edition (Alpha) Rare

• Sale price: $3,000,000.00
• Sale year: 2024 
• Sale location: Private Sale
• Grade: CGC 10

2. Pokémon Illustrator Pokémon (1998) Japanese CoroCoro Comics Illustration Contest

• Sale price: $495,000.00
• Sale year: 2023 
• Sale location: Heritage Auctions
• Grade: CGC 10

3. Blastoise Pokémon (1998) Commissioned Presentation-009/165R Galaxy Star Holo

• Sale price: $360,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: Heritage Auctions
• Grade: CGC 8.5

Card Display for CGC

For CGC collectors who value precision and protection, the Display Vault Air Card Edition is the perfect graded card display case for showcasing your CGC slabs. With high-density EVA foam and Friction Fit™ technology, your cards are securely held in place, ensuring they remain protected from damage. The case’s shimmering carbon fiber finish brings a polished, professional look to your display, while its ultra-lightweight design allows for effortless wall mounting. Whether you're a Pokémon or Magic: The Gathering enthusiast, this graded card display case is ready to use straight out of the box—no setup required.

SGC

SGC has been a reliable name in card grading since 1998, known for its focus on vintage cards and dedication to accuracy. With its signature black slab, SGC quickly became a favorite among collectors, especially those who deal in older, rare cards. As collectors sought ways to store and display their prized possessions, the demand for high-quality sports card displays and a graded card display case became evident. The company is respected for its consistent grading and its ability to handle a wide range of card types, from early 1900s tobacco cards to modern sports cards. Over the years, SGC has cemented its place in the industry by offering a trusted alternative to the bigger names, particularly for vintage collectors.

SGC has had the honor of grading some of the most valuable and historically significant cards in the hobby. As we explore their contributions to the graded card market, here are the top three most expensive cards ever graded by SGC.

1. 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle (#311)

• Sale price: $12,600,000.00
• Sale year: 2022
• Sale location: Heritage Auctions
• Grade:  SGC 9.5

2. 1909 Sweet Caporal T206 Honus Wagner (White Border)

• Sale price: $7,250,000.00
• Sale year: 2022
• Sale location: Private sale
• Grade: SGC 2

3. 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth (#9)

• Sale price: $7,200,000.00
• Sale year: 2023
• Sale location: Private sale
• Grade: SGC 3

Display Vault Air Card Edition for SGC

For those with an SGC collection, the Display Vault Air Card Edition offers the perfect solution, serving as both a graded card display case and a versatile trading card wall display. It’s designed to provide the ultimate combination of protection and style for your collection. The high-density EVA foam, paired with Friction Fit™ technology, ensures your SGC-graded slabs are securely housed. With its shimmering carbon fiber finish, the case adds a modern touch that complements SGC’s classic black slabs. Its ultra-lightweight construction makes it easy to mount as a graded card wall display, letting you proudly present both vintage treasures and modern collectibles. Best of all, no assembly is required—just open the box, and it's ready to display your most valued cards.

Slab Game Strong: Best Display Options for Your Graded Cards

BGS

BGS was founded in 1999 as an extension of the Beckett name, which had long been synonymous with sports card price guides. BGS quickly became a top contender in the grading world, known for its strict grading standards and unique subgrades that provide collectors with a detailed breakdown of a card's condition. As the popularity of card grading grew, so did the need for the ideal graded card display case to protect and showcase these collectibles. BGS is especially popular among modern card collectors due to its sleek, sturdy cases and premium-grade protection. Their "black label" 10 grading, reserved for cards deemed perfect in every aspect, is one of the most coveted grades in the hobby.

BGS has graded some of the most valuable and iconic cards in the industry. From modern gems to historic pieces, BGS has been responsible for preserving and authenticating some of the most expensive cards ever sold. Here are the top three most expensive cards graded by BGS.

1.2003-04 Upper Deck Exquisite LeBron James

• Sale price: $5,200,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: PWCC Auctions
• Grade: BGS 9

2. 2017 National Treasures Platinum Patrick Mahomes II Autograph #161

• Sale price: $4,300,000.00
• Sale year: 2021
• Sale location: PWCC Auctions
• Grade: BGS 8.5

3. 2009 Bowman Chrome Mike Trout Superfractor

• Sale price: $3,936,000.00
• Sale year: 2020
• Sale location: Goldin Auctions
• Grade: BGS 9

Card Display for BGS

For collectors of BGS slabs, the Display Vault Air Card Edition is specifically engineered to offer premium protection and display options. This top-tier graded card display case and sports card display case features high-quality EVA foam with Friction Fit™ to secure your BGS-graded cards, while the shimmering carbon fiber finish adds a sleek, eye-catching element to your collection. Despite its solid construction, this display case is ultra-lightweight and easily mountable on your wall, making it simple to create a stunning visual display. With no assembly required, you can unbox it and immediately start showcasing your black label or highly graded BGS cards.

FAQs

Which Card Grading Company is the Best?

Choosing the best card grading company depends on various factors such as your location, budget, and specific needs. PSA and the PSA case is renowned for its long-standing reputation and widespread acceptance in the market, making it a popular choice for many collectors. BGS is favored for its detailed subgrades and is particularly appreciated by those who value comprehensive assessments. CGC is known for its stringent standards and is a great choice for collectors of both trading cards and comics. SGC is highly regarded for its expertise in grading vintage cards and offers a reliable grading process with distinctive black holders.  Ultimately, the best card grading service for you will depend on your individual preferences and the specific attributes you value most in the grading process. Among the various card grading companies, each has unique strengths that cater to different collector needs.

What is the best storage solution for graded cards?

For top-tier graded card storage and display, the Card Display and Card Case deliver premium protection and presentation. The Air Card Edition showcases up to nine slabs and fits PSA, CGC, SGC, BGS, and magnetic holders. It’s ready to use right out of the box, featuring high-density EVA foam with Friction Fit™ technology and a lightweight, wall-mountable design.

The Card Caseoffers the same high-quality protection in a portable, ultra-light case with a sleek carbon fiber finish. It’s ideal for displaying, storing, or transporting your collection—and can even be personalized with custom engraving for a one-of-a-kind touch.

How do you store graded cards?

For serious protection and display, the Card Case is a top choice. Its hard-shell exterior with ribbed aluminum sides keeps slabs secure, while the scratch-resistant, crystal-clear window shows off your cards in perfect clarity. Inside, high-density EVA foam and a sleek carbon fiber finish add both stability and style.

Built for collectors on the move, it features an ergonomic handle and secure locking mechanism for safe transport. Mounted or stored long-term, it shields your cards from dust, moisture, and accidental damage—combining durability, design, and peace of mind in one premium case.