80/20 Centering: Meaning, Grading Impact, and What to Expect

80/20 centering means one border is about four times wider than the opposite, which is considered heavily off-center and caps the card’s grade low at most grading companies.

What Does 80/20 Centering Mean?

80/20 centering describes a trading card where the border on one side is 80% of the total width, and the opposite border is 20%. This ratio shows the card is significantly off-center, with the design shifted far toward one edge. You can confirm your card’s exact centering ratio by measuring it with the Midpoint app.

Is 80/20 Centering Good?

No, 80/20 centering is not considered good. Most collectors and grading companies prefer centering much closer to equal on both sides, such as 60/40 or better. 80/20 is visually obvious and generally regarded as poor centering.

How Does 80/20 Centering Affect Grading?

Front: 80/20 centering on the front of a card is well outside the tolerance for high grades at PSA, BGS, CGC, SGC, TAG, and similar grading companies. Even if corners, edges, and surface are flawless, this centering ratio will cap the grade low.
Back: 80/20 also exceeds the back centering tolerance for top grades at most graders.
Other Subgrades: Remember, centering is just one part of the grading process. Corners, edges, and surface condition also impact the final grade, but poor centering like 80/20 will limit the maximum possible grade regardless of other factors.

How to Measure Your Card’s Centering

Before submitting your card for grading, measure its exact centering using the Midpoint app for iOS or Android. The app detects borders from a single photo and calculates precise centering percentages for both front and back, helping you make informed decisions about grading submissions.

Summary: Should You Submit a Card With 80/20 Centering?

Cards with 80/20 centering are not likely to receive high grades due to being heavily off-center. If centering is important to you or your potential buyers, consider this before submitting. Always confirm your card’s exact centering in Midpoint and check the grading company’s current published standards before deciding.

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FAQ

What does 80/20 centering mean on a trading card?

It means one border is 80% of the width and the opposite is 20%, making the card heavily off-center.

Is 80/20 centering acceptable for high grades?

No, 80/20 centering is well outside the tolerance for top grades at most grading companies.

Will perfect corners or edges help a card with 80/20 centering grade higher?

No, even flawless corners and edges can't overcome the low grade caused by 80/20 centering.

How can I check if my card is 80/20 centered?

Use the Midpoint app to measure your card’s exact centering from a photo before submitting it for grading.

Do grading standards for centering change?

Yes, standards can change. Always check the grading company’s current published guidelines and measure your card’s centering before submitting.