90/10 Centering: What It Means, If It's Good, and Grade Limits

90/10 centering means one border is about ten times the size of the opposite border, which is extremely off-center. This ratio caps card grades low and is rarely acceptable on the front of a card.

What Does 90/10 Centering Mean?

90/10 centering describes a card where one border is approximately 90% of the total width (or height) and the opposite border is only 10%. This is a severe misalignment, easily visible to the naked eye. Always confirm whether you are measuring the front or back of the card, as grading standards differ for each side.

Is 90/10 Centering Considered Good?

90/10 is considered extremely poor centering. On the front of a card, this ratio is far outside the tolerance for any high grade from major grading companies like PSA, BGS, CGC, or SGC. It is only referenced as an upper tolerance for the back centering on a PSA 9, and even then, the front must meet much stricter standards.

What Grade Does 90/10 Centering Allow?

Front: 90/10 centering will cap your grade very low. It is not close to the requirements for high grades (such as PSA 9 or 10) from any major grader.
Back: PSA allows up to 90/10 centering on the back for a PSA 9, but the front must meet much tighter tolerances. Always check the latest published standards for each grader before submitting.
Remember, centering is only one subgrade - corners, edges, and surface also affect the final grade.

How to Measure 90/10 Centering Accurately

To know if your card is at or near 90/10 centering, use a precise tool. The Midpoint app (available on iOS and Android) detects the borders from a photo and calculates your card's exact centering on both the front and back. This helps you avoid submitting cards that are unlikely to reach your target grade.

Always Confirm Grading Standards

Grading companies sometimes update their standards. Always check the grader’s current published requirements for both front and back centering. Measure your card’s exact centering in Midpoint to make informed submission decisions.

Get your card's exact centering ratio in seconds with Midpoint - free to start - and know its grade ceiling.

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FAQ

What does 90/10 centering mean on a trading card?

It means one border is about 90% of the total width (or height) and the opposite border is only 10%, which is extremely off-center.

Is 90/10 centering good for card grading?

No. 90/10 is considered very poor centering and will cap your grade low, especially on the front of the card.

Can a card with 90/10 centering get a high grade?

No. 90/10 centering on the front prevents high grades. On the back, PSA allows 90/10 for a PSA 9, but the front must be much better.

How can I measure if my card is 90/10 centered?

Use a precise tool like the Midpoint app to measure exact front and back centering from a photo before submitting for grading.

Does centering alone determine my card’s grade?

No. Corners, edges, and surface all affect the final grade along with centering. Each subgrade matters.