News

PSA, the authority in card grading and authentication, is rolling out an innovative update to its standard-sized trading card holders. The updated holders, while similar in appearance to their predecessors, are made from a denser, medical-grade plastic composition that enhances their protective qualities without altering their external dimensions.

Detailed in a recent post on the company's website by Brian Alvey, PSA's Mechanical Engineering Manager, the new polymer used in these holders is designed to be more shatter-resistant, better protected against UV damage, and more resistant to scratches. "Although the outer dimensions remain unchanged, the premium feel of these new holders is immediately noticeable," Alvey stated.

These improvements are the result of a three-year development process, during which PSA aimed to address common concerns among collectors about the durability and environmental resistance of card holders. The new holders are noted for their impermeability to heat, humidity, water, and UV light, and their enhanced resistance to scuffs and scratches.

An additional innovation in the design of these holders is the removal of sleeves, which traditionally encapsulated the cards. This design change helps minimize the movement of cards within the holders, a challenge that has occasionally led to damage or misalignment. This enhancement aims to offer a more secure fit and peace of mind for collectors.

PSA President Ryan Hoge commented on the new holders, noting, "The high-end feel of the new holders enhances the overall value perception of the cards they contain." His statement underscores the dual benefits of improved functionality and aesthetic appeal that these new holders provide.

Starting this month, PSA will implement these new holders for all newly graded sports cards, marking a significant enhancement in the way trading cards are preserved and presented by one of the industry's leaders