Collectors use a grading system to determine what condition their card is in when they receive it or when they are buying it online or at an auction house/storefront/showroom etc. Cards are graded on a numerical scale that goes from 1 (poor) to 10 (gem mint). Cards that fall within the 6 – 8 range are considered near mint condition while those with 9 & 10 are given gem mint status due to their flawless surface and edges with no visible defects whatsoever.