PSA is the premier grading company, and many collectors don't even buy other grading companies. But, as you know, PSA does not have half grades on cards. So Ins, a PSA preference means you're most likely looking at a 9 or 10 on modern cards. After all, lower grades are often worth less than raw cards.

What does PSA 9 mean?

MINT 9. Mint. A PSA Mint 9 is a superb condition card that exhibits only one of the following minor flaws: a very slight wax stain on reverse, a minor printing imperfection or slightly off-white borders. Centering must be approximately 60/40 to 65/35 or better on the front and 90/10 or better on the reverse.

Is BGS 9 good?

First of all, it depends on the sub-grades of the BGS card. For example, a BGS 9 with sub-grades of 10/9.5/9/9 is likely better than the average PSA 8. However, if any of the sub-grades are below a 9, then yeah it should roughly correlate to PSA 8 quality on average.