How to Spot a Fake PSA Slab

Counterfeit PSA, BGS, and SGC slabs are an unfortunately growing problem. The following checks won't catch every fake — but they'll catch most of them before you part with your money.

1. Verify the cert number on the PSA database

Every genuine slab has a unique certification number. Enter it on PSA's public cert lookup and confirm that the card, year, set, and grade all match the slab in front of you. A mismatch is an instant red flag.

2. Check the label font and spacing

Counterfeiters frequently miss tiny typography details. Compare the label to a known-good example of the same era. The kerning on "PSA" and the font weight of the card description are common tells.

3. Inspect the hologram

Modern PSA slabs use a specific holographic security pattern. Counterfeit holograms look flat at certain angles or have blurred edges. Tilt the slab under bright light.

4. Measure the slab and weigh it

Genuine slabs are consistent in size and weight. If you have access to another authenticated slab of the same era, compare. Cheap knock-off plastic often weighs noticeably less.

5. Look for seams and tampering

Run your fingernail around the edge of the slab. Factory-sealed slabs have clean, fused edges. Slabs that have been cracked open and glued back shut almost always show seams or micro-cracks along the perimeter.

Extra: pre-scan the card inside

Use ID Grader to scan the card through the slab. If the AI grade is wildly inconsistent with the label — for example, a PSA 10 label on a card the AI rates an obvious 7 with visible corner wear — trust the AI. Something is off.