PSA vs BGS vs CGC for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown: Which Pays Most in 2026?
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Over the last 90 days, the gap between raw and graded sales of Squirtle #148 tells you exactly what to do. Understanding grader premiums is crucial. It’s not just about getting a number; it’s about maximizing your investment, whether you’re buying to hold or selling a recent pull. The market for illustration rare Pokémon cards, especially those from popular modern sets like Stellar Crown, can be incredibly dynamic. For a card like Squirtle #148, known for its engaging artwork and appeal to a broad range of collectors, understanding the subtle differences in what PSA, BGS, and CGC offer can mean the difference between a modest profit and a significant return. This analysis dives deep into the actual sales data from early 2026 to give you the clearest picture. PSA 10 of Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown trades at $460.00; BGS 9.5 at $134.74; CGC 10 at $195.00. Here’s which one to send.
Table of Contents
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The Price Data
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Cost & Turnaround Comparison
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The ROI Math for Each Grader
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Which Grader Should You Choose for THIS Card?
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When to Use Each Grader in General
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Where to Source This Card
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Frequently Asked Questions
The Price Data
When assessing the market for a card like Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown, the raw median price is our baseline. This is what you can expect to pay for a card that hasn’t been professionally graded, essentially the cost of entry before any grading fees or potential market appreciation. It’s essential to establish this floor before we look at how different grading companies impact its value. The numbers from the last 90 days of eBay sold listings for Squirtle #148 are quite telling. The premium commanded by a top-tier grade from a respected company can be substantial, but the specifics vary significantly between graders.
Here’s how Squirtle #148 stacks up across the major grading services based on recent sales data:
| Grader | Top Grade | Median Sold | Transactions | Premium vs Raw |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA | 10 | $460.00 | 25 | 305.5% |
| BGS | 9.5 | $134.74 | 6 | 18.8% |
| CGC | 10 | $195.00 | 23 | 71.9% |
Data source: eBay 90-day sold comps, May 2026
As you can see, the PSA 10 grade for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown absolutely dominates the market, commanding a staggering 305.5% premium over the raw median of $113.42. This means a PSA 10 is selling for an average of $460.00, while the raw card is valued at just $113.42. This is a massive difference and clearly indicates where collectors are placing their highest value. CGC 10 also offers a healthy premium, sitting at 71.9% above raw, translating to a median sale of $195.00. This positions CGC as a solid, albeit distant, second for this particular card.
The performance of BGS 9.5 is, frankly, surprising given the raw median. A BGS 9.5 for Squirtle #148 is only fetching $134.74, a mere 18.8% premium over the raw price. This is an important data point: for this specific card, BGS doesn’t appear to be the optimal choice if your primary goal is maximizing profit based on current market trends. The low transaction count for BGS 9.5 also suggests less collector demand in this tier for this particular Pokémon. It’s crucial to remember that while these numbers are for the current market, trends can shift, but for now, the data strongly favors PSA for Squirtle #148.
Cost & Turnaround Comparison
Beyond the raw sales data, the practicalities of grading play a significant role in a collector’s decision. The cost of grading, combined with the expected turnaround time, can impact your overall profit and how quickly you can get a card back into the market or into your collection. For a card like Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown, especially if you’re grading multiple copies, understanding these factors is key to making an informed choice. This analysis looks at each grader’s cheapest open single-card tier for a card of this value.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay and how long it might take for each of the major grading services as of October 12, 2026:
| Grader | Tier for This Card | Fee per Card | Max Declared Value | Posted Turnaround |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA | Standard | $59.99 | $1,000 | 90-100 business days |
| BGS | Express (subgrades included) | $79.95 | Not published | 15 business days |
| CGC | Economy | $20.00 | $1,000 | 90 working days |
Note: Fees and turnaround times as posted on each grader’s own site on October 12, 2026, for the cheapest open single-card tier that covers this card’s value. PSA’s Value tiers (Value Bulk, Value, Value Plus and Value Max) have been paused since June 2, 2026. Beckett has paused its Base and Standard tiers, so Express is the only open BGS tier. CGC’s Bulk tier requires a 25-card minimum, so it is not used for single-card math.
Let’s break this down for Squirtle #148. Each grader’s tier is set by the card’s graded value, which keeps all three in their entry tiers here. PSA’s Value tiers have been paused since June 2, 2026, so the cheapest open option is Standard at $59.99, with a posted turnaround of 90-100 business days. Beckett has paused its Base and Standard tiers, leaving Express at $79.95, the most expensive option but also the fastest at 15 business days. It is also the only one of the three whose fee includes subgrades, which can be a draw for some collectors, even if it doesn’t seem to be reflected in the Squirtle #148 market data.
CGC’s Economy tier is the cheapest of the three at $20.00 for cards up to $1,000, but its posted turnaround is 90 working days; its Standard tier ($55.00) cuts that to 10 working days. On total cost, CGC presents a compelling case, even if PSA currently commands a far higher resale premium for this specific card. The key takeaway here is that if cost is paramount, CGC is a strong contender. If maximizing resale value for Squirtle #148 is the goal, PSA’s higher fee is still worth it.
| Grade | Sold median | Tier & fee | Turnaround | Profit | ROI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSA 10 | $460 | Standard $59.99 | 90-100 business days | $220.24 | 127.0% |
| CGC 10 | $195 | Economy $20.00 | 90 working days | $30.34 | 22.7% |
| BGS 9.5 | $135 | Express $79.95 | 15 business days | −$81.88 | -42.3% |
Fees from each grader's own site, checked Oct 12, 2026. PSA's Value tiers are paused. Beckett is taking Express submissions only. eBay trading-card fee: 13.25% up to $7,500, 2.35% above, plus $0.40 per order. Shipping is an estimate. Prices are recent sold medians. The tier is set by the card's value; PSA publishes no fee above $10,000.
The ROI Math for Each Grader
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of profitability. To truly understand which grading service offers the best return on investment (ROI) for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown, we need to factor in the cost of the raw card, the grading fee, shipping, and eBay’s trading card fee (13.25% of the sale plus $0.40 per order). This is where the market data truly comes to life, showing us which path leads to the most money in our pockets. The math uses each grader’s cheapest open tier for the card’s graded value: $59.99 for PSA Standard, $79.95 for BGS Express and $20.00 for CGC Economy, plus an estimated $5.00 to ship the slab to the buyer.
PSA 10
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Raw Cost: $113.42
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Grading Fee (PSA Standard, the cheapest open tier for a $460.00 card): $59.99
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eBay Fee (13.25% of $460.00 + $0.40 per order): $61.35
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Shipping to Buyer (estimate): $5.00
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Total Cost: $113.42 + $59.99 = $173.41
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Net Sale Proceeds: $460.00 - $61.35 - $5.00 = $393.65
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Net Expected Profit: $393.65 - $173.41 = $220.24
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Expected ROI: 127.0%
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Break-even Raw Price: $333.66
BGS 9.5
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Raw Cost: $113.42
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Grading Fee (BGS Express, the only open Beckett tier): $79.95
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eBay Fee (13.25% of $134.74 + $0.40 per order): $18.25
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Shipping to Buyer (estimate): $5.00
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Total Cost: $113.42 + $79.95 = $193.37
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Net Sale Proceeds: $134.74 - $18.25 - $5.00 = $111.49
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Net Expected Profit: $111.49 - $193.37 = -$81.88
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Expected ROI: -42.3%
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Break-even Raw Price: $31.54
CGC 10
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Raw Cost: $113.42
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Grading Fee (CGC Economy, the cheapest single-card tier for a $195.00 card): $20.00
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eBay Fee (13.25% of $195.00 + $0.40 per order): $26.24
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Shipping to Buyer (estimate): $5.00
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Total Cost: $113.42 + $20.00 = $133.42
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Net Sale Proceeds: $195.00 - $26.24 - $5.00 = $163.76
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Net Expected Profit: $163.76 - $133.42 = $30.34
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Expected ROI: 22.7%
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Break-even Raw Price: $143.76
Based purely on these ROI calculations for Squirtle #148, PSA 10 is the undeniable winner. It offers the highest net profit ($220.24) and ROI (127.0%), and the highest break-even raw price ($333.66), which leaves the most room on the raw buy-in. BGS 9.5, by these numbers, is not profitable at current median prices and raw card costs, showing a negative ROI (-42.3%). CGC 10 is profitable but with a much smaller margin ($30.34, ROI 22.7%) and a break-even raw price of $143.76, not far above the $113.42 raw median. The substantial premium for a PSA 10 grade for this card makes the investment in grading overwhelmingly favorable.
Which Grader Should You Choose for THIS Card?
For the Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown, the data is clear: you should choose PSA. The market is overwhelmingly rewarding PSA 10 grades for this specific card, as evidenced by the massive price premium and the positive ROI calculations. While CGC offers a good value proposition with a lower fee, its current market valuation for Squirtle #148 simply doesn’t match PSA’s. Sending this card to PSA for grading, with the aim of achieving a PSA 10, is the most financially sound strategy if your goal is to maximize profit. The number of transactions for PSA 10s (25) compared to BGS 9.5 (6) and even CGC 10 (23) further supports this, indicating higher market liquidity and demand for PSA’s top grade on this particular card.
However, there are edge cases where another grader might make sense. If you pulled a truly flawless Squirtle #148 with immaculate centering and no hint of surface flaws, and you were aiming for a BGS 9.5 with the hope of achieving a Black Label (though statistically rare), you might consider BGS. But given the current market data for this card, the risk associated with BGS’s lower premium is substantial. If you’re primarily interested in a cheaper slab to display or trade within your local game store community, CGC’s lower fee and decent premium could be a consideration. But for pure investment and resale value in the broader market, PSA is the definitive choice for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown.
When to Use Each Grader in General
While our focus has been on Squirtle #148, understanding the general strengths of each grading company is vital for any collector navigating the hobby. Each grader has carved out its niche and appeals to different segments of the collecting world, and these general trends can sometimes override card-specific market anomalies.
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PSA: For modern, mass-market cards where the highest possible grade is paramount for resale value, PSA remains the go-to. Its brand recognition is unmatched, and a PSA 10 often commands the highest resale ceiling, particularly for popular Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and mainstream sports cards. If you’re aiming for the absolute peak of market value on a widely desired card, PSA is usually the primary consideration.
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BGS: Beckett Grading Services (BGS) is often favored by collectors who appreciate the detailed subgrades they provide. While they can achieve incredibly high premiums for their Pristine 10s and Black Labels, their standard 9.5 grade doesn’t always command the same market excitement as a PSA 10, as we saw with Squirtle #148. BGS is strong in vintage sports cards and for collectors who value the granular detail of subgrades and the prestige of their highest tiers.
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CGC: CGC has made significant inroads, particularly in the Pokémon and TCG space, by offering competitive pricing, especially for bulk submissions. Their reputation has grown substantially, and while they might not always reach PSA’s peak premiums for the absolute top tier, their 10 grade is highly respected and often offers a great balance of value, speed, and market acceptance for a wide range of TCGs.
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SGC: Known for its distinctive tuxedo-style label, SGC has traditionally been a strong player in vintage sports cards. They offer a classic aesthetic and have a dedicated following, especially among collectors who appreciate the older, more established grading companies. Their grading tiers are well-defined, and they provide a solid option for those who value tradition and a specific visual appeal for their graded cards.
Where to Source This Card
If you’re looking to add Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown to your collection or to grade, finding the right source is crucial. The raw card market can vary, and purchasing graded cards often requires careful comparison shopping.
For those looking to acquire raw copies to potentially send for grading or to complete a set, online marketplaces are your best bet. TCGPlayer is a fantastic resource for organized TCGs, offering a wide selection from numerous sellers, which can help you find competitive pricing and compare condition descriptions.
Browse raw copies on TCGPlayer
If you’re specifically interested in purchasing graded copies, especially PSA 10s which command the highest premiums for Squirtle #148, eBay remains the dominant platform. You can find active auctions and “Buy It Now” listings from a vast array of sellers. It’s always wise to check sold listings to gauge fair market value and examine seller reviews to ensure a smooth transaction.
Check active PSA-graded listings on eBay
Pro Tip: When buying raw cards for grading, pay close attention to the centering and edge conditions. Even minor imperfections like a speck of whitening on an edge or slightly off-center corners can prevent a card from achieving a perfect grade, significantly impacting its potential resale value. Always assume a card might not gem up unless you can inspect it in person or the seller provides exceptionally clear, high-resolution photos of all four sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the raw median price for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown?
The raw median sold price for Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown over the last 90 days was $113.42. This is the benchmark against which graded card premiums are measured in our analysis.
How much does it cost to grade Squirtle #148 with PSA?
PSA’s Value tiers have been paused since June 2, 2026, so the cheapest open tier for Squirtle #148 is Standard at $59.99 per card (declared values up to $1,000). This cost, combined with shipping and potential eBay fees, contributes to the overall profitability calculations.
Is grading Squirtle #148 with CGC profitable in 2026?
Yes, grading Squirtle #148 with CGC and achieving a CGC 10 is profitable, but with a significantly lower margin than PSA. The net expected profit is $30.34 (ROI 22.7%) at CGC’s $20.00 Economy tier, with a break-even raw price of $143.76, a modest buffer over the card’s $113.42 raw median.
Which grade of Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown yields the highest ROI?
A PSA 10 grade of Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown yields the highest ROI, calculated at 127.0% based on current market data and PSA’s cheapest open tier. This significantly outperforms BGS 9.5 and CGC 10 in terms of return on investment for this specific card.
Should I submit my Squirtle #148 to BGS?
Based on current 2026 market data and the ROI calculations, submitting your Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown to BGS for a 9.5 grade is not recommended if your goal is profit. The BGS 9.5 median sale price of $134.74 results in a negative ROI when factoring in grading and selling costs.
What are the key differences between PSA and CGC for this card?
The key differences for Squirtle #148 lie in market premium and turnaround time. PSA 10s command a much higher resale price ($460.00 median) and offer a higher ROI, while CGC grades at a lower cost ($20.00 Economy, posted at 90 working days) and still achieves a respectable $195.00 median for a CGC 10.
This deep dive into the Squirtle #148 Illustration Rare Pokemon Stellar Crown market reveals a clear hierarchy among grading services. Understanding these nuances is critical for making informed decisions that maximize your collection’s value. For more insights into card grading and market trends, explore our comprehensive guides.
Ready to take your card grading strategy to the next level? Check out our essential guide on card grading for a deeper understanding of the process, or dive into the specifics of the Pokemon Cards market to stay ahead of the curve.