All pins are handmade in China. Pin manufacturing process is handled almost entirely by hand and not by machine. This means that there a “flawless” pin is impossible. Below is a general outline for pin grading.
Please note: that pin batches vary and if a batch has a common flaw, that will be considered standard for that pin
The back and sides of a pin are not considered in the grading process unless the pin is missing a back post. If a pin is missing a backpost, it will be discounted accordingly.
P4Ps are mixed grade only. They will be lightly graded to confirm there are no major flaws such as missing enamel, extreme scratches.
A grades: This is considered a “standard” grade acceptable for presell buyers as well as highest priced pins. A grades are subject to 1-2 minor flaws including but not limited to: pricks, polishing scratches, print misalignment etc. There will be NO facial flaws on A grades. A grades may have flaws that can only be seen by tilting under a light source and cannot be seen from once held at arms length.
B grades: Second best pins. B grades are subject to 2-3 minor flaws including but not limited to: pricks, polishing scratches, print misalignment, under fill, specks, bubbles, over fill etc. There may be minor facial flaws on B grades that do not take away from the pin when displayed. Flaws on B grade may be visible from an arms length.
C Grades: Also known as flawed pins, may have multiple flaws as outlined in B grades in addition to facial flaws, imperfect enamel, misprint/ missing print, etc that are clearly noticeable from an arms length. C grades will be discounted accordingly.
Major flawed Pins:
These pins have multiple flaws as outlined in B and C grades. In addition, they may have large or excessive scratches, large missing enamel, mold flaws, large screen print missing, or broken back posts. These flaws WILL be noticable. Major Flawed sales will be rare and photos of flaws will be posted. MAJOR FLAWED PURCHASES ARE FINAL SALE.