PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator)
A leading service for grading and authenticating trading cards and collectibles, providing a trusted stamp of approval on the condition and authenticity of the items.
Why It Works
PSA dominates its market with around 70% market share, offering a crucial service in an industry where trust and verification are essential for transactions.
Revenue & Traction
PSA has a backlog of $400 million in orders, indicating strong demand for its grading services.
Founding Story
Nat Turner purchased PSA to modernize the grading process and reduce the backlog, aiming to leverage technology for efficiency in grading collectible cards.
Business Playbook
Focuses on building a trusted brand that collectors rely on for grading, combined with a vault service for storing high-value cards.
Additional Information
PSA's dominance is enhanced by network effects, where the value of graded cards increases when they are certified by a respected authority like PSA.
Source
Podcast: My First Million
Episode: We found an app that lets you buy anything for $0
Creation Date: June 24, 2026
Ideas worth reading next
Mailbox Masonry Repair
A masonry business focused on repairing brick mailboxes, particularly in neighborhoods where such structures are common. This business capitalizes on small jobs that larger masonry companies often overlook.
Moonlight Commercial Cleaning
A commercial cleaning business that operates after hours, providing cleaning services to restaurants and bars. The company grew quickly by leveraging existing networks and social media for client acquisition.
Housekeeping Services for Assisted Living Facilities
Expanding cleaning services to include housekeeping for assisted living facilities, addressing a growing demand for reliable housekeeping in these environments.
More case studies
Andrew's Masonry Business
A business focused on repairing and rebuilding brick mailboxes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
David's Christmas Light Business
A seasonal service that installs Christmas lights for residential clients.
Derek's Plant Bingo
An event business that organizes bingo games where participants win plants.