CGC Census & Population Report
The census answers a question that drives prices more than almost anything else: how rare is your comic in this grade? Here's what the population report tracks and how to use it.
What the census is
The CGC census — also called the population report — is a running count of every comic CGC has graded, sorted by issue and by grade. For any given book, it tells you how many copies have been certified at each point on the 0.5–10.0 scale. It's the hobby's go-to reference for high-grade scarcity.
How to read a population report
- Look up the issue, then scan the counts across grades.
- Few copies at the top grades (9.6, 9.8, 9.9, 10.0) = high-grade scarcity, which supports premiums.
- A large population at high grade tends to soften prices at the top.
- Counts grow over time as more copies are submitted — today's "scarce" can shift.
What it does (and doesn't) tell you
The census measures graded scarcity — it doesn't count raw books, copies in other holders, or unsubmitted collections. So treat it as a strong signal, not an absolute survival count. Pair it with recent sales and the label type to read value accurately.
Using census data for value
Scarcity at a grade is one of the biggest value drivers, alongside the issue's significance. For key issues, see first-appearance comics to invest in and our value-by-grade pages like Amazing Fantasy #15. To estimate value for your own copy, start with what is my comic worth and the value estimator.
Know your grade tier first
Census data is only useful once you know which grade tier your copy falls into. Run it through the AI comic book grader for an instant estimate, then look up how scarce that grade is for your issue.
Frequently asked questions
What is the CGC census?
The CGC census (or population report) is a public tally of how many copies of each comic CGC has graded, broken down by grade. It shows how many examples of a given issue exist at, say, 9.8 versus 6.0, making it a key reference for rarity in high grade.
How do I read a population report?
Find the issue, then look at the count at each grade. A low number at the top grades means high-grade scarcity, which usually supports a premium. Rising counts over time can indicate more copies entering the market.
Does the census show every copy that exists?
No. It only counts copies CGC has graded — not raw books, copies in other holders, or ungraded collections. So it measures graded scarcity, not absolute scarcity.
How does population data affect value?
Scarcity at a grade is a major price driver. A book with very few copies graded above a certain level can command a steep premium at the top, while a high population at high grade tends to cap prices. Combine census data with recent sales for the clearest read.
How do I use the census when buying or selling?
Check how many copies exist at your grade and just above it. If yours sits at a scarce tier, that supports a stronger ask; if the population is high, price competitively. Pre-grading with AI first tells you which tier your copy is likely in.
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