Base Set 2 Dratini #38: PSA 9 vs PSA 10
On Base Set 2 Dratini #38, the PSA 10 premium is a wide gem-mint premium: PSA 10 sells for 3.2x a PSA 9, a $41 delta. Based on the most recent PSA 10 sale of $59.00 on Mar 16, 2026, the math leans toward holding the 9: expected value turns negative at conservative upgrade probabilities once the resub fee is in.
PSA 10
$59.00
Last sale $59.00 on
PSA 9
$18.50
Last sale $18.50 on
PSA 8
$24.00
Last sale $24.00 on
The Spread
The PSA 9 to PSA 10 spread on Dratini #38 Base Set 2.
$41
Dollar gap, PSA 9 to PSA 10
3.2x
PSA 10 sells for 3.2x a PSA 9
Three-Outcome EV Calculator
15%
70%
15%
Defaults are conservative starting points. Adjust based on the specific slab. A borderline 9 with strong centering plays differently than a 9 with edge wear.
PSA 10 outcome (sale price minus resub minus acquisition)
$0
PSA 9 outcome (regrade, no upgrade)
$0
PSA 8 outcome (downgrade, slower sell, tied capital)
$0
Expected Value
$0
Math favors holding the 9
Base Set 2 #38 Dratini released in 2000 sits in the vintage WOTC tier where gem-mint premiums above $41 are common. PSA 10 populations shrink faster than supply on cards of this era, which is why the upgrade arbitrage stays alive.
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