What if a tough grader and those tiny little spots on back corners that are usually ok for some graders to still give it a 10 might be all 9's for your lucky submission.

For modern cards, a PSA 9 is worth less than raw.

Nobody should attempt to send $30 valued cards to PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) for grading. Here's why:

Cost: The cost to grade cards has increased, and it may not be worth it for lower-valued cards. PSA offers different service levels, and the fees can add up, especially for multiple cards.
Return Date: There is uncertainty about when you'll get the graded cards back. Poor timing can affect the ability to sell the cards for top dollar.
Gem vs. Raw Pricing: Each card has its own value based on its condition. Cards in perfect condition (gem) are worth more than cards in lesser condition (raw). Even a card graded as a 9 can have a different price.
Population: The number of graded copies of a card can affect its value. If there are many copies of the same card, it might not be as valuable.
Future Pricing and Trends: The value of individual cards can change over time, so it's important to consider their likely future pricing. Additionally, trends in grading results can impact the value of similar cards.

Considering these factors, it may not be cost-effective or beneficial to send $30 valued cards to PSA for grading. It's important to carefully evaluate the potential costs and benefits before making a decision.