CGC & CBCS Labels: Quick Guide
This guide covers the most common label types you’ll see on graded comics. On the CGC side: Universal (standard grading), Signature Series (witnessed signature), CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph (authenticated unwitnessed signature), and Qualified labels. On the CBCS side: CBCS Certified (standard grading) plus CBCS Signature labels—where the label text typically reads Witnessed Signature or Verified Signature. We’ll also cover how sketch covers/remarques are usually described in the label text.
CGC labels
CGC Universal (Blue) — standard grading
This is CGC’s standard label for a comic graded on its condition (most commonly used for unsigned books). The label shows the grade and key identifying details—often including things like the issue/variant, notable credits (writer/artist/cover artist), and/or other important notes CGC includes for the book.
CGC Signature Series (Yellow) — witnessed signature
CGC Signature Series labels are used when a signature is witnessed through CGC’s authorized signing process. The label text states who signed the book and the date it was signed (and sometimes the event/location).
If original art is added during the witnessed signing—such as a sketch, remarque, or “head sketch”—the label typically notes this as “SIGNED & SKETCH” (wording can vary).
CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph (Black/Yellow) — authenticated signature
This label is used when a signature was not witnessed at the time of signing, but is authenticated through JSA’s independent autograph authentication and then encapsulated/graded by CGC. The label text identifies who signed the book and states AUTHENTICATED AUTOGRAPH.
CGC Qualified (Green) — exception noted
CGC’s Qualified label is used when there’s a significant exception that CGC calls out on the label. One of the most common reasons collectors see a green label is an unwitnessed signature—historically, signed-but-unwitnessed books were frequently encapsulated with a green Qualified label and the signature noted on the label text. Today, CGC’s CGC x JSA Authentic Autograph label provides a separate path for authenticated unwitnessed signatures.
Tip: Always read the label notes on green labels—the note is the point.
CBCS labels
CBCS Certified (Blue) — standard grading
This is CBCS’s standard label for a comic graded on its condition (a “standard submission”). The label shows the grade and key identifying details/notes—often including things like the issue/variant and important credits or other information CBCS includes for the book.
CBCS Signature (Yellow) — witnessed signature
This label is used when a signature (and/or original art on a sketch cover) is witnessed by a CBCS authorized witness under CBCS’s signature rules. The label text typically states Witnessed Signature and identifies who signed the book and the date signed.
If the book includes original art (sketch cover/remarque) handled under the same witnessing process, CBCS will often use a yellow ART label and note the art details on the label text.
CBCS Verified Signature (Red) — unwitnessed signature
This label is used when a signature was not witnessed at the time of signing, but is later verified / authenticated through CBCS’s signature verification process. The label text typically states Verified Signature and identifies who signed the book and the date signed.
Note: In more recent years, CBCS moved Verified Signature books from the older red label to a yellow label that still clearly states Verified Signature.
CBCS ART (Yellow) — sketch covers and remarques
CBCS may use a yellow ART label when a graded book includes original art, such as a sketch or a remarque. The label text will note the presence of the art and often identifies the artist and/or what was added. ART labels can appear alongside CBCS’s signature designations (for example, a witnessed signing with original art).
Quick buyer checklist (what to look for)
1) Read the label text first (not just the color).
The key info is in the wording: Universal / Certified, Signature Series / Witnessed Signature, Authenticated Autograph, or Verified Signature — plus any notes about missing items, writing, or restoration.
2) If it’s signed, confirm how the signature was handled.
Look for the label wording that matches what you’re buying:
- Witnessed (signed in front of an authorized witness)
- Authenticated / Verified (confirmed after signing by a verification/authentication process)
3) Check for original art on the label.
Sketch covers and remarques are usually called out in the label text, and may appear under an ART label (CBCS) or be noted as SIGNED & SKETCH (CGC).
4) Verify the certification number.
Use the grader’s certification lookup (CGC or CBCS) to confirm the slab number matches the book and label details.
5) Green/Qualified labels: the note is the point.
If you’re looking at a CGC Qualified (Green) label, read the exception carefully— don’t buy it based on the grade alone.
Questions about a specific slab in our inventory?
If you’re unsure what a label or designation means, contact us before you buy — we’re happy to help you interpret the label details.