Question of Grading & Sales Value

[xdrx]

I have a dozen 1959 Topps commons (all Dodgers) that I would grade at 8+. That gives them an SMR value of $25+.

What I'm trying to come to grips with is (1) is my opinion on grading correct, and (2) if they are 8+ is it very likely to get the SMR value for them?

If they are graded 7s instead of 8s the SMR is $12. Current SGC monthly special is $5/card for these, so even 7s wouldn't be horrible. But if they grade below 7 it is a total waste of effort. These cards seem to generally sell for <$5 in VG-EX (raw) condition, so I really don't know if even strong grades will be worth much.

What do you all think? The upside, of course, is that some grade higher than 8, which can double or triple the SMR.

Here is an example of one of the worst cards (OC). A bit hard to see, but corners are sharp and card basically looks new to me:

http://i826.photobucket.com/albums/zz182/11k22/59stanwilliams.jpg

Thanks for any thoughts or opinions. Not a huge deal at the end of the day, but I'm just trying to do the smart thing with these cards relative to grading and selling because I think I've largely missed the mark in that respect on a bunch of stuff I've moved so far.

[vintagetoppsguy]

Dean,

I think your expectations are a bit too high. Personally I would grade that Williams card a SGC 80 (6) due to centering and corner wear. I see some light touches on the corners, but it could be the scan. When asking opinions about the condition of cards, it's better to scan them against a black background. Also, I don't think you would get SMR on them no matter the grade. Your best bet is to use VCP.

One other thing I want to point out is your Duke Snider card in another thread. I think that card is more VG (3) and I really don't think you're going to get any bids on it. The last SGC 3 sold on eBay for $40 w/ free shipping.

http://www.ebay.com/csc/i.html?rt=nc&LH_Complete=1&_nkw=1954%20topps%20duke%20snider%20psa%203&_dmpt=US_Baseball&_fln=1&_trksid=p3286.c0.m283

I believe yours has a bit too much corner wear to grade any higher. I also see 3 hairline creases on the back. Two one the left border and one on the right. Look at the left border between the words "YEAR" and "LIFE" and you will see it. There is another one just below that, although a bit more faint. Now look at the right border. There is a crease running through the word "RECORD." These will keep it from grading any higher than a 3 in my opinion. Anyway, I'm just trying to be honest with you. Good luck.

http://i826.photobucket.com/albums/zz182/11k22/27/54dukeback.jpg


Edited to add: Here is another '54 Snider that one of our fellow board members just sold for $28
http://www.collectorfocus.com/images/show/SlantyCouch/for-sale-items/3083/1954-topps-snider

http://www.collectorfocus.com/collection/SlantyCouch/for-sale-items

[xdrx]

David, thanks for the thoughtful and honest reply - definitely appreciated. I don't disagree on the 54 Snider in terms of price, maybe hoping to get lucky at $55 (and I think I might like the card a little too much). I just keep being surprised by things selling above and below what I expect. I think my frustration is actually less about the money and more about my basic competitive nature -- I should be able to figure this out and make smart business decisions.

I'm also coming to realize that my eyes are shot...at 43 I'm pretty sure I need bifocals! Maybe those who look at cards every day have a 3 or 5x loupe or something similar at hand?

[vintagetoppsguy]

I'm also coming to realize that my eyes are shot...at 43 I'm pretty sure I need bifocals! Maybe those who look at cards every day have a 3 or 5x loupe or something similar at hand?

I just turned 40 back in June and my eyes aren't too far behind yours :D

Yes, most who grade have a loop. I use an 8X lighted loop. You can pick them up pretty cheap. I bought mine from my local BB card store.

[mintacular]

Looks like a "7 o/c". Off-centering should eliminate off the bat cards that are subbable. In terms of resale, 8s or higher would be needed to make back any grading fees. Also, as a general wear if you can see wear on the corners basically you won't get higher than a 7, also look for print defects in the background of 59s and always check backs carefully too although they don't need to be centered. In short, if it isn't pack-fresh or extremely close to it with nice centering probably not worth grading...