Cracker Jack: Mis-aligned and Staining Issues

[GregMitch34]

I'm wondering how collectors generally view the fairly common CJ issue of images slightly "tilted" left or right. The grading companies don't seem to dock them, even on higher grade cards, but do they tend to be harder to sell and/or take a cut in value?

In a related issue: grading companies have been horribly inconsistent on the issue of staining on the CJ 14s. But have you found that good cards--let's say graded 4 and above--that have pretty prominent staining get docked on price, or do most people just go with the grade? Thanks.

[GregMitch34]

Interestingly, I see an REA write-up on a Wagner card, 1915 CJ, saying that it's graded a 6 but would be a 7 or even an 8 if not for "slight tilt" to image. Is this common assessment?

[Leon]

I am familiar with the misalignment type cards, if the 2 end ones are what you are referring to? I like them but most collectors might not. As for the staining on '14 Cracker Jacks goes, I don't think the TPG's count off as much as they normally would because it has to do with the way they were distributed. Sort of like the "stamped back" designation now commonly given to some Obaks, Contentnea's etc...

[GregMitch34]

Presume you mean the Collins and Comiskey, not the end ones that are miscut...

I can see that staining often not docked much--except when it is...Can see two almost identical cards where one loses a couple grade and another really stained one sails through...

[CW]

Interestingly, I see an REA write-up on a Wagner card, 1915 CJ, saying that it's graded a 6 but would be a 7 or even an 8 if not for "slight tilt" to image. Is this common assessment?

This is more likely just a common catalog write-up intended to generate interest in the card. Sure, it's possible the card would've graded higher, but it's unlikely the tilt was the sole reason in was dinged a grade or two. It is not uncommon to find a CJ card with a slight tilt (similar to the tilted image in the Mordecai Brown in the image I attached below -- not my card, btw). I avoided that Brown auction, despite everything else being beautiful on that card, because of the tilt.

I'm wondering how collectors generally view the fairly common CJ issue of images slightly "tilted" left or right. The grading companies don't seem to dock them, even on higher grade cards, but do they tend to be harder to sell and/or take a cut in value?

It's a tough question to answer, because there are different levels of tilt, and collectors will have varying tolerances for tilt.

But have you found that good cards--let's say graded 4 and above--that have pretty prominent staining get docked on price, or do most people just go with the grade?

I wouldn't say stained cards necessarily get docked on price, but collectors will pay a premium over regular market prices for a card with no staining.

[rainier2004]

Chuck - That Brown looks like it has more than a tilt there as those borders look uneven to me even if factory cut.

It seems a lot of CJs do have that tilt and I havent seen affect low-mid grade CJs. The staining is a crapshoot but psa sure seems tougher on it than sgc, ask Jared!

[CW]

Chuck - That Brown looks like it has more than a tilt there as those borders look uneven to me even if factory cut.


Now that you point it out, I have to agree. Maybe not the best example of a tilt on a CJ. I wasn't sure if the cut was funky or the card was tilted in the holder a bit.

[Bosox Blair]

I have more tolerance for stains on '14s, for sure. If they are really obtrusive though, I'll just avoid the card.

[rainier2004]

I was going to ask everyone about about the "halo" stains as Ive named them. They cover the players head. Ive had a few, sold all but the Crawford. Also, definitely agree with being more lenient with e145 staining than the 1915s. I like some staining, makes me think of a kid pulling it out of the box.

[RichR]

I've found that prices do tend to be weaker on heavily stained cards and on cards that are tilted.

I also agree that staining on the 1914 set doesn't generate as much of a hit on pricing.

I personally avoid heavy staining on either set but I'll buy slightly off center cards all day long at the right price (as long as the rest of the card is sharp) :)