Posted By:
davidcyclebackI've not been overly interested in the recent posts about about forming a ethics group/membership/rules, but think it is a good idea if it concerns people. I don't if any headway has been made, but think it's mostly a matter of getting things done.
I assume the main part is to have a reasonable and agreed upon set of ethics rules concerning restoration, disclosure, and perhaps other pressing topics, having a overseeing group and allowing dealers, auction houses join or agree to the rules and they get a seal of approval. There would be methods to enforce, oversee, etc. The rules would have to be fair to dealers and auctioneer, otherwise they won't join. Being a member in good standing would be a positive for the dealer, as they won't be picked willy nilly and it can give customers confidence.
If people have ideas, details, rules, they can email them to me. I will look them over, discuss with those involved, come up with form formal ideas and let people discuss them. Other collecting groups, including autographs and fine art prints, have similar associations and ethics rules-- so it has been done before.
I'm not an active sports card collector or investor, don't collect or hold special allegiance to or employment by PSA, SGC, Beckett or other grader authenticator or authenticator. I can also, if needed, web host the association's page and info of my web site, which is an informational site and commercial free (www.cycleback.com).
I mostly see having an agreed upon, good and fair set of rules that people can agree to (join) or not agree to (their choice, no one's forcing anyone). Then there is a group of credible people over over see entity-- who is picked to join, watching to see if folks are following the rules, checking to make sure members are reputable, etc. There would be no fines, for force or anything like that.
My email is linked above, and if anyone wishes to send me ideas I will look them over. I will also come up with my own ideas, which others of course are welcome to approve or disapprove.
I'm willing to get this done, but will drop the issue if there is lack of interest.
Thanks
David