W cards that are not "hand cut"
 

For years PSA has been putting "hand cut" on their labels for all W cards. I've seen a few without them, not sure why. Now it seems that SGC has joined in this. I have no problem putting "hand cut" on the slabs of W cards that are indeed hand cut, but why on W502, W554, or W-572-2 to name a few? Those sets are not hand cut strip cards. Why can't the grading companies take the time to recognize or know the difference? :confused:

Hand cut?
 

I was wondering the same thing. It also seems inconsistent in that some W cards get number grades while some get "authentic" and no number. Some of the cards with number grades look hand cut or trimmed to me.

The truly hand cut cards will get a number grade if it's determined it meets the size requirement, & authentic if cut too small or poorly. However, I've seen cards that are obviously too small with numerical grades, & cards that look like they should have a numerical grade, but have only authentic with no explanation. Some of my favorite sets are W cards, so the inconsistency of the grading companies drives me crazy. Especially putting "hand cut" on sets that are not hand cut (W502, W554, W575-2, etc...). I'm going to start to collect more ungraded W cards. After decades of looking at cards, I now know if they are authentic or not. Better prices, & more enjoyable this way.

Exhibits are also technically "W" cards. Maybe the graders will start adding "handcut" to Exhibit slabs too.

That's the exact reason I am scared to get my w575-1 Eddie Collins Keating Candy (no hole punch), graded.
I don't want to get an "Authentic" on it, I want a number grade. I don't care what number it is, I just don't want "Authintic".