Ed Mathews good? Affixed sticker?
 

I was going through my older cards and came across this one. Have no idea when or how I got it, just know I didn't buy it.

Is this Ed Mathews legit? The sticker appears to be one of James Spencer which would apparently make this a good autograph? I don't know why it was affixed to the card though.

Thanks.

Looks fine, but jesus that is a shame about the sticker on the back.

Thanks - I agree with the sticker thing. I wonder why?

It was and is common to sticker authenticated cards, especially JSA which has been affiliated with Beckett and SGC at times, but until recently didn't encapsulate cards in house. I have a handful and it's never bothered me mostly because 99% of signed card collectors aren't specifically worried about the card being pristine. It's also worth nothing that if you happened to want to grade that card under PSA or BAS dual service they don't lower the grade because of authentication stickers.

It's a great card and auto. Thanks for sharing!

I appreciate your reply and thanks. I don't really have any interest in having it graded, I am just pleased that it is authentic. I am putting together a 1953 set and will just leave this one in its place.

Jim

If you have a common with the same glaring malady, you'd likely wish to experiment on that one first, but here's something you can do if you find that sticker as unsightly and offensive as some of us tend to feel:

Take some Zippo or Ronson lighter fluid and squirt a portion on top of the sticker, just big enough to cover past the edges. Do not worry that a portion of the fluid gets on the card. The autograph is extremely far away from where you'll be doing this, which is an added bonus. After you've applied the lighter fluid, count to 20 and remove very slowly and carefully. Should come off with no damage. If you feel any "give", STOP, and squirt a tiny bit more between the sticker and the card. Wait another 10 seconds, then try again. The lighter fluid will eventually evaporate and won't leave a stain*. Any smell will also dissipate fairly quickly.

You'll likely be left with some adhesive residue on the back of the card. Let the card fully dry (won't take too long) and rub it with a nylon over your thumb or forefinger to remove as much of it as you can. Trim your nails before doing this (speaking from experience!).

Autograph is fine and vintage.

*This has been my experience, but please do not take it as gospel for every card--especially if a card appears to have any soiling on either side.

Thanks - will try when I am able to. Appreciate it.

Jim