Grading companies are businesses. They pay bills. That being said, they also influence the hobby and the card market. Obviously, the Ruth is better. (given the back is similar to the front). The Ruth probably belonged to some guy, who inherited it from his dad or grandfather, and wanted to sell it. Probably sent it in to SCG to give his card authenticity for a decent sale. SCG does not recognize this man's name, and probably knows what he's up to, and slaps a ridiculously low grade on it. The owner need not care, as he will fetch a pretty penny anyways, plus, he probably doesn't know any better.
Now, a dealer or company, on the other hand, probably spends a great portion of their revenue on sending old cards in to the grading companies. Obviously, when SGC or PSA has a 5 star client, they now can "pay the bills" and may not shy away from leaning towards higher grades, in general.... Problem with this, is that one grade higher or lower can mean the difference in somebody making a mortgage payment with that card, or losing their total investment.
You say, pay for the card, not the grade. That's only easy to do when you've already got 3 or 4 of that particular example. For the average Tom, Dick, or Harry collector, a $1,000 card means their chips are "all in" and can't afford any mulligans. Some would say to take your Ruth out, send it in again, or just leave it out. Either way, the grade disgraces the card. ( again, given the back is ok. )
So I guess what I'm saying is, I think if you take care of the grading companies, they will take care of you. Just my thoughts. Thanks!
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