The first director of authentication was Mike Gutierrez and his name appeared on the full 8"x11" LOAs. I'm not sure when he left, perhaps 2005. Gutierrez had a strong reputation in the autograph hobby, left when he was hired by PSA/DNA then Heritage where he now works. GAI's checkered downhill slope happened after he left. The early years GAI LOA with his name on it is the best and most respected.
In the early days, GAI had Bushing & Knoll for game used, Gutierrez for autographs and was at the top of the heap in unopened pack grading. Some collectors today may not know or recall, but GAI once had a very strong hobby reputation, including in autographs.
Last edited by drc; 05-09-2013 at 04:43 PM.
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