I think SMR is all over the map and try to use completed sales and VCP. When it comes to half grades I just compare the specimen in question to the surrounding graded examples on VCP or anywhere I can get scans. If it compares favorably to the next grade up, looking just like or exceeding those examples in eye appeal, then I think paying anything under what the grade up costs is a great value.
For example, I've seen 8.5s of cards that look just like 9s to my eye-- and if I have to pay way higher than an 8, but still less than the 9, I'm cool with that. Conversely, if a .5 card doesn't look much better than the usual examples at the next lower whole grade, I can't see spending more just to have a card with a higher sticker/grade. All about the card, end of the day.
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