If the item is mechanically damaged after issue it has to be downgraded. If the manufacturing process causes the damage, that is a good question. I guess you could argue it either way if the item was stapled to the carton or bag. But would that mean that a specimen that had never been stapled should be considered not as-issued and therefore only get an "A" grade?
I know that I had a lengthy discussion with SGC some years ago over the back stamps on certain T cards issued in Cali (T223-T229 Pet/Kopec but I believe it also affects some Obaks) that were actually factory stamped on their backs. Eventually, SGC properly agreed that when those cards were presented they would not be downgraded for the stamping but are instead noted on the flip as stamped.
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