[hcv123]

I agree with a number of opinions already offered here:

1) The price and how it was arrived at doesn't matter. When I am buying raw cards, a seller will not be able to get past the first sentence if they are trying to price "as if" it were graded. I am always paying significantly less for a raw card - there are just too many possible risks (even if it weren't altered) - grading company inconsistency at the top of the list. My response if the seller (on either side of the table) begins "well, a 6 sells for...." is I am not paying a graded price for a raw card. If you want to come back with it in a 6 holder, I'm happy to continue the conversation.

2) If I am buying a card valued over $100 raw, you can bet my ruler, my loupe and a common card from the same set are coming out and that card is going to get a thorough look. If a customer pulls out any or all of the above - not only is it a non-issue, I appreciate seeing it, because it tells me they are taking a lot of care to not write a similar story to this one. If I have a card that I know to be altered, I disclose it and price accordingly.


3) The above and some of the commentary in the thread hopefully will leave you forearmed in the future, but what is "right" in your current situation? As Ryan suggested, I think it is very reasonable for you to approach the dealer and explain the unfolding of events, asking (NOT expecting) if they are willing to do anything about the situation. As has been offered in numerous posts, they are under no obligation to do a thing. If they do offer something - you have to decide whether you prefer to keep the Mantle or take what they offer. If they are unwilling to do anything, write it off as an expensive learning experience and consider whether you want to do business with them in the future.

4) I buy and sell a lot of raw and graded cards. I do not check every single raw card I buy and sell. That said, I ABSOLUTELY check every single raw Mantle (and most cards valued at $100+) that I buy!

5) If you are having a difference of opinion in a conversation like "I think it will grade a ......" and you are willing to take the risk - you may ask for a guarantee of a numeric grade VS. a "No/A" grade. No dealer in their right mind is going to guarantee a specific grade, but some may be willing to guarantee a "number" grade without guaranteeing what the number is. (some may only be willing to do so if you allow them to send the card in - along the lines of the guarantee Scott offers). No have to's on either side- all negotiation.

Sorry you are in the situation. Best of luck with resolution.