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Jason Lis on the right track, I think...it's not the grade itself, or probably even the card itself, that draws the attention or the ire,...I think it simply has come to symbolize a division. A division of tastes, a division of budgets and financial capability...a division of the very peoples involved!!! (Say this part in your best televangelist voice)
Of course there is nothing wrong with a vintage (or otherwise) PSA 8 card. Many many folk would prefer to have one, if given the chance. Most people cannot afford them. Jealousy and envy are natural emotions that are evoked in those who don't have the financial means to obtain these cards. So those who are uncomfortable with having to relegate their collecting habits to affordable endeavors have to also dial down their tastes, if they can, and tell themselves they are happy with less. When that doesn't happen smoothly, you get unbecoming behaviors. Conversely, the opposite can be true of high grade collectors with financial means to out-spend most folk, and sometimes you get bahaviors that are arrogant or without understanding of those who would accept less for thier collection.
It's a class struggle. Pure and simple. The mutual loathing of each other for the have's and the have-nots continues in the world of card collecting!
I lost an Ebay auction for a gorgeous lower-grade T206 Lajoie w/bat last night. I was out of my league and my uncharacteristic bidding history tells that tale...I was surprised by the escalating price, and I was torn between wanting that card (real BAD!), and my own financial limits...sucks, but you gotta live to fight another day...
Hopefully most people can at least understand THAT, and respect it...
Of course, I want PSA 8 cards, but I will take the best that I can get, emphasis on I...