Jim -- that is my point
And there is nothing negative intended here to Legendary/Mastro/Silk Road intended. Rather; I actually wonder if that is way auctions houses "should go"; whether auction houses should make that a profit center (if even it is small); and whether auction houses can make profits in other ways (Just think is Mastro had sold their old shipping tape they used)
I think it is currently standard for most auction houses to "eat" grading charges; but is that really the best business policy. Remember; most auction houses are now only making money on pre-graded cards from the buyer as in most cases the seller is selling the card without a commission.
I don't know the answer to this question -- but I'm curious as to "profit center" or break even -- and did every card that was sent in "HAVE" to be graded.
And I guarantee you; if we have had two people mention those grading fees; I would wager there have been others. Another question would be, if you had to send a "bat" or "uniform" to a grading service. Again; does the auction house have to eat those charges.
I'll give you an example -- and I'd love to hear responses from those who might sell this item (and yes, this is self serving).
I have a NJ Generals (USFL team) Jacket which was issued to Maurice Carthon and signed by him. I bought the Jacket in the 1980's from a friend of mine who supposedly bought out the Generals of their jackets and my Beckett buddy Theo Chen got me the autograph sometime around 1996. Now; if I gave that item to an auction house; should THEY have to pay for both authentications or should I pay for that as part of their services. Or is there a middle ground. Again; I DO NOT know the answer; but I consider that an interesting question for the experts.
Regards
Rich
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