[ls7plus]

As many of you know, I have studied the coin field for about the last 20 years, having becoming interested in the common trends going through that hobby and ours. In a 2011 book authored by Q. David Bowers, a highly reputable figure in coins since the 1950's, and likely that field's most proflic author, I came across the fact that in 2007, a new service was launched by John Albanese, also a highly respected figure in coins. That service, the Collectors Acceptance Corporation ("CAC"), independently reviews coins that have already been graded by various third party grading services. If CAC believe a coin has been correctly graded and is of premium quality within that technical grade, it is given a CAC sticker reflecting the latter certification. Apparently, CAC's service has thus far been very well received within the coin marketplace.

Now I know that those members of this board who are already opposed to third party grading services aren't going to care for still another level of grading in this manner, and while I disagree with their position, I would be the last to say they are not absolutely entitled to their opinion. But I was wondering what the rest of you would think about such a service in cards?

And reading about CAC also led me to recall the chapter in Dave Jamieson's 2010 book, "Mint Condition," dealing with Kevin Saucier, a 44-year old corporate risk manager, whom Jamieson characterizes a "arguably the hobby's most eminent and outspoken card doctor." Saucier never alters cards for profit, but is on a crusade to show that significant card alterations can and are making it successfully past the grading companies. Per Jamieson, many collectors believe Saucier is performing an invaluable service for the hobby. What if Saucier was to open a similar service as CAC, but focused not upon the quality aspects of the card, but instead upon determining whether cards that have already been graded have indeed been altered or not? Eventually the marketplace might demand that very high dollar cards pass Saucier's inspection before making it to auction.

What do you guys think about either of the above?

Regards,

Larry