Old collector with a newb question

[bbcard1]

I have collected for many years. I don't collect graded cards...I just don't like the holders and I question the integrity and expertise across the board...but so many cards have been slabbed that I have been buying s few and cracking them out...

Anyhow is a A authentic, altered or both? Seems like I read a lot of auctions that hold up a grade of A as something to be happy about...would a skin grade as an a? A rebacked card?

[Jantz]

When submitting cards to be graded/authenticated, a numerical grade will be given to a card on it's overall condition. If a card has been altered in any way, that meaning trimmed, recolored, skinned/rebacked, rebuilt corners, pin holes, portion of the card is torn off or professionally restored, then a grade of "A" or authentic will be given.

Authentic means that the card is correct for it's time period and not a reprint, but has been altered in some way.

When submitting to SGC, a collector has the option to have the card slabbed or not slabbed if he/she wants, if the card garners a "A" distinction. SGC will not print on the label what the alteration is, whereas PSA will.

Some collectors opt to have the card slabbed anyway if it is deemed Authenic since they are paying the fee regardless.

Hope this answers your question.

Jantz

[drc]

A means the card was not gradable (or the collector asked for A). It usually means the card is altered in some way or form.

For autographed cards, the collector may just be interested in the signature, so there gradable cards are more often given an A. Whether the card grades or a 5 or a 5.5 makes no different to the Mickey Mantle autograph collector.

In some cases, with rare and obscure issues-- like rare stamps-- the graders may not be sure exactly how to assign a grade, so give the A. Obviously, cut out cards (Wheaties, strip cards, etc) are tough to assign a grade.

But, in short, the majority of A-Authentic cards are altered.

Technically, an altered card is grade Poor.

[dstraate]

I do enjoy when Ebayers say "This card has been authenticated by PSA!"

As if that was what they were shooting for. I wonder how many people have pulled the trigger on a card like that thinking they were getting a legit card.

[Matt]

Originally Posted by bbcard1

Seems like I read a lot of auctions that hold up a grade of A as something to be happy about.

you should read that as you would read an advert selling a used mattress describing it as being "well loved."