Just how much does condition affect value?

[jasonc]

I always wondered this and it has been discussed before, but haven't really seen anything in detail. If a card is really beat up, multiple creases, soft corners, maybe some writing, paper loss, how would you value a card like this?

One thing I've noticed is the T206 cards, and some 50's topps cards that are in demand usually somebody is still willing to pay about 20 to 30 percent of book. If the card is not in demand then sometimes it is hard to sell for 5% of book.

I know in the past, questions are posed on whether YOU would buy a card like this, but what kind of value would the card be worth.

Personally, if it's a card I want and it is vintage, I am willing to pay a decent percentage of BV for the card. I know because it is "vintage" condition is expected to be a little less then some of the newer cards.

This post would be in regard to raw cards, but I suppose graded could be in the equation when it comes to how much would you pay.

The thing about beat up cards, is the collector has the advantage, because somebody on a budget can put together a collection they enjoy. The thing is though for me, is I shop around for cards that are not beat up too much, but I have a maximum that I am willing to pay. I think it makes buying cards interesting.

Interested in hearing people's thoughts when it comes to value whether the card is trimmed (but sharp corners, good eye appeal), a good centered card but major creases etc. etc. etc.

[seablaster]

Jason, I think your post touches on something important. I think it all depends on what you collect.

There are collectors on this board who purportedly have been searching for specific cards for decades. When a copy turns up, no matter how badly conditioned, I'm sure they'd be happy to own it.

There are just some sets out there that finding specific players is extremely difficult so condition becomes significantly less of an issue.

On the other hand, it also depends on the number of people actively pursuing the set. Your own example of T206 illustrates that. Whether gem mint or roached, there will be a buyer for any individual T206 card. A wide range of price results however.

The more available a certain issue is, the more scrutiny they undergo, as another example is right around the corner.

[Bestdj777]

It really depends on what you consider book value and what particular card you are talking about. I like lower grade cards and will pay what I need to for a particular card. For rarer cards, that often ends up being a higher percentage of the book value. For lower, it is a much lower percentage

It also depends on what the condition issue is. If I am buying a Venezuelan issue, I don't mind paying a higher percentage for something with back damage. But, if a kid drew on a player's face, I won't touch it unless I really need it and its basically being given away.

I would think, supply and demand, the known pre-existing conditions of the card or cards from a set or being the first card in the set.

[Leon]

The more I need or want the card the less the condition I will accept, especially for super rare ones. If it is a fairly common card then I want one with great eye appeal. I am not worried about technical grades and would just as soon have all of my cards look ex+ but be in 1-2 holders (if graded).

[ullmandds]

I agree w/leon 100% on this one.

This was a tough thing to get used to...for me...having to settle for beaters at times.

I used to disagree with The phrase..."its better to have a hole in my card...than a hole in my collection"...not anymore!