The Dreaded W.O.B.

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Posted By: Bruce Babcock

Typically "writing on back" indicates a card which is considered undesirable by most, perhaps to be use as a "filler" until something better comes along. And we all know what grading companies think about such things. Similarly, "postally used" is considered a negative by most.

In my view, writing on the back can sometimes actually be a plus. For example, an N172 with legendary collector Buck Barker's handwriting on the otherwise blank back may command a premium price.

Here is another example. This Rose postcard was clearly owned by a true baseball fan, who wrote a note which actually refers to the player depicted, and then mailed it to another fan.





To me, this makes the card more interesting and valuable, although not as expensive, as the same card with a pristine back. Does anyone else have any favorite cards, postcards or otherwise, with W.O.B?