Theories About the Existence of High Grade Vintage

[ls7plus]

Originally Posted by Peter_Spaeth

Plenty because most people, I think, don't believe it. How great (or not) would it be if some day one of our beloved superstar card doctors actually confessed the extent of what they (and others) have done in terms of crimes against the hobby.

I agree with you, Pete. Would create quite a stir, wouldn't it? Although I think those that don't believe it are largely those shelling out huge sums for 8's, 9's and 10's from the '50's on back to the nineteen teens, at least. What was Mastro's figure? 90% of vintage cards in very high grades have been altered? Sure, there are some high grade examples that are legitimate due to origins discussed at length earlier in this thread, but just as certainly there are large numbers that have had "a little help," as I believe you are fond of saying, to get those grades. Personally, as far as pre-war is concerned, I'll stick with what is very scarce to extremely rare, with the best eye appeal I can find or live with. Cards such as my 1923 Lections Ruth (SGC poor), 1907 Dietsche Fielding Pose Cobb (PSA 5) and '39 V351 Ted Williams rookie (SGC Ex) are just some examples of what I seek out.

Best wishes in your own endeavors,

Larry