Observations from the Card Show Front Lines - UPDATED!!!

[raulus]

Looks like a couple of other factors are cited on other threads for why high grade 62T Mays sells for a premium:

1) The dark background in the photo results in a lot of snow, so higher grade cards are more difficult to find.

2) There is often a smudge found by Willie's name or on the thick black line on the bottom edge. These common print defects also mean that it's harder to find a really nice copy.

I guess add those to the woody borders, and you've got your answer. There's just not that many 8s and 9s out there. And these days, everyone who wants but can't afford 8s and 9s are dropping down and bidding up the prices for 6s and 7s.