Erasing a light pencil mark, altering in a negative manner?

[pcoz]

Originally Posted by Matthew H

Well Pete, your explanation makes your situation more understandable. But, not really for SGC. I live an hour away from PSA, so if I pay more for a walk through they will grade my cards differently?

So this makes total sense now, we have to pay for this "special service"... Which is fine, although it's too bad our hobby values cards (for the most part) based on this grading system.

Matt, I probably didn't explain SGC's policy of a walk through, which is having a card graded with same day service at their location. Since I was visiting my pop in N Jersey, I brought the card to them to get it regraded on the spot. I'm sure I could've sent it in with my explanation, and am confident they'd have handled/graded it the same way.

[4815162342]

Okay, at the time of this post, the board opinion on this matter is an overwhelming 81-10 that pencil erasure isn't a negative alteration. I have one question though: Would it make a difference if this were a high-grade card?

If this card was originally graded SGC 80 / PSA 8 MK, then upon removal of the pencil erasure became SGC 98-100 / PSA 10, would you still think it's okay?

[pcoz]

Originally Posted by 4815162342

Okay, at the time of this post, the board opinion on this matter is an overwhelming 81-10 that pencil erasure isn't a negative alteration. I have one question though: Would it make a difference if this were a high-grade card?

If this card was originally graded SGC 80 / PSA 8 MK, then upon removal of the pencil erasure became SGC 98-100 / PSA 10, would you still think it's okay?

Great question, but I'd say that it shouldn't make a difference. I'm happier having the 40 vs. 20 in my situation, and would pay more for it if it wasn't mine and up for sale.

[Tedw9]

I guess I would fall somewhere in the middle. If the pencil mark being removed affected the card so you could notice something was removed, then yes it's altered. But if you are so good that even with loupe you couldn't tell, then no.

[Tao_Moko]

In most cases a pencil will still have left some remaining mark on the card due to pressure. I would still prefer an erased mark alteration over some of the soaked cards I've received. It's about disclosure so the buyer can make an informed decision on his purchase.

[Texxxx]

OMG, Moving the card at all is altering it!!!

Leon, I think you started this just to watch the fight. LOL

[npa589]

Just to play the part of stirring a cordial pot, this is kind of along the lines of Bruce's post, but, by definition, touching a card alters the card, as is also placing it in a card sleeve, toploader, or "Ultra" pocket sheet. It's affecting the fibers of the card in every way that lead or graphite do, albeit the latter affect it in a more visible and substantial way. How about the fibers from the cardstock that have slightly worn off over the years?

In a way, everyone is correct. I think the wrench in the situation, and the unstated factor in this is TPG. We're analyzing this according to what the grade would be, and, in turn, what the value would be. Is the question actually, how far can one go to "change, or alter the card" before it's considered "cheating" a future buyer?

Just some thoughts, even though I'm not really takign a stance. Ha!

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