Soaking 53 Bowman

[MBMiller25]

Isn't "soaking" cards considered somewhat taboo in the hobby? I've been under the impression that this practice is along the same lines as building up of corners, trimming, etc. Am I mistaken?

[Volod]

Originally Posted by MBMiller25

Isn't "soaking" cards considered somewhat taboo in the hobby? I've been under the impression that this practice is along the same lines as building up of corners, trimming, etc. Am I mistaken?

From my point of view, it all depends entirely on what you intend to do with the card. If you are strictly a collector and want to improve the appearance of a card for your own personal satisfaction, it's no one's concern but your own. If, on the other hand, you are attempting to deceive someone, such as a potential buyer or grader, then you are entering a very different area of ethical debate.

[SMPEP]

I can understand your comment on soaking it, leaving it raw and then trying to decieve someone into thinking it is in better condition than it is.

But in the case of getting it graded ... isn't the burden on the card grading company to look at the card and assign the correct grade? Who cares whether it was soaked or not. Their job is to look at the card at hand and give an expert opinion.