1952 Topps Mantle - Long Term Plan, Need Advice

[Bestdj777]

The views on authentic cards vary. Some people avoid them like the plague. In my opinion, there are three types of authentic cards: 1) graded ones that have been destroyed beyond recognition that I have no interest in; 2) raw cards that have been altered without the alterations being disclosed, that I also have no interest in; and 3) graded cards that have been deceptively altered that allow me to buy what looks like a 6K+ card for a substantial discount. Again, views vary.

If it wasn't for altered cards and the "ragged" cards out there, I would not be able to afford most of what I have in my collection now. I choose to view the defects as positives. I get authentics with great eye appeal at prices I can afford or beaters that were loved by generations of kids in the same way I will continue to love the cards. To each his own. Just thought I would mention the possibility in case you had not thought about it--don't want to sound preachy as I strongly believe there is no wrong way to collect.

[CamaroDMD]

Originally Posted by Bestdj777

The views on authentic cards vary. Some people avoid them like the plague. In my opinion, there are three types of authentic cards: 1) graded ones that have been destroyed beyond recognition that I have no interest in; 2) raw cards that have been altered without the alterations being disclosed, that I also have no interest in; and 3) graded cards that have been deceptively altered that allow me to buy what looks like a 6K+ card for a substantial discount. Again, views vary.

If it wasn't for altered cards and the "ragged" cards out there, I would not be able to afford most of what I have in my collection now. I choose to view the defects as positives. I get authentics with great eye appeal at prices I can afford or beaters that were loved by generations of kids in the same way I will continue to love the cards. To each his own. Just thought I would mention the possibility in case you had not thought about it--don't want to sound preachy as I strongly believe there is no wrong way to collect.

I think it's something to consider...but I'll still probably try and find a decent "problem free" PSA 1. I think I would prefer to have an uglier but unaltered version of the card if possible. But, you have given me something to think about and if the right authentic card comes along I might jump on it.

I also think there is a big difference between "not a rag" and a "great PSA 1." I don't believe I am looking for cards that are in the "great" category...I just want something that doesn't look completely destroyed. I think I can find such a card.

[MattyC]

Originally Posted by CamaroDMD

I also think there is a big difference between "not a rag" and a "great PSA 1." I don't believe I am looking for cards that are in the "great" category...I just want something that doesn't look completely destroyed. I think I can find such a card.

Getting a firm, accurate handle on price expectations can help one both avoid potential future disappointment at auction, and arm one with the knowledge needed to prevail at auction. Perusing the scans of PSA 1s on both Vintage Card Prices and eBay's completed sales will give you a great gauge of how nice your preferred examples really are for the PSA 1 bandwidth.

With most 1s indeed being very ragged, you may be surprised to see you are actually seeking a card that is in the upper tier of the 1 grade, and thus it's a 7k+ card and not a 5k card.

A salient point regarding the #311 and its market in the lower grades is this: the way the market is trending and pricing this iconic card the last year or so, I've been seeing that any PSA 1 which is not ragged is being sold for "high-end" PSA 1 money. So there's been an extreme polarization of price in the lower grades, based on eye appeal-- even if the card itself is somewhere in the middle. One should keep this in mind if they spot one they want and are determined to take the card home.

[Republicaninmass]

Don't overpay for one you don't like, they come up very often. Most are overpriced, just keep your eyes open and funds available.

[pawpawdiv9]

I waited paitently for mine. It was in a AH and suprised me that i won it..
It was the PSA 2(MK)...seen in my avatar.
The MK designated some penicl writing, but upon examination most of what was there faded away and barely visible...other than a crease, I love my 'B' variation i got a while back.
I think i am gonna wait a while for a 'A' to come up. I do agree they are better looking than B. I just cant afford it with the prices skyrocketed.

[CamaroDMD]

Originally Posted by pawpawdiv9

I waited paitently for mine. It was in a AH and suprised me that i won it..
It was the PSA 2(MK)...seen in my avatar.
The MK designated some penicl writing, but upon examination most of what was there faded away and barely visible...other than a crease, I love my 'B' variation i got a while back.
I think i am gonna wait a while for a 'A' to come up. I do agree they are better looking than B. I just cant afford it with the prices skyrocketed.

Well, I just hope I can find one before the prices get too high. I was able to convince my wife that next year once my business is finally producing enough revenue to keep us comfortable (which should be the end of this year)...I can keep my part time job (Friday) job and use that money for my hobbies rather than quitting and working 4 days a week. I told her that I wanted to use the money to finish my car restoration project...but I'm thinking I might make a 1952 Mantle the priority and then finish the car. I haven't mentioned the Mantle idea to her yet...but she said OK to the car so that's a start. My Friday job produces enough income where I should have enough to pick up a PSA 1 with 2 months of saving.

[pawpawdiv9]

Here is a link, i give to most people to educate themselves on the mantle and variations and what to look for compared to fakes.
So please READ: http://home.comcast.net/~52mantle/