Is it safe to buy graded? Or should I focus only on raw?

[swarmee]

Yep, his eBay account is still active and Painthistorian has some nice raw ending tonight. Had an early bid on that 1952 Topps #1, but it sold for $227. Would be a shame if it gets Mosered.
Ricky-leo is what he changed his Ebay handle to. Hopefully everyone who sells on eBay cancels his purchases and informs the FBI where his current address is.

[Steve D]

I will definitely continue to buy graded/slabbed cards.

I have always been one who "buys the card, not the holder". Once I see a card that is in the grade range I'm looking for, I examine the card (even on the internet), and determine if it has the "eye appeal" I'm looking for. If it doesn't meet my expectations, I pass on it. It isn't really that difficult, as long as you can zoom the picture.

I remember very well, the days before the TPGs came into existence. 1953 and 1971 Topps that were colored-in with magic markers, trimmed cards, outright counterfeits..........

I believe the TPGs have, while there are valid concerns right now, greatly improved the hobby. I am confident they will continue to do so.

Steve

[dio]

continue to buy graded, these issues will get over in a few months.
PSA/SGC if later you found out it's altered, they have gurantee, they will pay you back, come on. this is part of the reason why you're paying premium.

Buying raw , bigger risk on fake cards. tons of them. and when you buy a nr-mint, when you get it, it might be ex or below only. even able to return you waste your time and effort keep on returning.

Scandals will happen and will continue to happen. I'm sure PSA/SGC , good company will find a way to work things out.