PSA 5 Evers....I don't think so....DO YOU ?

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Posted By: Dave Hornish

I have been buying low grade T cards either in slabs or raw for the grand total of two months now off eBay. I primarily go after Brooklyn players but also collect different backs so I have a somewhat mixed collection of Superbas and other cards, probably averaging PSA 2 or 3, except I bust everything out and put the cards into 15 pocket sheets. I find the comfort level a bit higher when buying slabbed cards and I think the rise of slabbing has a lot to do with precisely that-buying cards off the web is a crapshoot. That's a pretty obvious statement but if you can't hold the card in your hand and examine it, then how do you buy something off the internet? You either trust the seller or the grading company; there is no alternative.

By referencing a combination of completed eBay auctions and vintagecardprices.com (I have nothing to do with that site if it's not obvious, other than being a satisified customer) I've been able to avoid overbidding for the most part. T and E cards certainly are experiencing a price spike right now, but so are 60's Topps and and some other sets, so there is a temptation to bid high on old cardboard from many eras. The thirst for certain cards is presently intense among collectors. Some of it may be set registry mania but I think a lot of it is just good old supply and demand.

Many things we used to go out and experience are now available in digital form. But there is still something tactile and satisfying about holding a card (or something else) as opposed to having a scan or printout of it. A lot of collectibles are going up right now beacuse of this I think. If you want to see prices that are really nuts, try vintage guitars-the ultimate tactile collectible. Again, it is supply and demand and true vintage items are pursued with vigor in that realm as well. I seem to be losing my point (thanks to some good Cotes de Rhone and long day) but I think it had something to do with lower-grade slabs having their place in the hobby so long as you know what you want to pay or bid for something.

Ted, personally I am in awe of the way you are collecting T206. I'll probably end up going after the complete set (minus the big 6 to 8) as well since all signs seem to be pointing to it and I'm sure I will overspend on some cards. I will say this though; I have never regretted spending a bit too much for a card I want but always have regretted not bidding more for one that got away, slabbed or not. You seem a little disappointed in your Evers transaction but you do have possesion of a desirable card. It may not feel like it, but congratulations are in order!