Question about buying graded

[Bambino]

I've read this "buy the card not the holder" mantra several times on this board, and it makes complete sense. I'm wondering though, do you guys end up buying nice-looking non-graded cards and then have them graded yourselves or will you mostly buy graded cards to lessen the chances of getting something that isn't authentic?

I just recently got back into collecting (focusing on HOF RC's) and I'm almost ashamed to admit that none of the purchases I've made (besides a Steve Carlton PSA 4) have been graded. I keep them all in 4-screw holders though

[4815162342]

Originally Posted by Bambino

...I'm almost ashamed to admit that none of the purchases I've made (besides a Steve Carlton PSA 4) have been graded...

Don't ever be ashamed of how you choose to collect. It's your money, your time, and your passion. I collect PSA cards, even though the majority of this board collects SGC. Then there are some on this board who believe that TPGs are the ruination of the hobby. Collect however you like and you'll be happy.

[vintagetoppsguy]

Here is my favorite "low techincal grade, but nice eye appeal" card. It has a very small speck of paper loss on the right border. I got it from a fellow board member. Agree with the others, buy the card and not the holder.

[Bambino]

Originally Posted by 4815162342

Don't ever be ashamed of how you choose to collect. It's your money, your time, and your passion. I collect PSA cards, even though the majority of this board collects SGC. Then there are some on this board who believe that TPGs are the ruination of the hobby. Collect however you like and you'll be happy.

That is very good advice Daryl...thank you.

[HOF Yankees]

for graded I just buy what vintage I can afford if I need to save for some then I will but other wise, only what i can afford

[Matthew H]

If the main reason you are buying graded cards is because you're new and don't want to get burned, I'd suggest cracking a couple out and studying the paper stock, printing, feel and smell. If you do like the holder too much to crack it out, try to find a local hobby shop and study their cards.

If you limit your self to just graded you'll really be missing out on great deals. There are mini "finds" always showing up on eBay, sometimes for sale by non collectors, in which case the cards are usually not graded. I personally like buying stuff that's fresh to the hobby.

After some time you'll be able to spot a fake in a scan, and you'll know not to buy cards with pictures so crappy that you can't see enough to make a judgment call.