Why Are Cards Deemed Trimmed??

[mdschulze]

I'm new to collecting 206's so this may be a stupid question... but it appears that a lot of cards I see on Ebay and other sites are deemed "trimmed". Was this due to printing errors at the factory or was this a common practice amongst card holders? I don't know why anyone would deliberately trim a card unless there is a good reason that I'm just too stupid to pick up on! I can see someone trying to "center" a card by trimming an edge or two, but the cards that I see trimmed are typically way off center. Please explain so that I can quit pulling my hair out!! Thanks guys, -Mike

[Matt]

Originally Posted by mdschulze

I don't know why anyone would deliberately trim a card unless there is a good reason that I'm just too stupid to pick up on!

Cards that are in NM condition sell for more then cards in VG-EX.

[mdschulze]

In other words, people are trying to straighten out rounded corners. Makes sense, but I didn't think the reputable graders would grade trimmed cards. Personally, I would rather have a graded VG card than an "appears to be" EX card... just my opinion. Thanks for the post Matt!

[Matt]

Originally Posted by mdschulze

I didn't think the reputable graders would grade trimmed cards.

1) Not all cards are sold graded.
2) Not all TPGs catch every trimmed card.

Welcome to the forum!

[mdschulze]

Gotcha! Thanks for the insight... I can retire tonight with a head full of hair.

[ethicsprof]

welcome aboard!!!
always glad to have a cautious and inquisitive collector on board.

best,
barry

[FrankWakefield]

Welcome, Mike.

A good way to learn is to ask. And obviously, you have it now, some rascals trim on the edges of cards so that the card will look to be in better condition to an unknowing buyer.

Better to learn that here asking than the hard way.

FW