To crack or not to crack, that is the question.
 

I am putting together a mid-grade 1952 low # set (raw) and recently bit the bullet and bought the Andy Pafko #1 card off of eBay for a pretty good price (less than $100). I made a concession and bought it at a lower grade than my other cards primarily due to the cost of higher grade Pafkos. This card is an SGC 10, but I bought it because there are no holes, paper loss, or tears. Basically just rounded corners, creasing on the side, and some chipping on the side. The black back is clean and the card is well-centered. My question is should I crack it out or leave it? I don't have any intention at this point to sell it, but you never know. I really don't deal with graded cards so I am looking for advice.

Set it free Ed!

Hi Ed, as an acid collector of 52 topps, I dont think cracking it out would have it lose value. Also, it would then fit better into your set. I dont advise cracking anything that would lower the value. Best of luck in the search

Erik and Ted,

Thanks. That is what I hoped I would hear.

Ed, sounds like you've made your decision. I agree, crack it out and don't look back! Congrats on the Pafko!

Cards
 

Cards free from imprisonment are not "raw" , they are in their natural state

Robert,

Thanks. I was pretty excited to get the card, even if it is a little "worn". Glad it was enjoyed by it's previous owners over the past 62 years! Andy will be liberated from the holder very soon.

Agree with Ted.....lose value, don't crack.....stay about the same, crack it out to fit in......