[billyb]

Drew,
The value is what may warrant an encapsulation. If you are going to sell, then a PSA authentication would not hurt, but it is not need. Most photo collection guys can judge the type just by looking at the photo. I suggest you get a copy of "A portrait of Baseball Photography", by Marshall Fogel, Khyber Oser and Henry Yee.
It will help you to determine your different types of photos, and aid you in future purchases.

In the meantime, here is a description of the different types.

Type 1 - First Generation photo, is developed from the original negative (during the period) or within two years of when the picture was taken.

Type 2- Is a First generation photo, developed from the original negative (during a later period), more than two years when the picture was taken.

Type 3- A second generation photo, developed from either a "duplicate negative" or a "wire transmission" with two years of when the picture was taken.
A "duplicate negative" is produced when someone takes a photo of an existing photograph, which creates a second negative that is a lesser quality of the original.

Type 4- A second generation (of third, or fourth generations) photo developed from a "duplicate negative" or a "wire transmission", more then two years of when the picture was taken.