Posted By:
Plastic DogLee,
Not to sound harsh, but I really think that everyone advocating an "AUTHENTIC" grade - while their arguments are well-intentioned - are overlooking the obvious advantages that such a system would provide the unscrupulous seller. Here is what I wrote in the other subject thread to Leon:
"Leon, you're a good guy so I think that the obvious problem with your whole position just didn't creep into your brain. And you clearly aren't as jaded as some of us other collectors, for if you were, you would realize the obvious:
YOUR "AUTHENTIC" MATTY WOULD BE ADVERTISED AS NM/MT ON EBAY, AND A COLLECTOR WOULD HAVE A HARD TIME PICKING UP THE FLAW IF IT'S ENTOMBED IN BULLET-PROOF PLASTIC!!!"
That's the problem Lee. Authentic-graded cards make it difficult for a buyer in any transaction to closely examine the card; it takes away all of your senses except sight. (Remember John Wojak talking about using touch, sight and even smell?) The only reason that most collectors accept the current system is that the "scrutiny" of the card was done by a 3rd party (possibly neutral) grader. With "AUTHENTIC" grades, such scrutiny is no longer possible. And that could mean a difference of overpaying by thousands of dollars for a card.