Card grading has been a boon for me. I wouldn't be able to collect, otherwise, because of the lack of good, quality vintage dealers in my area. And I simply do not trust buying raw cards online...too much of an issue over alterations.
At least with card grading there is a standard in play, and I know with the better confidence that what I'm getting is legit.
But with that said, I always buy the card, never the grade. If offered for the same price, I'd readily buy a centered PSA 6 over an off center PSA 8. And while I try to buy PSA 6-7s, I have no problems buyings 5s or even 4s if the card has terrific eye appeal for me.
Card grading is a tool to aid the hobbyist and the collect and the investor, but it is not the only one, and certainly not one which all should rely upon. Because a blind faith is a great why to wind up with a phony '52 Mantle in a cracked holder....
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