[mikemb]

John -

Great observations.

My collection and thoughts are similar to yours. Basically, my cards are the ones I got as a kid and are mid grade. I am about 13 years older than you so I got back into collecting before ebay and grading cards started.

Don't like graded cards but as you said, they serve a purpose. If I spent any large amount (for me over $100) on a card, I would want that card graded. Not as concerned about the grade as want to make sure has not been altered.

Spot on about PSA collectors having the most to loose. Only have 2 PSA cards in my collection and the sum of their 2 grades is less than 7 so I should be fine. Never liked PSA grading on mid grade cards, I always thought BVG and SGC were more accurate and consistent, but I'm sure there is debate on that.

I love my mid grade sets. Finished my 1963 Topps set and now on to 1962 Topps. Maybe I'll be able to help you with some of my duplicates.