As many have said, I really should have done my own research. It probably wouldn't have taken too much. As I said before, I saw the SGC slab and assumed it was good. Now for my lesson in humility.
I seem to do fine with cards. I've spent a few years around here and the old board and feel like I've got a pretty good eye for reprints and scam artists. It's when I get off the beaten path and buy a photo, postcard, ticket, etc. that I seem to get burned. I mean seriously....who reprints tickets!
Oh well....lesson learned. Hopefully the last one.