Grading Companies
I recall back in the '90s when grading companies arrived on the collecting scene. At the time, there three that I recall: PSA, a marginal company called CSA and the infamous Alan Hager's ASA. Initially, they were greeted by most as a temporary gimmick, soon to pass from the scene. Others were afraid for the hobby. I remember Lew Lipset telling me that TPG was going to be the end of the hobby as many knew it.
Now look at the situation we find ourselves. Graders seem to run the hobby; endless waits for cards, monetization of the hobby and fraudsters everywhere.
Collecting seemed much easier and more fun back when.
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