Quote:
Originally Posted by barrysloate
So the N690 Philadelphia may be changing hands. Good show!
Now I have to ask you something about the grade. My understanding of the grade EX+ is that a card should have wear equal to an excellent card, but because of some other positive factor, would be bumped up a half grade. Wouldn't the gem quality of that photo be enough to bump it to the EX+ 70 level? How could it not receive that grade? How much better of an excellent card could possibly exist?
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Hi Barry
Thanks for the kind words about this extraordinary card. As you know I have loved that card but things have come up that I need to do, and with my focus on 20th century, it makes the most sense to let it go. As for the grade, we have discussed it many times. The graders just don't count photo quality on our gems. You and a few other "very expert" 19th century collectors have told me they have never seen a better photo on a 19th century card. I am not sure how one could be any better, but I am biased. Maybe this one deserves a 70 but, if I were the one bidding, I wouldn't be as concerned about the number, as I would be about the photo quality. I hope it goes to someone who understands exactly how nice it is. It is one of the true gems in our hobby. regards