Posted By:
Richard MassonI'd call this the "Topps syndrome" in SCD price guides. Vintage sets just do not follow the pattern of modern card sets where there are commons, high numbers and stars. There has to be more thought given to assigning values based on scarcity (a Jennings Tango Eggs, anyone?) and true demand. If a new card is catalogued, it should be footnoted as possibly unique and assigned a higher value. At least periodically someone needs to review not only the pricing but the relative pricing within a set for accuracy.
As a practical matter, the SCD guide on vintage sets is simply a checklist. Not until someone actually undertakes to publish a vintage card only guide will the details of each set be publicly reflected. There should be no difference in value between an uncatalogued pose and a catalogued (possibly unique) pose. Lipset's work comes closest, but much more information is now available and could be published. See what has happened to the scarce poses and backs in T206. Greater understanding has led to a greater appreciation of scarcity and relative value. T205, T207, E cards,... it is happening in all the major collectible issues. It will be true of vintage issues also.