Posted By:
Jim VBMark,
Consignment or not, there is certainly some question about the appearance of impropriety when you both, grade and then profit from the sale of the same cards.
If Beckett is intent on doing both, they should outline a plan to all potential customers, on how they intend to keep the two side separate. What sort of "Chinese wall" has been set up to prevent cross-contamination of the two? Know going in that this has not always worked in other industries. It has had problems at financial firms that deal with analysts who make recommendations while brokers are trying to make sales. Most law firms routinely screen all new clients to make sure there is no potential conflict with existing clients. It's not as easy as it first seems, and you guys haven't broached it at all, at least publicly.
(Note- I have bid on several auctions from beckettmedia. Won some. Lost some. Everytime I have concerns.)