OT: PSA Sample grade

[swarmee]

I heard the SAMPLE slabs were passed out at conventions in the early days to show dealers what the product was. I have a Tiger Woods in a SAMPLE slab, so they must have done it for quite a few years after founding.
2001 card

2001 Upper Deck - Tiger's Tales #TT22 - Tiger Woods [PSA Authentic]
Courtesy of COMC.com

[bnorth]

Originally Posted by swarmee

I heard the SAMPLE slabs were passed out at conventions in the early days to show dealers what the product was. I have a Tiger Woods in a SAMPLE slab, so they must have done it for quite a few years after founding.
2001 card

2001 Upper Deck - Tiger's Tales #TT22 - Tiger Woods [PSA Authentic]
Courtesy of COMC.com

Thanks, I had never seen one without the serial number before. I have seen several with the same exact serial number mine has. I have also seen several that have the same serial number but different than the one I have.

Edit: I expanded my search on eBay and found a couple with the event they were given away at printed on the label.

[jchcollins]

Guessing it was a salesman's sample of sorts to introduce PSA graded cards to the hobby. The flips all look old. I didn't know they existed though - so cool!

[bswhiten]

Like others said, I believe they were just used to introduce PSA slabs. Your example has a serial number...different from the one I have.

[bnorth]

Here is one with the event listed on the flip.

[abctoo]

I got two of the same sample at the Fan Fest for Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans in February 2002. Here's a picture of the front and back:



If anyone wants one, it's $5 plus $4.20 first class package with tracking, or both for $7.50 plus the same shipping (they'll combine into one package at no increase in shipping). Send me a private message for details. SOLD

Mike

[bnorth]

Originally Posted by abctoo

I got two of the same sample at the Fan Fest for Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans in February 2002. Here's a picture of the front and back:



If anyone wants one, it's $5 plus $4.20 first class package with tracking, or both for $7.50 plus the same shipping (they'll combine into one package at no increase in shipping). Send me a private message for details.

Mike

Those are cool, PM sent for both.