Question of Grading & Sales Value

[xdrx]

David, thanks for the thoughtful and honest reply - definitely appreciated. I don't disagree on the 54 Snider in terms of price, maybe hoping to get lucky at $55 (and I think I might like the card a little too much). I just keep being surprised by things selling above and below what I expect. I think my frustration is actually less about the money and more about my basic competitive nature -- I should be able to figure this out and make smart business decisions.

I'm also coming to realize that my eyes are shot...at 43 I'm pretty sure I need bifocals! Maybe those who look at cards every day have a 3 or 5x loupe or something similar at hand?

[vintagetoppsguy]

Originally Posted by xdrx

I'm also coming to realize that my eyes are shot...at 43 I'm pretty sure I need bifocals! Maybe those who look at cards every day have a 3 or 5x loupe or something similar at hand?

I just turned 40 back in June and my eyes aren't too far behind yours

Yes, most who grade have a loop. I use an 8X lighted loop. You can pick them up pretty cheap. I bought mine from my local BB card store.

[mintacular]

Looks like a "7 o/c". Off-centering should eliminate off the bat cards that are subbable. In terms of resale, 8s or higher would be needed to make back any grading fees. Also, as a general wear if you can see wear on the corners basically you won't get higher than a 7, also look for print defects in the background of 59s and always check backs carefully too although they don't need to be centered. In short, if it isn't pack-fresh or extremely close to it with nice centering probably not worth grading...