Gum stain question

[jchcollins]

I'm not sure if this is a gum or a wax stain, but I have several other '67 Topps cards that have more or less the exact same thing.

Question is, if this is an EX or EX+ card otherwise, what does this stain do to the grade in your opinion? Does it drop it down to VG-EX, or worse?

The good thing about it is the stain is mostly clear, and when you are just looking at the card straight on, not at an angle in bright light - it's very hard to see.



Card looks like this when not twisting it in light looking for the stain:






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[GasHouseGang]

That's wax stain from the wrapper. Others on the board have said to use a nylon (hose) to rub it off. I've used an old white cotton gym sock (clean preferred!) with good results. I've never used a nylon so I can't comment on it's effectiveness.

[JollyElm]

If you want your specific question answered, the card would (most likely) get a two point drop in grade, or an ST qualifier, were you to send it in. If you're selling it 'as is,' then I would definitely still call it EX or EX+ but with a notation saying the front has a healthy amount of wax/gum residue on it.

I've used more pairs of panty hose than Liza Minnelli, so getting that stuff off is as simple as it gets. Start gently and see how it works, then start forcing it more. I also take advantage of the various thicknesses of the different parts of the hose, to find the right part to clear the surface.

[toppcat]

I've been able to clean wax off with regular white paper towels.

[jchcollins]

Thanks guys. I was guessing it was gum and not wax because light rubbing with nylon did nothing. I don't want to risk damaging it by rubbing harder.

[jchcollins]

WAIT!!!

I'll be damned, it's working...

[jchcollins]

Hahaha thanks guys!




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[Gorditadogg]

So if you put that card under UV light, does it shine where the wax was removed? Just wondering.

Nice Maury by the way John.

[irv]

Originally Posted by Gorditadogg

So if you put that card under UV light, does it shine where the wax was removed? Just wondering.

Nice Maury by the way John.

The couple less than great condition cards I have done, you couldn't tell after the fact, but I'm sure if one weren't to go easy/gentle and take their time, some damage could occur for sure.

[jchcollins]

Originally Posted by Gorditadogg

So if you put that card under UV light, does it shine where the wax was removed? Just wondering.

Nice Maury by the way John.

I have a neon beer sign in my basement. I'm guessing this is not exactly what PSA uses, but it's worked before to fluoresce things like erasures on other cards. Turned the other lights off, and held Maury under it and I don't see anything on the surface that is not uniform.