While I agree with you about the trust issue nowadays and that Topps states that all signings are verified via a Representative they could offer proof about "fabric" authenticity. They could have a code on the card that matches something on their site that gives you the info about when it was worn and who it was purchased from. I don't think that would be that hard to do since they already have that info in their accounting dept. No one spends money, especially big money without verification of the item so they already have the info. They just choose NOT to share it with use. I would never chop down the apple tree because because a few apples rotted. We as collectors need to diligent with our collecting habits, more diligent than we use to be so we can verify items. What can we do from a collector stand point when we find problems like you described, pretty much nothing. The companies however can. They can allow the collector to exchange their product, regrade it or make a correction in some way. They choose again not to.
In a world where it is possible that a 5 year old is making our clothes and barley paid we count on the retailer to stop purchasing from them and purchase else where, however we don't stop buying clothes.
The world is full of people trying to take advantage of another person for self greed. We cannot let those few ruin something we love and enjoy. I hate finding out something I paid for is fake or even questionable. I worked hard for that money. Is there something I can do about it no, so I do all I can to not let it happen again.
I some cases it pushes use to far and we get totally discussed with the hobby because of people like you mentioned and I totally understand why you feel the way you do and did what you did. I enjoy collecting and hope I don't reach that level as so many time I have come close. Not just because of what you mentioned but due to prices that are charged via Topps. I think their proffit ls just over the top. Yes its a limited market but 3 and 4 hundred dollar packs are not in the best interest of collectors if they end up with something they could have bought on the bay for 20 dollars or less. That is the case many times.
Good luck with your other endeavors.
In a world where it is possible that a 5 year old is making our clothes and barley paid we count on the retailer to stop purchasing from them and purchase else where, however we don't stop buying clothes.
The world is full of people trying to take advantage of another person for self greed. We cannot let those few ruin something we love and enjoy. I hate finding out something I paid for is fake or even questionable. I worked hard for that money. Is there something I can do about it no, so I do all I can to not let it happen again.
I some cases it pushes use to far and we get totally discussed with the hobby because of people like you mentioned and I totally understand why you feel the way you do and did what you did. I enjoy collecting and hope I don't reach that level as so many time I have come close. Not just because of what you mentioned but due to prices that are charged via Topps. I think their proffit ls just over the top. Yes its a limited market but 3 and 4 hundred dollar packs are not in the best interest of collectors if they end up with something they could have bought on the bay for 20 dollars or less. That is the case many times.
Good luck with your other endeavors.
Will always be looking for 2012 or 2013 Panini Cooperstown Signatures for the two sets I'm building-Will trade in your favor--will ship first--Thanks