100th issue!

This issue of the Report Card is not only the first for 2009 but it is also our 100th issue!

Through the Report Card, BGS Grading has brought you specials, card information, articles, breaking counterfeit alerts and much more directly to your inbox.

Since that first issue, BGS has grown and expanded by leaps and bounds.

We have added new services like extra thick card grading and introduced the largest holder in the industry capable of grading items up to an amazing 8.5” x10” and ¼” thick! In November 2007 we joined forces with one of the most recognized names is autograph authentication. Now your signed items can be authenticated by JSA and encapsulated by BGS.

Just like years past, BGS will be introducing new services in 2009 to provide our customers and our hobby with new opportunities and options.

While we all look forward to a better 2009, we have to realize it isn’t all doom and gloom. Many collectors have streamlined their collecting, focusing in on one area and not “buying it all.” I know in my personal collecting I have narrowed my focus down to about 3 areas and I have stopped my “random” card buying. I have to admit, life seems a little easier! Collecting focus also gave me a reason to clean out some stuff which in turn frees up storage space and frees up funds.

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Just A Little Off The Top? - Identifying A Trimmed Card

How many times a have you sent a card in to be graded only to have it returned as “evidence of trimming” or ever wondered if that certain card with an unbelievable price is actually to good to be true? Many hobbyist have, at one time or another, run into this situation or knows of somebody who has. As the values of cards become increasingly higher there is always a chance that fowl play and unscrupulous characters will have their hands in the mix. This can either be intentional or simply done to appease to the previous owner. Nonetheless a trimmed card has a lower resale value and is generally not held in high regard. With a little education and some basic knowledge, even the beginning collector can recognize a trimmed card quickly and with a large degree of accuracy.

The first test is to see if a card measures-up properly. To find this out you will first need to know the textbook measurement of the particular card you are examining. Most modern era cards vary little to none from the exact manufactures specifications. You can although, have a card that is not trimmed but was just naturally cut a little short. In most cases, this card will not be graded based on the fact it does not meet the correct measurement.

Vintage cards with an emphasis on tobacco era cards can be a little more difficult to ascertain. Since the cutting of cards in the early years of production was not an exact science, many tobacco era cards were cut with little regard to accuracy or consistency; this can be often seen in the very popular T206 series. These were cut with various widths and lengths. A card may be shy of the proper size but still be within the limits of authentication and grading standards. A card could also have been cut larger and be “doctored” to precise measurements. This is where knowing how to identify a trimmed card may come to use.

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The “best of” ask BGS
This issue we will feature a few questions from past issues of the Report Card…

Q: I submitted a grading order a few weeks ago and I would like to check on its status. How can I do that on Beckett.com?

A: One of the great features of Beckett Grading is the ability to check the progress of your order online easily! Simply go to www.beckett.com and go to our "Grading" page. read more


Q: I submitted a Michael Jordan Rookie (1986-87 Fleer) to BGS and the card came back with a label that just says "Questionable Authenticity." What does that mean?

A: This is a good question. Cards that are marked as "Questionable Authenticity" are cards that we feel are not authentic cards. The card is one that we feel has been reproduced illegally. We can not grade any cards that we feel are not authentic. read more


Q: I have a signed Babe Ruth photo that my father gave me years ago. I see that Beckett works with James Spence Authentication now. How do I submit this item to be authenticated and placed into a Beckett case.

A: The submission of items that need to be authenticated is as easy as submitting cards to Beckett Grading. Simply go to www.beckett.com/jsa. At this site, you will find information about this service and find a submission form. You will need to fill out this submission form and send the items to the address listed on the form. read more