Red vs Blue PSA/DNA Labels & Autographed Cards

MikeyLikesIt

What's the difference? The PSA/DNA autographed cards of mine have red labels. I previously thought the blue labels were used for items like checks, 3x5 index cards, etc. but lately I've been seeing a bunch of blue labels on eBay for regular issue Topps, Fleer, etc autographed cards. So what is the difference? Is there a different process involved in authenticating blue vs red labels? Can you add a blue labeled slab to an autograph registry just like you can a red one?

Mike

Ullr

The red flips go through two steps: autograph authentication, then card analysis. A trimmed, recolored or repaired card should not make it into a red slab. The blue flips only go to PSA/DNA where the autograph is all that is examined. Altered cards could easily get into a blue slab.
I don't think a blue flip can get into a registry set other than the new "Any Medium" Baseball Autograph set.

MikeyLikesIt

Thanks. That clears it up a little. I guess I don't really understand what the point is of having a likely unaltered card (ie 88 Fleer) authenticated with a blue label.

By the way Ullr, your baseball HOF autograph set is quite an accomplishment. What makes it even better is that you have scans. I spent a little bit looking through your set a few days ago and it's a real beauty.

Mike

alifaxwa2

<< <i>Thanks. That clears it up a little. I guess I don't really understand what the point is of having a likely unaltered card (ie 88 Fleer) authenticated with a blue label.
>>



I do this with mid-level autos on cards in less than optimal condition, particularly for more recent players. This way the low grade doesn't affect the value and appeal.

Alfiewt

Red Labels = Card is graded and/or authenticated, Autograph just authenticated

Blue Labels = Autograph is graded and authenticated. Card is not graded or authenticated.

RayBShotz

Mikey - Many folks are most concerned about the quality of the signature itself. Most of the autogrpahed baseball card media that exists today is of a more modern vintage; mostly 1960's or newer (mostly newer). There is rarely a concern that those cards have been altered as they themselves maintain limited inherent value.

The discriminating autograph collector is looking for a good, nice clean signature. The Blue Flip used to encapsulate autographed cards assures this. If you want the best, cleanest possible signature of a Mickey Mantle, Ted Williams, Bob Feller etc then opt for a card in a slab with the Blue flip. A PSA 9 or 10 Blue Flip assures that the signature will be gorgeous and real. The Red Flip doesn't speak to the signatures condition only that it is real.

Hope that helps.
RayB

MikeyLikesIt

Many thanks for the explanations. That helps clear things up.

Mike