I can see it being confusing for two reasons. Hey, PSA gets 3800. We get 3700. I get the point that its like hey it impressive we almost got as much. But at first glance why do you highlight that the card in your holder sold for less. I mean it is impressive but it kind of doesn't look right in terms of an ad that highlights less money in your holder. Maybe a different angle hits people in a better way. Happy customers. Turnaround time. Low price to submit. Great that you got to that point of being close on the one card but maybe it leaves the impression of hey skip MBA and the stickers and just go PSA, $100 more. If you are highlighting the one where its 98% or so of the PSA price, probably a lot of others much lower.
Then the thing discussed here in this thread. Its your card and you reviewed it and put a better than the grade sticker on your own card. Which says something odd about the original grade given. If they want to play the all these variations of an 8 game maybe they just need an 8.1 8.2 8.3 grade. The sticker on the PSA Beckett CGC card works more cause its like our second opinion suggests they maybe undergraded. Seeing the MBA sticker on an MBA graded card looks like they undergraded even though I'm sure there is a detailed explanation of how it works. Just feels like a weird look I think.
Also maybe has the feel of Mr. Mint saying hey the card I sold was the best. Thanks for the unbiased opinion.
From Brent's former Defense Attorney Jeffrey Lichtman:
I’m less concerned with Mile High’s site issues than I am with the auction house becoming a dumping ground for trimmed MBA garbage. It’s clear that you submit to MBA because you can’t get your altered card past PSA or SGC
If Baker is slabbing trimmed and color altered cards, as alleged (if not already proven to anyone with common sense) by many including those who were in his cohort Brent's inner circle, then there logically is less than 0% chance Baker is concerned with trimming and color alteration as part of his process for placing stickers on slabs.
@mintonlypls as the seemingly largest proponent of Mr. Baker on this forum what are your thoughts from not only your personal fiscal perspective but also from an ethical standpoint. In addition your thoughts on why he has chosen to align himself with Mr. Huigens of all people
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Around 2010, I unbeknownst bought a 1964 Pete Rose GAI-9 (trimmed, later discovered and a learning experience) from Mile High…and ever since I will not bid on lots in Mile High Auction.
As far as MBA…I will submit PSA or SGC cards to evaluate for exceptional eye appeal (silver diamond) or undergraded in his opinion (gold diamond). I assume his MBA slabs are from raw cards…so am hesitant to purchase there. I do like his service of cards already in either PSA or SGC holders.
@1982FBWaxMemories, I saw those posts over on 54. I think it is beyond a shadow that Baker and MBA are bad actors. he is either incompetent or corrupt when it comes to actually grading cards. i am not sure which is worse honestly.
if he cannot (or will not) accurately grade cards, how can anyone expect his stickers to be an accurate representation of what resides in another companies slab?
@mintonlypls said:
Don’t know…I would assume trimming and altering is part of his evaluation on PSA or SGC holdered cards.
Curious as to why you would assume (when you ASSume ) that when its not (allegedly) a consideration in cards he slabs with his own company. In addition it may have been a card that his business associate Brent had worked or was involved with in the past.
From a business standpoint it would seem way to dangerous, a lose-lose situation, for him to do so for the factor mentioned as well as create irate customers who might never use his sticker service again. Plus then word getting around might cause other potential customers to shy away.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Bottom line he's not checking PSA & SGC slabs for trimming and color alterations for his sticker service. There simply no proof he does so and he would be a foolish to do so from every logical $tandpoint.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
You could go to any so-called expert. Ask them to give you an evaluation. Pay a price. Get a sticker. Nothing nefarious about it. Just some company doing business. Acceptable.
You don't need to dwell on anything else they do aside from the obligation they have to you. In any business, we will find that there are methods which may not necessarily be agreeable. We can expose them and let those who have a vested interest decide for themselves what to do.
Out of respect for one individual who simply wants to make good use of the methods, it doesn't seem necessary to pressure that same individual to defend his position on the matter. He's made up his mind what is safe for him. We should all respect that.
@ElMagoStrikeZone said:
You could go to any so-called expert. Ask them to give you an evaluation. Pay a price. Get a sticker. Nothing nefarious about it. Just some company doing business. Acceptable.
You don't need to dwell on anything else they do aside from the obligation they have to you. In any business, we will find that there are methods which may not necessarily be agreeable. We can expose them and let those who have a vested interest decide for themselves what to do.
Out of respect for one individual who simply wants to make good use of the methods, it doesn't seem necessary to pressure that same individual to defend his position on the matter. He's made up his mind what is safe for him. We should all respect that.
As long as he's not hawking 1990 Fleer Basketball Wax
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Hmmm...met Mr. Baker way way back when he worked at PSA...He seemed very very knowledgeable at the time and was regarded as a top expert...High grade LEGIT LEGIT Old Old vintage cards (like Pre 1950) are prolly TOUGH TOUGH to verify from maybe a trimmed card as to my knowledge the tolerances for cardboard during that era were larger than 1960's on cards...For these LEGIT high grade REAL UNTRIMMED specimens it would seem a crap shoot wouldn't you say? Maybe some of you who think they can do a better job would prosper in the grading of pre 1950's cards...Just my perception of this situation.
Just a question concerning all this and not about a specific individual (I don't know any of these folks):
Doesn't any grading service have it written in their small print that all these services are completely subjective and that they don't make any specific and total determinations on any grades?
Wouldn't they all have to do that since no grading service could ever be 100% accurate? Seems like a necessary loophole that protects them while potentially ripping off a customer while also guaranteeing no one can be the final arbiter of anything.
@mintonlypls said:
Don’t know…I would assume trimming and altering is part of his evaluation on PSA or SGC holdered cards.
Curious as to why you would assume (when you ASSume ) that when its not (allegedly) a consideration in cards he slabs with his own company. In addition it may have been a card that his business associate Brent had worked or was involved with in the past.
From a business standpoint it would seem way to dangerous, a lose-lose situation, for him to do so for the factor mentioned as well as create irate customers who might never use his sticker service again. Plus then word getting around might cause other potential customers to shy away.
i have to admit based on what i have read on this thread, that their could be some bad stuff going on. especially if they buy and put stickers on their purchases. conflict of interest. i do kind of like the concept, but these actors don't appear to have the best interest of the hobby.
@HOMETOWNSPORTS said:
s...For these LEGIT high grade REAL UNTRIMMED specimens it would seem a crap shoot wouldn't you say?
No.
Show me a Mint Trimmed 1941 Playball Joe Dimaggio that falls within the known tolerance variance and I'll Show you a Mint LEGIT REAL UNTRIMMED 1941 Playball Joe Dimaggio that falls within the tolerances as well... CAPISH?
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
There you go, experts like you are needed to prevent mistakes. Seems like you have a viable way to compete with PSA by being more accurate and trusted. I think I would send some cards to you for grading. Rock On!!
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
There you go, experts like you are needed to prevent mistakes. Seems like you have a viable way to compete with PSA by being more accurate and trusted. I think I would send some cards to you for grading. Rock On!!
So you like trimmed and color retouched cards.
Your usual snark aside the tech exists, capish. The only question is does PSA want to spend the money? Seems like they and you do not care likely all for fi$cal reasons. Rock on.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
I think they are nervous of implementing true AI because of how many altered cards are currently in slabs. can you imagine the guarrantee payouts due to ai reviews?
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
I think they are nervous of implementing true AI because of how many altered cards are currently in slabs. can you imagine the guarrantee payouts due to ai reviews?
And by Purchasing SGC and Beckett they have ensured most of real competition cannot either.
MBA certainly won't as slabbing trimmed cards is seemingly part of their business model fabric. Brent plus his contacts represent the pinnacle of trimming and color touching arena. Mile High has become a lucrative clearing house for them.
CGC turns a blind eye on trimming for their largest client submitters of Comic Books...Cards no exception.
As for TAG who on earth is sending them 1950s and earlier stuff.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
There you go, experts like you are needed to prevent mistakes. Seems like you have a viable way to compete with PSA by being more accurate and trusted. I think I would send some cards to you for grading. Rock On!!
So you like trimmed and color retouched cards.
Your usual snark aside the tech exists, capish. The only question is does PSA want to spend the money? Seems like they and you do not care likely all for fi$cal reasons. Rock on.
I guess then you will stay away from grading it would seem which such a sour viewpoint...Thank you for your input and seems like you don't need a grading company to tell you what the condition of a card is? No?
I do not want trimmed or Color touched cards that you appear to covet and defend to the hilt.
In general aperspective of defending the actions and results of those whom scam and fraud is not one an ethical person will agree with.
Will be enlightening and likely saddening to see here how many agree with that perspective
Hmm...it seems like you think PSA and Mike Baker or others are Intentionally slabbing trimmed cards...actually to the contrary I have seen way way too many posts on here indicating their cards were sent back for minimum size requirements or altered when they came straight from wax or other unopened product (this fact seems to be indicative of a very sensitive judgement call process in grading)...it has happened to me as well...I think they are doing the best they can at detecting altered cards...again if you can do better especially with PRE 1950's cards I suggest that you seize the opportunity and add value to the hobby by detecting cards that the current grading techniques miss..
I do not want trimmed or Color touched cards that you appear to covet and defend to the hilt.
In general aperspective of defending the actions and results of those whom scam and fraud is not one an ethical person will agree with.
Will be enlightening and likely saddening to see here how many agree with that perspective
Hmm...it seems like you think PSA and Mike Baker or others are Intentionally slabbing trimmed cards...actually to the contrary I have seen way way too many posts on here indicating their cards were sent back for minimum size requirements or altered when they came straight from wax or other unopened product (this fact seems to be indicative of a very sensitive judgement call process in grading)...it has happened to me as well...I think they are doing the best they can at detecting altered cards...again if you can do better especially with PRE 1950's cards I suggest that you seize the opportunity and add value to the hobby by detecting cards that the current grading techniques miss..
I agree. I think they always try to do their best and be the most correct. I also think just normal business decisions can impact how effective those decisions are too. Generally, I think PSA tries to do the right thing within their culture. It can't always be right, I won't always be happy about the way they do it and I have the ability to stop using them if I hate it too much.
As a vintage guy I run into their system more than any modern guy grading probably does too.
To me it seems you have zero issue with trimming and color touches because you feel it cant be detected. If so then you are wrong it can but no one wants to invest in it.
In terms of color touches most can be detected simply with correct light. Cheap and fast yet apparently nevet done.
Any one defending scammers and fraudsters like Brent, Mastro, etc is almost assuredly someone who benefit$ from it. Disgusting, Despicable behavior, Capish...
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
To me it seems you have zero issue with trimming and color touches because you feel it cant be detected. If so then you are wrong it can but no one wants to invest in it.
In terms of color touches most can be detected simply with correct light. Cheap and fast yet apparently nevet done.
Any one defending scammers and fraudsters like Brent, Mastro, etc is almost assuredly someone who benefit$ from it. Disgusting, Despicable behavior, Capish...
I don't agree with fraudulent behavior such as trimming, color touches etc but my thinking is that if grading is catching like 99% of these types of cards and to get that last 1% is likely COST PROHIBITIVE...for example a city might spend $10 million to design their levees to protect against 99% of all rain storms but that 1 in a 100 year rain storm will cause the Levee to break...now to protect that last 1 in a 100 year rainstorm might cost like $100 million...so now I hope you are capishing and when the levee breaks you'll understand...it is just the way it is!!!!
^ Now that you have totally caused the "When The Levee Breaks" to ear-worm in my head its become blatantly apparent we'll never agree. So for the sake of everyone else here I'm willing to end our dialog if you are.
I'll now go listen to some Zepp and possibly some Memphis Minnie.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
^ Now that you have totally caused the "When The Levee Breaks" to ear-worm in my head its become blatantly apparent we'll never agree. So for the sake of everyone else here I'm willing to end our dialog if you are.
I'll now go listen to some Zepp and possibly some Memphis Minnie.
@1982FBWaxMemories said:
^ Now that you have totally caused the "When The Levee Breaks" to ear-worm in my head its become blatantly apparent we'll never agree. So for the sake of everyone else here I'm willing to end our dialog if you are.
I'll now go listen to some Zepp and possibly some Memphis Minnie.
Haha...Right on!...can't go wrong there!
Darn, just great, now we agree on something and I was here only for the argument.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
@bgr said:
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the
edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Not true. I desire that all trimmed cards are detected. Can only help the hobby to get the trimmed cards labeled appropriately as “altered”. If already given a numeric grade, then the grading company simply needs to make the current owner whole financially and relabel it for potential future owners.
No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Not true. I desire that all trimmed cards are detected. Can only help the hobby to get the trimmed cards labeled appropriately as “altered”. If already given a numeric grade, then the grading company simply needs to make the current owner whole financially and relabel it for potential future owners.
I like your sentiment and wish it permeated through the hobby, but too much too much potential lo$$ for PSA.
Documented USA Public Record that it was trimmed by Bill Mastro. Admitted to in open USA Federal Court more than a decade ago and yet PSA previous and current ownership still refuses to acknowledge the trimming.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
I own one restored comic book. Graded by CGC, Restored Grade. CGC notes that it has color touch and pieces added. I don't know the extent of the restoration. I have looked at it and thought I could see some color touch. Other times I have looked at it and not been able to see any restoration. I can't see at all where any pieces have been added. Really tough to see really fine details in the case. There are levels of restoration. Professional restoration and armature restoration. Even a kid with a piece of scotch tape is restoration/repair. I bought this comic because it was considerably cheaper than a non restored version for the level of presentation. It looks great. But, it's a 4. Presents considerably higher. The book is also scarce. A comic book is a much different thing than a card.
I don't think PSA has a restored grade? I think they say authentic altered. I don't think they assign a number to an altered card?
I like the idea of a restored card a lot less than I like the idea of a restored comic. A card is a much simpler thing than a comic book.
@bgr said:
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the
edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Hardly. I recommend education to anyone who appears to be lacking. Most issues in our world would be solved with investment in education and here it’s free for anyone with an internet connection. What is truly alarming to me is when an adult goes online and spreads misinformation. Whether based in malice or ignorance false information presented as objective fact is an American illness.
Would you like to follow up with a description of the technology and describe the practical application?
@bgr said:
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the
edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Hardly. I recommend education to anyone who appears to be lacking. Most issues in our world would be solved with investment in education and here it’s free for anyone with an internet connection. What is truly alarming to me is when an adult goes online and spreads misinformation. Whether based in malice or ignorance false information presented as objective fact is an American illness.
Would you like to follow up with a description of the technology and describe the practical application?
Nah ain't gonna play.
But since this is primarily a Baseball/Baseball card sun-forum:
Brewers have a long year ahead them giving away the farm so to speak for a handful of beans that teams like the Mutts were so so so very willing to give away. All the losing the Crew will do this season will provide you ample fuel for your rage and hate fires. Good luck with that.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972) Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
@bgr said:
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the
edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Hardly. I recommend education to anyone who appears to be lacking. Most issues in our world would be solved with investment in education and here it’s free for anyone with an internet connection. What is truly alarming to me is when an adult goes online and spreads misinformation. Whether based in malice or ignorance false information presented as objective fact is an American illness.
Would you like to follow up with a description of the technology and describe the practical application?
That is spot on! Before I even scrolled down I knew he wouldn't be able to answer your question 😂
How much did it sale for is one of the funniest and most ignorant things I've ever heard.
@bgr said:
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the
edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
Hardly. I recommend education to anyone who appears to be lacking. Most issues in our world would be solved with investment in education and here it’s free for anyone with an internet connection. What is truly alarming to me is when an adult goes online and spreads misinformation. Whether based in malice or ignorance false information presented as objective fact is an American illness.
Would you like to follow up with a description of the technology and describe the practical application?
Nah ain't gonna play.
But since this is primarily a Baseball/Baseball card sun-forum:
Brewers have a long year ahead them giving away the farm so to speak for a handful of beans that teams like the Mutts were so so so very willing to give away. All the losing the Crew will do this season will provide you ample fuel for your rage and hate fires. Good luck with that.
I appreciate the effort but it misses the mark with this fan. I think you’re making too much of a snarky remark. You remain in the dark on the technology you often speak to.
Comments
I can see it being confusing for two reasons. Hey, PSA gets 3800. We get 3700. I get the point that its like hey it impressive we almost got as much. But at first glance why do you highlight that the card in your holder sold for less. I mean it is impressive but it kind of doesn't look right in terms of an ad that highlights less money in your holder. Maybe a different angle hits people in a better way. Happy customers. Turnaround time. Low price to submit. Great that you got to that point of being close on the one card but maybe it leaves the impression of hey skip MBA and the stickers and just go PSA, $100 more. If you are highlighting the one where its 98% or so of the PSA price, probably a lot of others much lower.
Then the thing discussed here in this thread. Its your card and you reviewed it and put a better than the grade sticker on your own card. Which says something odd about the original grade given. If they want to play the all these variations of an 8 game maybe they just need an 8.1 8.2 8.3 grade. The sticker on the PSA Beckett CGC card works more cause its like our second opinion suggests they maybe undergraded. Seeing the MBA sticker on an MBA graded card looks like they undergraded even though I'm sure there is a detailed explanation of how it works. Just feels like a weird look I think.
Also maybe has the feel of Mr. Mint saying hey the card I sold was the best. Thanks for the unbiased opinion.
ha ha, you must be a fan of SCR! I sure miss those guys being on every week. they would have a field day with all that is currently going on.
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
@UlyssesExtravaganza I think you have a good take there. it is a really odd thing to do with your own slabs.
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
Not a fan of their but they did coin a great nickname
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
that and their theme song, "you ruined the hobby I love, Geoff Wilson, Geoff Wilson..."
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
Did they really create a song?!
Those who lie in bed with Brents will get fleas
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
they actually did. a rap song!! go onto their youtube channel and check it out.
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
From Brent's former Defense Attorney Jeffrey Lichtman:
I’m less concerned with Mile High’s site issues than I am with the auction house becoming a dumping ground for trimmed MBA garbage. It’s clear that you submit to MBA because you can’t get your altered card past PSA or SGC
https://www.blowoutforums.com/showthread.php?t=1623005&page=3
https://www.net54baseball.com/showpost.php?p=2560504&postcount=81
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/1829002/2020/05/22/how-a-scandal-unraveled-and-shaped-the-battle-for-card-collectings-soul/
If Baker is slabbing trimmed and color altered cards, as alleged (if not already proven to anyone with common sense) by many including those who were in his cohort Brent's inner circle, then there logically is less than 0% chance Baker is concerned with trimming and color alteration as part of his process for placing stickers on slabs.
@mintonlypls as the seemingly largest proponent of Mr. Baker on this forum what are your thoughts from not only your personal fiscal perspective but also from an ethical standpoint. In addition your thoughts on why he has chosen to align himself with Mr. Huigens of all people
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Around 2010, I unbeknownst bought a 1964 Pete Rose GAI-9 (trimmed, later discovered and a learning experience) from Mile High…and ever since I will not bid on lots in Mile High Auction.
As far as MBA…I will submit PSA or SGC cards to evaluate for exceptional eye appeal (silver diamond) or undergraded in his opinion (gold diamond). I assume his MBA slabs are from raw cards…so am hesitant to purchase there. I do like his service of cards already in either PSA or SGC holders.
Do you agree trimming and color altering detection and notation is not part of the evaluation for Mr Baker's sticker-ing service?
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Don’t know…I would assume trimming and altering is part of his evaluation on PSA or SGC holdered cards.
@1982FBWaxMemories, I saw those posts over on 54. I think it is beyond a shadow that Baker and MBA are bad actors. he is either incompetent or corrupt when it comes to actually grading cards. i am not sure which is worse honestly.
if he cannot (or will not) accurately grade cards, how can anyone expect his stickers to be an accurate representation of what resides in another companies slab?
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
Curious as to why you would assume (when you ASSume
) that when its not (allegedly) a consideration in cards he slabs with his own company. In addition it may have been a card that his business associate Brent had worked or was involved with in the past.
From a business standpoint it would seem way to dangerous, a lose-lose situation, for him to do so for the factor mentioned as well as create irate customers who might never use his sticker service again. Plus then word getting around might cause other potential customers to shy away.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
I am only referring to already holdered cards by PSA or SGC …evaluating raw could be a different animal. I will only buy PSA or SGC cards.
I have checked certification numbers against a list of bad cards on Blowout Forum…and mine
are not on the list.
Bottom line he's not checking PSA & SGC slabs for trimming and color alterations for his sticker service. There simply no proof he does so and he would be a foolish to do so from every logical $tandpoint.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Agree to disagree…which is okay…to each his or her own. My last comment about current discussion.
You could go to any so-called expert. Ask them to give you an evaluation. Pay a price. Get a sticker. Nothing nefarious about it. Just some company doing business. Acceptable.
You don't need to dwell on anything else they do aside from the obligation they have to you. In any business, we will find that there are methods which may not necessarily be agreeable. We can expose them and let those who have a vested interest decide for themselves what to do.
Out of respect for one individual who simply wants to make good use of the methods, it doesn't seem necessary to pressure that same individual to defend his position on the matter. He's made up his mind what is safe for him. We should all respect that.
As long as he's not hawking 1990 Fleer Basketball Wax
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Hmmm...met Mr. Baker way way back when he worked at PSA...He seemed very very knowledgeable at the time and was regarded as a top expert...High grade LEGIT LEGIT Old Old vintage cards (like Pre 1950) are prolly TOUGH TOUGH to verify from maybe a trimmed card as to my knowledge the tolerances for cardboard during that era were larger than 1960's on cards...For these LEGIT high grade REAL UNTRIMMED specimens it would seem a crap shoot wouldn't you say? Maybe some of you who think they can do a better job would prosper in the grading of pre 1950's cards...Just my perception of this situation.
Just a question concerning all this and not about a specific individual (I don't know any of these folks):
Doesn't any grading service have it written in their small print that all these services are completely subjective and that they don't make any specific and total determinations on any grades?
Wouldn't they all have to do that since no grading service could ever be 100% accurate? Seems like a necessary loophole that protects them while potentially ripping off a customer while also guaranteeing no one can be the final arbiter of anything.
i have to admit based on what i have read on this thread, that their could be some bad stuff going on. especially if they buy and put stickers on their purchases. conflict of interest. i do kind of like the concept, but these actors don't appear to have the best interest of the hobby.
No.
Show me a Mint Trimmed 1941 Playball Joe Dimaggio that falls within the known tolerance variance and I'll Show you a Mint LEGIT REAL UNTRIMMED 1941 Playball Joe Dimaggio that falls within the tolerances as well... CAPISH?
With today's tech no reason why size is the sole determiner. A 70 year old card trimmed in the last decade or so will have display variances on the edges even if microscopic.
Not to mention scanning surfaces and comparing to past scans to see if the card has been graded in past to determine if trimmed - simple matter for any devent AI. The tech also would very easily detecy color alterations.
It's 2026 the only reason PSA does not employee modern methods to detect alterations os they don't want to or care to. Apparently some right here in this thread don't want that either.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
There you go, experts like you are needed to prevent mistakes. Seems like you have a viable way to compete with PSA by being more accurate and trusted. I think I would send some cards to you for grading. Rock On!!
So you like trimmed and color retouched cards.
Your usual snark aside the tech exists, capish. The only question is does PSA want to spend the money? Seems like they and you do not care likely all for fi$cal reasons. Rock on.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
I think they are nervous of implementing true AI because of how many altered cards are currently in slabs. can you imagine the guarrantee payouts due to ai reviews?
George Brett, Roger Clemens and Tommy Brady.
And by Purchasing SGC and Beckett they have ensured most of real competition cannot either.
MBA certainly won't as slabbing trimmed cards is seemingly part of their business model fabric. Brent plus his contacts represent the pinnacle of trimming and color touching arena. Mile High has become a lucrative clearing house for them.
CGC turns a blind eye on trimming for their largest client submitters of Comic Books...Cards no exception.
As for TAG who on earth is sending them 1950s and earlier stuff.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
I love raw cards undisturbed by trimmers, skimmers, TV dinners and spotlight dimmers. They're real and they're spectacular.
I guess then you will stay away from grading it would seem which such a sour viewpoint...Thank you for your input and seems like you don't need a grading company to tell you what the condition of a card is? No?
I care about the card not the flip.
I do not want trimmed or Color touched cards that you appear to covet and defend to the hilt.
In general aperspective of defending the actions and results of those whom scam and fraud is not one an ethical person will agree with.
Will be enlightening and likely saddening to see here how many agree with that perspective
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Hmm...it seems like you think PSA and Mike Baker or others are Intentionally slabbing trimmed cards...actually to the contrary I have seen way way too many posts on here indicating their cards were sent back for minimum size requirements or altered when they came straight from wax or other unopened product (this fact seems to be indicative of a very sensitive judgement call process in grading)...it has happened to me as well...I think they are doing the best they can at detecting altered cards...again if you can do better especially with PRE 1950's cards I suggest that you seize the opportunity and add value to the hobby by detecting cards that the current grading techniques miss..
I agree. I think they always try to do their best and be the most correct. I also think just normal business decisions can impact how effective those decisions are too. Generally, I think PSA tries to do the right thing within their culture. It can't always be right, I won't always be happy about the way they do it and I have the ability to stop using them if I hate it too much.
As a vintage guy I run into their system more than any modern guy grading probably does too.
Hometown what's your point anyhow?
To me it seems you have zero issue with trimming and color touches because you feel it cant be detected. If so then you are wrong it can but no one wants to invest in it.
In terms of color touches most can be detected simply with correct light. Cheap and fast yet apparently nevet done.
Any one defending scammers and fraudsters like Brent, Mastro, etc is almost assuredly someone who benefit$ from it. Disgusting, Despicable behavior, Capish...
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
I don't agree with fraudulent behavior such as trimming, color touches etc but my thinking is that if grading is catching like 99% of these types of cards and to get that last 1% is likely COST PROHIBITIVE...for example a city might spend $10 million to design their levees to protect against 99% of all rain storms but that 1 in a 100 year rain storm will cause the Levee to break...now to protect that last 1 in a 100 year rainstorm might cost like $100 million...so now I hope you are capishing and when the levee breaks you'll understand...it is just the way it is!!!!
^ Now that you have totally caused the "When The Levee Breaks" to ear-worm in my head its become blatantly apparent we'll never agree. So for the sake of everyone else here I'm willing to end our dialog if you are.
I'll now go listen to some Zepp and possibly some Memphis Minnie.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Haha...Right on!...can't go wrong there!
Darn, just great, now we agree on something and I was here only for the argument.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
There exists zero technology that can tell if a card was cut in 1930 vs 1990. If you think they’re looking at the oxidation of the edge fibers you’ve been watching too much CSI and might want to think about turning your brain back in or investing in some education. But seriously. LOL.
Appears your sole intent is to slinging insult and launch attacks rather than engage in any sort of intelligent debate or discussion. You seem to harbor vast anger.
Regardless of the debate about tech existing or not I guess, the Bottom line is folks; No one truly desires that all trimmed cards are detected. Not PSA, Not Sellers and Not collectors who already own a card that may have been trimmed.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
Not true. I desire that all trimmed cards are detected. Can only help the hobby to get the trimmed cards labeled appropriately as “altered”. If already given a numeric grade, then the grading company simply needs to make the current owner whole financially and relabel it for potential future owners.
I’m with Chris. I hate the concept of doctoring cards and I don’t even collect vintage.
John
I like your sentiment and wish it permeated through the hobby, but too much too much potential lo$$ for PSA.
Take for example: https://www.psacard.com/cert/00000001/psa
https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndil/pr/former-owner-mastro-auctions-sentenced-20-months-federal-prison-shill-bidding-scam
Documented USA Public Record that it was trimmed by Bill Mastro. Admitted to in open USA Federal Court more than a decade ago and yet PSA previous and current ownership still refuses to acknowledge the trimming.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
off the rails!!!
I own one restored comic book. Graded by CGC, Restored Grade. CGC notes that it has color touch and pieces added. I don't know the extent of the restoration. I have looked at it and thought I could see some color touch. Other times I have looked at it and not been able to see any restoration. I can't see at all where any pieces have been added. Really tough to see really fine details in the case. There are levels of restoration. Professional restoration and armature restoration. Even a kid with a piece of scotch tape is restoration/repair. I bought this comic because it was considerably cheaper than a non restored version for the level of presentation. It looks great. But, it's a 4. Presents considerably higher. The book is also scarce. A comic book is a much different thing than a card.
I don't think PSA has a restored grade? I think they say authentic altered. I don't think they assign a number to an altered card?
I like the idea of a restored card a lot less than I like the idea of a restored comic. A card is a much simpler thing than a comic book.
Hardly. I recommend education to anyone who appears to be lacking. Most issues in our world would be solved with investment in education and here it’s free for anyone with an internet connection. What is truly alarming to me is when an adult goes online and spreads misinformation. Whether based in malice or ignorance false information presented as objective fact is an American illness.
Would you like to follow up with a description of the technology and describe the practical application?
Nah ain't gonna play.
But since this is primarily a Baseball/Baseball card sun-forum:
Brewers have a long year ahead them giving away the farm so to speak for a handful of beans that teams like the Mutts were so so so very willing to give away. All the losing the Crew will do this season will provide you ample fuel for your rage and hate fires. Good luck with that.
It's the singer not the song - Peter Townshend (1972)
Not even a minute do I buy the whole buh buh buh I'm a man-child japery - Me (2025)
That is spot on! Before I even scrolled down I knew he wouldn't be able to answer your question 😂
How much did it sale for is one of the funniest and most ignorant things I've ever heard.
I appreciate the effort but it misses the mark with this fan. I think you’re making too much of a snarky remark. You remain in the dark on the technology you often speak to.