Alt vs. BGS showdown 🔥

PLUS: Are Type I photos a thing now? 🤔

March 15, 2024

Rise and shine, card enthusiasts! This is Penny Sleeve, the sports card newsletter that’s sharper than the edges of a gem mint rookie card.

Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

  • Alt vs. BGS showdown 🔥

  • Are Type I photos a thing now? 🤔

  • People to follow in the hobby 👥

  • Meme of the day 🃏

ALT VS. BGS SHOWDOWN 🔥

The world of sports card collecting is witnessing one of its most thrilling legal battles to date. The clash? A high-stakes lawsuit between Alt, the card marketplace, and Beckett Grading Services (BGS), over a trimmed Steph Curry rookie card that's caused quite the stir. Initially filed in December 2022, this case has evolved far beyond a mere disagreement over card grading – it's now a nail-biter questioning the reliability and legal responsibilities of card grading services.

Here's the gist: Alt shelled out a cool $168,000 for what they believed was a gem mint 2009 Topps Chrome Steph Curry Gold Refractor, graded a 9.5 by BGS. The plot thickened when Alt decided to crack the slab and send the card off to PSA, who promptly flagged the card as trimmed. Alt then sent the card back to BGS, who confirmed PSA’s findings.

As the saga unfolds, both Alt and BGS are duking it out in court, raising questions about what role grading services should play in protecting the integrity and wallets of collectors in the hobby. The outcome of this case could slam-dunk some major changes in how sports cards are evaluated, potentially altering the game for collectors, investors, and grading companies alike.

Stay tuned, folks. The verdict in Alt vs. BGS may just redefine the rules of the game for the sports card market, shining a spotlight on the shadowy practice of card trimming and the responsibilities of those who grade them.

ARE TYPE I PHOTOS A THING NOW? 🤔

A new contender has emerged in the world of sports collectibles, capturing the hearts and imaginations of enthusiasts: Type I vintage sports photography. These are not just any old photos — they're the real deal, developed from the original negative within two years of the click. The allure of these snapshots lies in their authenticity and their power to transport collectors back to iconic moments in sports history.

Yet, as this market gains momentum, it's not without its hurdles. Collectors face a growing scrutiny over the processes that authenticate these historical treasures. The skepticism revolves around several pressing concerns: How do we determine the true age of these photographs? Are those tasked with verifying their authenticity truly unbiased? The emerging discourse is reminiscent of past controversies in the collectibles world, questioning the very foundation of what is considered genuine.

Despite the murmurings of uncertainty, the desire to own a tangible piece of sports lore perseveres. The thrill of acquiring an image that encapsulates athletic brilliance and raw emotion continues to draw a dedicated following. Amidst the excitement, a collective demand for greater scrutiny and transparency in the authentication process is growing louder.

PEOPLE TO FOLLOW IN THE HOBBY

MEME OF THE DAY

Anyone else 😂