The Great Card Clean-Up Controversy: To Clean or Not to Clean?
, by David Riska, 4 min reading time
In the world of sports card collecting, a storm has been brewing, one that could potentially alter the landscape of how we view, treat, and value our cherished collectibles. Today, we dive deep into the heart of a debate that's been causing ripples across the community: the ethics and implications of card cleaning. With the spotlight on a recents incidents from PSA regarding cards being cleaned
The Controversy Unfolds
The saga begins with the multiple card cleaning products available today and some recent grading where the collectors managed to secure a PSA 10 grade on some cards where they mentioned using these cleaning products. This revelation sparked a wildfire of discussions and debates within the sports card hobbyist community. PSA's president, Ryan Ho, was quick to respond, stating unequivocally that the use of any chemicals or foreign substances on cards was not approved by PSA. This statement has thrown a wrench into the practices of many collectors and raised questions about the future of card cleaning and restoration.
The Fine Line Between Cleaning, Restoration, and Alteration
The crux of the debate lies in distinguishing between cleaning, restoration, and alteration. Cleaning involves the removal of substances from the surface of the card, a seemingly harmless practice that, until now, flew under the radar. Restoration, a technique borrowed from the art world, involves reviving a card's condition without altering its original state. Alteration, however, is where the lines are severely drawn, with practices like trimming and recoloring being universally condemned.
A Call for Clarity and Acceptance
The controversy has shed light on the need for clear guidelines and acceptance of certain practices within the sports card community. Comparisons to the art and comic book worlds, where restoration is widely accepted, suggest that the sports card hobby could benefit from a more lenient approach to card care. The suggestion that PSA endorse or even produce its own line of approved cleaning products is a testament to the evolving nature of the hobby and the potential for innovation within the industry.
The Future of Card Cleaning
As we stand at the crossroads of tradition and evolution, the question remains: should card cleaning be allowed? The answer is not straightforward, but what is clear is the need for an open dialogue and a willingness to adapt. The sports card world is vibrant and diverse, and its practices should reflect the changing times. Whether or not PSA decides to revise its stance, the conversation around card cleaning has only just begun.
A Hobby in Flux
The great card clean-up controversy is more than just a debate; it's a reflection of a hobby in flux, grappling with its identity and the values it holds dear. As collectors, investors, and enthusiasts, the path we choose to take will shape the future of sports card collecting for generations to come. Let's navigate this controversy with open minds and a shared passion for the cards that bring us together.
In the end, whether you're for or against card cleaning (we are for cleaning but definitely not for altering), one thing is undeniable: the sports card community is alive with passion and debate, a testament to the love and dedication we all share for this hobby. Let's continue the conversation, not as adversaries, but as fellow collectors navigating the ever-changing landscape of sports card collecting.
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