Record prices directly attributed to unbiased third party authentication and grading.

The collectibles world is talking about the recent auctioning of astronaut Neil Armstrong’s collection November 1-3, 2018. Nearly 1000 lots realized $5,276,320, far exceeding the most optimistic expectations.

Each item in the auction was independently authenticated by CAG, a division of CCG, the same folks that certify the vintage concert posters and handbills we offer.

The auctioneer for the collection stated, “ CAG unlocked tremendous value for the Armstrong Family Collection by giving bidders greater confidence in the authenticity and provenance of the artifacts. At the same time, CAG delivered significant long term value and protection to buyers through its guarantee, impartial assessments and protective holders. CAG’s certification made it far easier for us to auction the collection and likewise for our clients to evaluate and bid on it.”

This is yet another in an endless list of examples of how important independent, third party authentication and grading is to the collectibles marketplace. Third party authentication provides confidence, and an unbiased opinion on condition is critical when small differences in quality means huge differences in value.

When it comes to vintage concert posters and handbills, CGC grading is particularly instrumental in bringing scores of new collectors (buyers) into the marketplace. Collectors no longer have to worry about figuring out for themselves whether an item is a) authentic, b) a first printing or reprint, or c) possesses hidden restoration that can be difficult to see.

For sellers, CGC is an absolute must if one wishes to receive the record prices and added liquidity that CGC graded posters and handbills are now commanding.

We believe these are still the very earliest days of this emerging trend and look for premiums of each grade level to increase as collectors begin to fully understand how strict CGC grading is and how little supply exist at the top end of the market.