1999-00 Upper Deck MJ - The Master Collection base set (128/500)

[RKH916]

I got dragged on reddit for this purchase, so I'll get the details out of the road first for those curious... I purchased this from a card shop here in Australia that has been in possession of this since release. Paid ~US $3.5k. Comment on reddit was something along the lines of "he separated the valuable cards and sold you an overpriced box", or something to that extent.

I knew what I was buying - matching serial set to 500, original packaging and box, and I'm able to piece together two of the missing cards as they're not serial matched to the set. The autos are ridiculously high priced now, but maybe one day. I would have actually paid more than what I did for this, as I consider it a legendary piece and probably one of the few if only chances I'd have to get it.

Anyway with that out of the road... I need some experienced opinions here. 4 of the cards are showing signs of separation, because the front and back were actually printed on separate pieces. Temperature and age have obviously lead to issues with the adhesive.

Everything else about the cards is immaculate. Do I get them graded/slabbed to try to preserve them from any further degradation? The idea of oddly graded set that no longer fits in the original box is bothersome to me, but separated cards is obviously worse. What would you do?



Full album of individual cards here for those interested:
https://ibb.co/album/QFsqn8

Video of set & individual cards:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAu0I1FNc_w/


Picture of separation issue:


Appreciate any help/insight/opinions in advance

[Nomad]

If you get em graded they will look cheap and tacky and not fit in the box. But if you are selling as singles, why not? I don't see how a slab would do anything. They are specifically designed not to compress or anything which would affect splitting, right?

I guess a screw down holder is your only option.

[RKH916]

Originally Posted by Nomad

If you get em graded they will look cheap and tacky and not fit in the box. But if you are selling as singles, why not? I don't see how a slab would do anything. They are specifically designed to to compress or anything which would affect splitting, right?

Good point.

I'm not going to split & flip though, that'd be a shame to me.

[thenatural23]

first off, i love this purchase even if the auto, jersey and mystery card/pack are missing. congrats on the beautiful pick up.

second, if you did go the grading route is there anyway to get a custom foam insert for the box that accommodates psa holders? width and height wise it looks like three stacks of psa holders could fit in there, however it may not have enough depth to fit them... can't tell by the pics.

if that's not possible, i'd honestly just keep them as is - most collectors with knowledge of this set won't be deterred.

[RKH916]

Originally Posted by thenatural23

first off, i love this purchase even if the auto, jersey and mystery card/pack are missing. congrats on the beautiful pick up.

second, if you did go the grading route is there anyway to get a custom foam insert for the box that accommodates psa holders? width and height wise it looks like three stacks of psa holders could fit in there, however it may not have enough depth to fit them... can't tell by the pics.

if that's not possible, i'd honestly just keep them as is - most collectors with knowledge of this set won't be deterred.

Thanks man. I don't think it'd accommodate the depth unfortunately.



This is depressing...

A couple of the autos are up for auction on PWCC/Fanatics this week


https://www.fanaticscollect.com/item...auto-50-psa-10

Currently @ 13k with 4 days remaining

https://www.fanaticscollect.com/item...-50-mj7-psa-10

Currently @ 6.7k with 4 days remaining

[TheGoatOfLife]

Just keep them raw as is! Why desire a certain type of condition but rather focus on just having the completed set!


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