How credible is GAI authentication services?

[wavescrashing]

There's a card i want to buy, but am not sure how credible or valued Global Authentication (GAI) really is.
Anybody have any insight?

[heroesandhobbyz]

I see that it is listed in Beckett, and my preferred SCD is not, so I guess it is okay. Have you GOOGLE'd it yet? Also, see what they are selling for on eBay. I think PSA is still the industry leader. I don't think Beckett should have gotten into it (grading) and have yet to support their slabbed cards. Just my opinion. Anyone else?

Steve

[YooperTrav]

I have delt with GAI via the mail and in person and I think they are as good as anybody

[wavescrashing]

Thanks for the info. I just won this:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...MEWA%3AIT&rd=1

At least i know it's authentic :)

[bjfan82]

They're one of the more respected and you should be safe with them. GAI, SGC, PSA, BGS are the most credible. BGS is by far the most credible - tougher standards, etc have lead to higher secondary market values, PSA is also very good, close to BGS but not the best anymore. I only deal with BGS and occasionally PSA but that is it.

[heroesandhobbyz]

Nice Payton auto card and a very nice website. You have some great cards! See ya on the boards...

Steve

[wavescrashing]

Thanks steve. I'm pretty experienced with cards in general, but have never sent any autographed memorabilia or uncertified cards for authentication, thus my original question.
Thanks for the help.
Mike

[heroesandhobbyz]

Mike,

I realized after I first replied that GAI may have been the "only" company grading autographed cards (at least I recall them being the first). I have been "out" since 9/11 and can't even find my preferred SCD anymore (did they get out of grading? I will have to check the net about them). I never could quite figure out how a company can validate a signature though - I mean a signature will be altered or look diffent depending on how it was received. I have gotten plenty of in-person autos and most appear as scribbles - nothing like their actual sigs! I trust the card companies that are putting them out in the marketplace, but you never know!

Peace,
Steve

[Tri_Fecta]

GAI was started by the original psa owner.good company i hear.

[heroesandhobbyz]

Tri ~

That is correct. I also was able to confirm that SCD has resigned themselves from the grading service...just my luck! I have about four certificates for free gradings that I can't use. Bummed! Going to bed.

Peace,
Steve