Authentication & Grading – Frequently Asked Questions

What is grading?

Grading is a way of determining the physical condition of an item, such as "poor quality" or "mint condition." The actual grading system is dependent on the type of item being graded.

What is authentication?

Authentication is a way of determining whether an item is genuine and described appropriately. Because of their training and experience, experts can often detect counterfeits from subtle details. However, you should know that two expert authenticators may differ on the authenticity of the same item.

I'm a listing trader. How do authentication and grading benefit me?

Listing traders can boost a prospective trader’s confidence by having items pre-authenticated by an independent authenticator before listing an item. Any member trader can promote the fact that an independent expert has approved the item which will let prospective trading partners know that the item has been examined by a highly qualified, experienced professional who has pledged to provide an unbiased opinion.

I'm an acquiring trader. How do authentication and grading benefit me?

Acquiring traders can use these authentication and grading services to evaluate an item before submitting an offer to trade on it. For a small fee, an independent, experienced evaluator can help examine a listing on Wannatrade and point out potential problems with an autograph. Any trader can also use these authentication and grading services to get a thorough evaluation of a recently purchased item.

Will Wannatrade act if an expert says that an item listed for trade on Wannatrade is not accurately represented?

It depends on the situation. However, Wannatrade reserves the right to remove any item listed at our discretion if we believe that its trade might create liability for the acquiring trader, the listing trader, or any third party.

What has Wannatrade done to ensure that these companies are truly good services?

The authentication companies listed are all professional, independent evaluators. Wannatrade has reviewed the credentials of these authenticators and each has a good reputation in their field. Wannatrade has obtained a pledge from these evaluators that they will offer their services to our trading community, and maintain independence from any individual party so that they can evaluate an item without a conflict of interest. The authenticators have also pledged not to list items for trade or acquire listed items on our core site, thus keeping them out of competition with the very traders they are serving. They have also promised to provide Wannatrade users with very competitive prices.

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