Hi MR
Yeah, I'm not a collector so I figured that you guys would know better.
You bring up an interesting topic
@Alticus because the same issues come up in other collecting hobbies.
Coin, comic book collecting, and especially Art.
When you buy something, you've gotta find out some way to make sure it's authentic.
Is it a fake? Haa\s it been altered? Things that will affect its grade, its value, etc.
I generally don't buy items unless they're from a respectable auction house or seller.
And then, does it have a COA (Certificate of Authenticity)?
I've been burned a couple of times, and made some poor purchases.
Generally tho, I come out on top, try to buy below market value.
Always try to look for a bargain.
But you gotta find a balance between quality, authenticity, grade, perceived vs actual value.
And one question might be - can I turn around and re-sell it one day for a profit or at least break even so I don't lose money on it. Is there a demand for this item?