2Sunny Posted June 18, 2023 Share Posted June 18, 2023 (edited) First, I'm learning about 2 new to me topics here so feel free to offer more info if you think it's relevant as regards "square bound" comics and misplaced staples. I bought this from MCS. They graded it as 8.5. Upon close inspection the staples are about 1/4 inch in from the edge and do not appear on the outside of the book, they have left a dimple on the top at the 200th anniversary banner area and a color breaking dimple on the bottom. Questions: 1) Am I correct that this is a "square bound" comic? If so how do I know for sure? 2) Are the staples misplaced? 3) Ignoring other potential flaws for the moment, how do you think CGC would grade this situation and what would the criteria be? Might this be considered a bindery defect? Just so everyone knows; I am perfectly satisfied with the purchase and only ask because I want to learn something new. Thanks to anyone that can help. Edited June 18, 2023 by 2Sunny Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WeR138 Posted June 18, 2023 Share Posted June 18, 2023 Perfectly normal. That is a square-bound book and those are some of the characteristics of the bindery of that type of book. MCS usually grades a little lower than it actually is in my experience. steveinthecity 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
grendelbo Posted June 19, 2023 Share Posted June 19, 2023 8.5 from MCS is a grade or two higher from CGC. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JollyComics Posted June 19, 2023 Share Posted June 19, 2023 MCS is an old school grader. I have purchased multiple books from MCS for years and I never am disappointed after CGC graded my books - one grade or better. One time, I bought Showcase #80 - 1st SA Phantom Stranger. MSC graded it 9.4 then CGC graded it 9.8. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
OtherEric Posted June 19, 2023 Share Posted June 19, 2023 MCS under grades the books 99% of the time, yours is probably a 9.0 or better. The staples are correct for a squarebound book of the era. thehumantorch 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
october Posted June 19, 2023 Share Posted June 19, 2023 MCS comics are generally accurate, often conservative, and occasionally ludicrously undergraded. Randall Dowling and OtherEric 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
