I can only assume though, that at some point it is not cost-effective to have your items graded and authenticated. Even though the collecting community uses price guides to determine the relative value of collectibles, their figures are based totally on the subjective market value of the item. What actually determines the value of your item is the price someone is willing to pay for it. Grading itself is also such a subjective matter. Often times, the grading process is more expensive than it's worth.
Many casual collectors accumulate simply for the love of the player, team or sport.
I know that when I obtain a card, autograph, or photo of a player, it's because I admire and respect that person. Grading is not important to me as a collector, because I am not concerned with resale value. Many people are though, and I presume that such issues are more important to them. I really do wonder, however, what percentage of hockey collectors out there consider investment their first priority. Well, anyway, food for thought.