[Rob D.]

I think the biggest misstep a collector -- whether it be someone who's new to prewar or a veteran -- can make is to be overly influenced by what the current "hot" issue is or what other people are talking about at the time. Collecting T206 backs are all the rage right now, and you see more people posting that they want to buy them. Chances are good that a year from now, when T206 backs have fallen out of the spotlight, many of these these same folks will be looking to sell. The same thing happened 12-18 months ago with a few of the E-card sets.

The downside to this, aside from the fact that your collection will lack focus, is you'll probably lose money each time you change direction. Plus, it will feel like often your chase is being dictated by other collectors or the market.

If you think you have the patience to try to put together a set (and many collectors don't!), then that would be a great start. Or maybe collecting an individual player or team might be the route to go.

Decide what area you like, and as has previously been posted, what makes you happy. You'll find yourself "refocusing" your interests less and likely enjoying the hobby more. I would advise not to be consumed with trying to get everything you want in the shortest time possible. Many will tell you that collecting really is more about the journey than reaching the destination.

(Along these same lines, if you decide you'd rather collect graded cards, do it. And vice versa if ungraded cards appeal to you more. Or maybe a mix of both. You'll no doubt hear from collectors who say that the "right" way to collect is by avoiding graded cards. Don't believe it. Again, do what you want.)