Variations in Sets
 

I have always found it curious how some sets variations command so much more attention than other sets. Since prchasing Sterling Sports Auctions I have came across many variations in sets that I never knew extisted. The latest is the 1939 Play Ball set in which it appears to have two different type sets for the name on the back. I can not find that there is any difference in price for either variation or even any other notation of such a variation.

That being said these variations can command nice premiums on some sets. Is it that not all sets have people that collect "Master Sets" of the set where there appears no premium?

Wondering what others thoughts were on the subject.

Lee Behrens
Sterling Sports Auctions

Those variations that command a premium change quite often. Just look at the T206 set. A couple years ago you could get a huge premium on just about any small print error. Now not so much.

Also on the 1939 Play Ball cards; the back variations also have corresponding differences in the front borders. One has wider borders on the front than the other (smaller image area as a result).

I agree with you in that I've never seen any indication that one variation is more difficult or more valuable than the other.

Steve

Could be a couple of things:
1) People don't know about the variations.
2) The variations are considered printing defects and therefore don't interest many collectors.
3) The variations are not cataloged.
4) PSA doesn't recognize the variations for their Set Registry collectors.
5) There is approximately even distribution of the two types.
6) The variations are only seen on commons.

All of these are possible reasons a set shows no price differentiation between variations and the regular card of a set (not just the one you mentioned). It normally takes publicity before people know there is additional demand for the misprints.

1948 Leafs
 

I feel that the uniform detail found on some Wyrostek and Adams cards, as well as, the all-yellow Priddy are just as significant as the PSA recognized variations of Aberson short sleeves, misspelled Hermanski and red cap Peterson.

1939 Play Ball checklist with variation
 

The checklist in the link below lists the print variations (shown as 'VAR') for the 1939 Play Ball set. I don't think I have ever noticed a price difference between the two types...my guess is not enough people give a darn, as the 1939 Play Balls are not as heavily collected.

http://www.tradingcarddb.com/ViewAll...1939-Play-Ball

Brian

1939 Play Ball
 

Same with the Sample Backs. I used to have several dozen and read in several places that they had a small multiplier, but there was no premium to be had when I sold them- even on the DiMag and Ted.

I think that's a pretty good assessment. Those that are truly rare and significant will meet with high demand eventually.

Regards,

Larry

Minor variations are only interesting to crazy collectors. :) Oh the stories.....had to have one of each as a type collector.