K-Nole,
Not sure, but I think sometimes the availability of both 51s can depend on what area of the country you live in. I am a vintage collector in Ohio (which has a motherload shows) and I go to at least a dozen vintage shows a year. Size of at least 60 tables or more. Like Strongsville, Cinci Moeller, Columbus Veterans, Dayton Nutter Center, etc. I have typically found that hardly any dealers can find or carry 51s for their tables. Obviously one could speculate "why" in this region they are so rare, but I would go on a limb and say it has nothing to do with "choice." Dealers spend their time doing what ever they can to get their hands on early 50s issues, as they obviously hold their value.
As for the blues? Well, tell me where in Ohio to find them. Evilbay, ya ya ya. They still hardly exist. Short of dandee, red heart, etc., 51 blues are the hardest "50s set" to complete in regards to price/availability ratio.
A very fun set. If you see any blueback for under $10, buy it no matter what. Lol, then come see me in Ohio if you wanna double your money for the dupes! Great thread, thanks for reading
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