[sirraffles]

The different series may have different quantities produced...hence my descriptive "around twenty".

As for the quantity produced, it really has nothing to do with trying to set an artificial rarity, though rarity probably bodes well for future collectors. The small quantities make sense to me, and should to you. Simply put, the number that I produce equals how many I feel that I can sell comfortably. There's no point in making more than that; if I did so, I'd likely be hearing, "nice cards but they overproduce".

As a collector, to buy an expensive card simply based on rarity is something that I would hope to avoid. However, if we are honest then we must admit that many non-Helmar cards are purchased only because they are rare. I won't name any, but I'm sure we can all think of unattractive, even ugly, cards that are sought after and highly valued simply because they are "rare".

Lucky: if they are collected down the road because they are considered "beautiful art pieces," that is great. I don't know why you (and some others) stop short of calling them cards, but that is fine. I don't care what people decide to call them as long as they enjoy them. Caveat: I do dislike the "fantasy" term. Why would some cards be fantasy cards and others not? Is a 1948 Leaf Ruth a fantasy card, as he had retired years before? How about 1961 Fleer Greats? But it is not that big of a deal, though some seem to use the term derisively.

Larry, I like your entire thoughtful comment. You ask in bold type whether Helmar cards successfully "takes you back to the time." This is, of course, my intention and why people continue to collect the Helmar cards. To take fans back in time is the main reason that I decided, on a whim, to only offer distressed cards. That and it was a poke in the eye to (what I saw as) the crazed over-emphasis on grading and enslaving cards within plastic tombs. Just personally speaking, any card (including Helmar) that I can hold and feels "right" takes me back in time more successfully than a card that is slabbed. On Helmar cards, the player image is important, of course, but the paper finish, the weight, even the aroma (yes, I finally admit it! On a couple series I use a fragrance that I mix) all work together to make the full package.

I should add here that I understand the need for grading services and, in some cases, plastic slabs. It is just wildly over-emphasized, in my opinion, and has detracted from the enjoyment of collecting. It also discourages potential collectors from starting, I think.

I want to bring back collecting to what I enjoyed in the 1970's and the Helmar approach is my answer. I don't expect, and never expected, everyone to "get it". For those that do, enjoy the ride!

Best, Charles Mandel