[sbfinley]

Not that I want to derail the thread more than I already have, but I don't subscribe the "hobby is dying" sentiment. The modern market is thriving and and large percentage of that market is 18-35. Many of those collectors invariably step into vintage after a period of time. Additionally, the current market is drastically different from the market of the boom years. Yes the current products are heavily printed, but enough niche sub markets with limited commodities have opened that products should retain vastly more value than the 80-90's have. The Pujols chrome auto will be the litmus test of the Chrome era as he should be the first player with Chrome RC auto to enter Hall. If his value sustains it will bode well for everyone else down the line. Yeah, the hobby is not widespread as it was during the boom, and no kids aren't lining up for gum packs at the general store, but the hobby (much like baseball) is firmly entrenched in specific areas of American culture.