[steve B]

Originally Posted by nolemmings

This bears repeating. It goes to the core of your collecting personality, IMO. How important is it that you have every variation, even if the differences are almost imperceptible or would be meaningless to 99% of even collectors, much less the man on the street? Example, 1961 Topps with some green bleed into the baseball surrounding the card number on back-- a relatively recent discovery or acknowledged variation on some cards. Or a newly discovered stray line, or missing copyright symbol, or an obscured number under the stat line.

I've been fascinated by the approach taken by collectors when these new "discoveries" are made. Do you put most or all of your collecting energy into acquiring the new variation? Do you feel incomplete, in the collecting sense, without it? Do you look at your set as somehow less worthwhile as these new "holes" are brought your attention? Do you worry at all that as soon as you acquire the latest variation someone will point out a new one? For some, maybe the thrill of the chase actually makes them hope there is still something out there for them to sleuth and conquer. Others may become frustrated that their efforts in acquiring what they thought was everything in a "set" are now less fulfilling or satisfying.

I guess I have no answers for you, other than to suggest, as many others have, to collect what you want and take satisfaction where you find it. I collect mostly m101s-- I chase them to the point of mania. I will never complete the set. The card I will always need is frequently available--a Babe Ruth rookie. It ain't never comin' my way. I accept that and it takes nothing away from my enjoyment. So too I'm sure for T206 collectors who will never own the Wagner. C'est la vie. Best of luck whichever way you choose to build your collection.

I keep even more obscure varieties than that. But rarely pursue them actively. If I buy a box of random cards and they're in there I keep them. If not, I'm ok with not having them. At least now at one time I really did want everything.