I started collecting with my older brother in 1977. Our next-door neighbor also happened to be the biggest promoter in the state and had his own shop which helped feed our passion. Around 1980 (ages 6 me/9 him) we merged our collections to get the most bang for our buck. We continued to collect together (mostly HOF RC's and Topps sets) even though our resources were vastly different, and I had a few separate ventures going (an insane player collection and huge 68/84 Tigers autographed hoard). He passed in 2013 and while I still collect my passion is nowhere what it once was, and I have started to sell off quite a bit. The insane price increases this last year or so (some of which I felt were way overdue) have made it easier especially with stuff I literally had stashed away in $1 boxes now selling for $1K+++ (see Kobe rookies). Not being able to call him up while I am at a swap meet or flea market and ask him what his thoughts are on something sucks...and while the memories are awesome...it's just not the same.
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