Thanks to those in this post that mentioned my name. What to collect? The advice I was given early on was, #1 Find out who is reputable (Other collectors and dealers alike) and who to avoid. It's a smaller hobby than you think and asking around as you're doing is an invaluable tool. It can take decades for a seller to gain a solid reputation and the ones that don't usually are not around too long. #2) When buying buy the best specimen of a particular player that you can afford. What is "best" depends on your taste. #3) learn everything you can know about the subjects you are collecting, (that is where the fun is). Personally, when I collected, I was a completist collector and aspired to acquire any player that had a major league debut 1876-1970. Granted this was a long time ago and autographs were not as pricy as they are today & was a feat that could never be accomplished even then. If I collected today, I would probably collect specific famous teams. What medium I collected varied as I was only looking for one and was constantly upgrading and selling my "dups" that is how I became a dealer. My personal favorites were Player contracts, documents, Letters, Burke photos Checks and GPC's. For example, if I had a Babe Ruth check and happened across a letter to me that was an "upgrade" and I'd keep the letter and sell or trade the check. The more time you spend with the hobby your tastes and preferences could change too until you find your "Nitch". Best wishes in your collecting pursuits.
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Always BUYING Vintage autographs
jim@stinsonsports.com