Posted By:
Gilbert MainesI really am not sure what you are asking. But if your inquiry is: does the vintage card segment of the hobby have persons who are anxious to rip you off, the answer is yes.
I am not sure what the non-vintage marketplace is like, but my view of the vintage marketplace is a community of buyers and sellers working together for a common goal. This goal is to enhance each others enjoyment of the hobby. Frequently buyers are partime sellers and sellers are often also collectors.
Some sellers require more of a markup for their time than others. Some sellers are fraudulent. The community polices vintage card activities and keeps each other aware of apparently dishonest activities thru vehicles including this board.
If one adheres to the tips for beginners offered at the top of the page, the liklihood of becoming a victim of unscrupulous opportunists is minimized. Once vintage experience is gained, a network of honest dealers will be established from your personal activities, supplemented by observations and conclusions offered here and at your other resources.
Or maybe I am off base here. If you meant something else, Im sorry, I missed it.