Posted By:
Adam J. BaxterI moved to Cape Cod in 2000 and since then I've made one so-called find: A pair of Extremely poor condition (1/4 to 1/2 eaten by rodents) common player M101-2's for $80.00 with NO negotiating. The biggest problem with Antique shops is overpricing. When a card does come up for sale, let's say a t206 common in Fair to Good condition, the price is usually ridiculous--think $75.00 to $100 or more. Over the last few years I've scoured most of the shops in my area and come up empty handed. In the past I came across the occasional pre-war baseball magazine, postcard, or equipment, but lately even those are getting scarce. It probably doesn't help that 1 in every 5 people living down here are antique dealers 
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Patrick's right in that you have a better chance of making a find in VT, NH and ME then in MA and Southern NE. Central and Northern MA are also possibilities as well. Your best bet would be the Large Flea Markets (There used to be a couple of good ones in Hubbardston and Taunton, MA, But I'm not sure if they are still around), Estate Sales, and Yard Sales. Large Flea Markets situated near or in rural areas seem to be pretty good for old stuff.
**I know it sounds evil, but basically your looking for a seller or dealer who doesn't know or doesn't care about what they have.** What also improves your chances is not just material availability, but an experienced eye. Knowing what to look for will give you an edge over casual buyers and even many antique dealers.
With the exception of coming across an Estate sale that has vintage material (which is pretty unlikely), the most likely place in my opinion for future finds in the Northeast will be scrapbooks and photos. I always look through scrapbooks and especially Cabinet/tintype photo lots when I'm out hunting, as many people aren't familar with 19th century uniforms. Big finds are rare as hen's teeth, but I believe that small finds are still possible. Time and patience are the keys to scoring some good stuff.