Posted By:
steve fHi James/Jim,
Coincidence, I am also a young collector (47... or 48). Lately I would try to buy raw and graded vintage (pre 1970) lots on ebaY, keep a fraction (HOFs and hi quality stars) then sell off the remainder. It's more work, but I have fun with it.
This method "generally" lowered the overall costs if purchased seperately. After a while, so I tell the missus, I have broken even and still have a decent collection to leave my heirs. You may need to plead tactfully with yours that you need money to make money/investment.
Do your research before bidding online. There are more than a few counterfeiters.
I'm sure you've initiated a college fund prior to buying card. Good luck