Posted By:
Doug AllenFirst of all thanks for posting the article...it is great.
When it came to auctioning his collection I knew I wanted to purchased one set as a keepsake and constant reminder of this special man and his special collection.
When I had the opportunity to work with Lionel (and Irma) to sell his collection I asked him what his favorite issue was. There was no hesitation...Delong Gum cards. He indicated they were the first set he ever collected and shared an article that mentioned that he was the first to complete the set. That is why we led the auction off with his Delong Gum card set and noted in the title "Lionel's first set"
It was a mid grade VG to VG/EX set but I half expected collectors to pick up on this story and bid it to a ridiculous level.
Fortunately for me they didn't and I was able to purchase it as my own personal keepsake. Lionel was pleased that I ended up with it. I just told him that I was glad he didn't keep it in the same condition as his 38 Goudey "Heads-Up" set or I wouldn't have a chance.
Now I have three things in my collection I will never sell the first card I ever purchased from Dick Ferrel in Ottawa Illinois - T206 Frank Chance Portrait, The Johnny Evers Managers Jersey my wife and kids got me for my 40th birthday and Lionel Carter's 33 Delong gum card set.
The rest as my daughters say is the wedding and college fund...I say it is the back-up plan!
Thanks for listening.
Doug