Posted By:
Mark AndersonI actually limit my hobby budget quite a bit, and here are a couple tips:
* Accept off-grade cards. I collect Gehrig and Ruth, neither of whom is cheap. However, if you are fine with cards that present well, but have a pencil mark on the back, a glue spot from being in a scrapbook, etc., there are tons of bargains out there.
* Branch out from cards. Again, with Ruth and Gehrig, I am able to find wire photos, vintage magazine covers, books, Sporting News guides, and other related memorabilia with these guys on the cover, for $20 to under $100.
* Look for unpopular sets. What is unpopular and underpriced now may well be the bargain of the future. For example, one of my favorite sets is 1936 S&S. Look hard enough, and you might find this complete set, loaded with Hall of Famers, for $250-$500. W strip cards are another example of great values, as I see some HOFers sell for less than $20.
Mark