Best way to sell a Complete Roberto Clemente run

[kev2xx]

Hi, i have a complete run of Topps cards for Roberto Clemente and i was looking at getting ideas as to the best ideas on how to go about flipping them? as a complete run or peace meal?

The run consists of the following:

1. 1955 Topps Rookie PSA 4
2. 1956 - 1966, inclusive of the 1963 fleer all at PSA 6
3. 1967 - 1973 all at PSA 7

The above have no qualifiers attached so i would say its firmly mid grade to sort of higher grade for his last few cards.

Looking to get into an entry level Willie Mays Bowman rookie or a PSA 3 Hank Aaron rookie with the funds as it seems my sons new found love of vintage cards has him collecting those two plus Jackie Robinson so no need to hold onto the run if it wont be as appreciated by him when he's ready to take over my collection.

Will happily share pictures if requested, thanks in advance for any and all ideas, recommendations on where to go, dealers to contact etc..

[Brent G.]

I think trying to sell as one lot prices out the majority of people. Since it's not a ton of cards, best bet might be to post them here individually, in one post with photos -- that way you aren't paying eBay. There are some largely Clemente-only collectors on here and others looking to pick up a nice copy.

OR ... just sell the kids on how cool Roberto is and keep 'em ...

[jayshum]

Originally Posted by kev2xx

Hi, i have a complete run of Topps cards for Roberto Clemente and i was looking at getting ideas as to the best ideas on how to go about flipping them? as a complete run or peace meal?

The run consists of the following:

1. 1955 Topps Rookie PSA 4
2. 1956 - 1966, inclusive of the 1963 fleer all at PSA 6
3. 1967 - 1973 all at PSA 7

The above have no qualifiers attached so i would say its firmly mid grade to sort of higher grade for his last few cards.

Looking to get into an entry level Willie Mays Bowman rookie or a PSA 3 Hank Aaron rookie with the funds as it seems my sons new found love of vintage cards has him collecting those two plus Jackie Robinson so no need to hold onto the run if it wont be as appreciated by him when he's ready to take over my collection.

Will happily share pictures if requested, thanks in advance for any and all ideas, recommendations on where to go, dealers to contact etc..

I would contact Howard Chasser on this board - hcv123 - assuming he doesn't see your post and contact you first. He's a big Clemente collector so while he personally may not need the cards you have for his collection, he may know others that are interested.

[raulus]

If you're looking to maximize your sales price, then I agree with the notion to sell them individually.

I think if you try to sell them as a lot, about the only buyers are likely to be dealers, or other collectors who would be looking to break it up and sell them individually to make a quick buck on the spread.

The only upshot is that selling them as a lot could go a little faster, assuming you can find a buyer that is willing to buy at or near your asking price. Even so, with mainline Clemente pieces, I suspect that you'll find a pretty deep collector market that would be eager to buy your stuff, as long as you don't over-price them.

[kev2xx]

THank you every one for all of your replies.

Much appreciated, as my son is starting out with his collection branching out to retired hall of fame players, he really seems set on Mays, Aaron and Jackie, really wish he let me know that Clemente wasn't his cup of tea before completing this run but oh well live and learn i guess.

[tiger8mush]

Another angle to consider is that your son's collection focus could shift many times between now and when you decide to pass your collection down to him.

Would be a shame to sell/trade your collection for cards that you are less interested in, come to find out in 5-10 yrs your son now collects a different era or players or sport altogether.

This is your collection, collect what makes you happy. I'm sure when the time comes, your son will be happy to cherish his dad's Clemente collection knowing how much the cards meant to you.

Just a thought, good luck with your decision!

[Brent G.]

Originally Posted by tiger8mush

Another angle to consider is that your son's collection focus could shift many times between now and when you decide to pass your collection down to him.

Would be a shame to sell/trade your collection for cards that you are less interested in, come to find out in 5-10 yrs your son now collects a different era or players or sport altogether.

This is your collection, collect what makes you happy. I'm sure when the time comes, your son will be happy to cherish his dad's Clemente collection knowing how much the cards meant to you.

Just a thought, good luck with your decision!

Well said. As your son's scope expands, I think Roberto will be right at home there. I'd say at the very least, keep the RC.