1975 Collectors Checklists of Cards........Dick Reuss

[whiteymet]

Originally Posted by brian1961

Thanks for posting this hobby relic, Leon. It sure was interesting.

As to whether anyone would participate in such a compilation today, NO.

However, methinks Mr. Reuss was prevented from posting a complete roster because it seems a decent bunch of collectors back then either refused to participate, or were unaware of the opportunity to divulge their holdings. Names such as Buck Barker, Ron Greenwood, Irv Lerner, and Doak Ewing are not present. Still, how refreshing that a bunch of major collectors chose to participate.

Fear of potential robbery must factor in, then and now. One of those responding was Eric Lange, whose collection was indeed stolen. However, the crooks tried to flip them to Mr. Dick Reuss himself, who recognized the collection as being Eric's. He played along with them, while also phoning the police. Happily, the culprits were apprehended, and Eric's collection was restored to him.

Dick Reuss's reputation in the hobby was already marked by honesty, a willingness to share information about cards, excellence in hobby writing, and a willingness to be a board member of the Detroit show. He made things happen in the hobby. His column was entitled "Rolling With Reuss", which fit him to a T. While helping a friend move, the man gave Dick a bunch of his childhood card collection. Amongst the cards was the rare 1949 Leaf Bob Feller, which turned out to be the first known Feller to our young hobby. Naturally, Dick wrote of the discovery, rather than keep it to himself.

Anyway, to the point, after instrumentally helping Eric Lange get his sizable collection returned to him, Dick Reuss was much, much admired, praised, and lauded throughout the hobby.

His tragic death to disease in about 1986-87 was very depressing. Long live his name and stature in our hobby.

Again, thank you Leon for sharing this most interesting hobby document.

Salute. ---Brian Powell

Hi Brian:

FYI, Irv Lerner is cited. See R318.

You are correct about the others. Ron Greenwood especially was in our "group" back then. Don't know why he did not make it onto the list.

Fred