Collector or Investor (or both) - Which are you?

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Posted By: davidcycleback

What can be said about a quality T206 Ty Cobb or Walter Johnson bought at a good price with discretionary funds, is that it is a relatively stable product. I'm unable to predict what if any return it will bring over five or ten years, but the card is nothing like a Crispy Creme stock. Even if the price drops, the Cobb or Johnson will retain financial value for years to come. So, while it wouldn't be my investment of choice, I don't object to a collector putting some hard earned dollars into a nice Ty Cobb or two.

My practical investment advice is that it's not just what you buy, it's what you pay. A trading card or diamond ring or painting can double in book value, but it's still a lousy investment if you bought the damn thing at retail.