Thoughts on 1950s cards over the next 15 years?

[RobertGT]

You are lucky in that - based on your scans - this collection appears to have survived in fairly clean condition overall. That means grading will have to be in play if your goal is to maximize the value. With a collection of 800 or fewer cards, it shouldn't take too much time or require to much effort to break this down and piece it out if you desire. Here's how I would proceed:

A) Pull any star or Hall of Famer with a "book value" of over $100 and examine closely with intent to send to PSA (my preference, though some may disagree). This includes players such Mantle, Banks RC, Mays, Clemente, Aaron, Drysdale RC, Berra and more. Your goal for these is a 5 or better, as they will still bring decent money in that grade. Exclude anything with a crease, really bad centering or major defect -- sell those raw. If you get a 7s, 8s, or even one 9 you are golden.

B) Look for ultra-sharp/high-grade commons and low-pops to send in to PSA. Be careful with these, because if you send in commons and they come back 5s you likely will lose money on the grading fee. Your goal for these is a 7 or better. Look for very sharp corners, 60/40 centering or better and a clean surface. Commons in 8 or 9s from the years you have will bring nice money.

C) Sell the graded vintage you get back on eBay, either though straight auctions or Buy It Nows.

D) Piece out low-grade stars (single cards) and bulk common lots (no more than 50 cards per lot) in raw form at a local auction house that has a sports auction and a following of collectors. (or at least has sports knowledge). A good example of this is Hunt Auctions of Exton, PA. Alternatively, you can sell the raw stars and common lots on eBay yourself. They will bring about the same amount as a well-known auction house.

E) Do not consider selling the entire 800-count collection as one unit, especially as raw. You will be leaving money on the table.

Good luck.
Rob