New to Pre-War collecting. Need advice.

[darkhorse9]

First and foremost..collect what you like. It's a lot easier to shell out bigger bucks for cards that truly get your heart racing than for a card that you simply want to get out of the way.

Since the sets are smaller I find it much easier to focus on one set at a time, finish it and then move on. That way you pay more attention to what you need/want/can afford

You might find it easier to focus on just one "theme" Collect the entire run of one manufacturer (Goudey, Play Ball etc.) or try and get one good set from each year (my personal fav.)

Bottom line..don't let price guides or grading services make decisions for you. Buy the cards you like, in the condition you like at a price you like. And then enjoy them