I'm in financial trouble-what would you do?

[GehrigFan]

On some of the more memorable cards, try to get a high quality image - you can blow it up to a color 8x10 and frame it for the memories. I know a guy who does this with his autographed magazines and such, so he can store the actual items of value safely, yet display an image in the office. Just a thought.

[T206Collector]

The cardboard may be for sale, but the memories will stay with you forever. They are not inseparable, and the memories are holding all of the true value.

[brian1961]

Dear Tomman 1961,

A man must do what he must. Close your eyes and contemplate what will happen if you sell, and if you do not sell. If you see disaster ahead, do not wait to sell. Plan it carefully. Yes, it will be very hard, and you will miss them. However, refer to my first sentence, a quote of Sir Winston Churchill.

As Jay Wolt and some others advised, make high quality scans; this is something that could not be done years ago. For some cards, high quality reprints abound that offer 90% of the eye candy, with no strings attached.

We love you, collecting bro. This is a tough situation. I know I miss my 52 Topps Mickey Mantle, but I had to raise money for a down payment on a house. My situation was not life-threatening though, and I certainly acknowledge that.

But most of all I just want to say I'm very, very sorry about what has happened to you. A brotherly hug to you from my wife and I. --Brian Powell

[ullmandds]

I echo the sentiment of the others...they're just cards...and in the grand scheme of things are inconsequential compared to health, family and livelihood.

The memories will live...and you can keep and enjoy the scans forever.

[Paul S]

I echo that as well. You can sell your cards but not your fond memories. In the last 1&1/2 years I sold stuff I've had since fifteen that I thought I would keep forever: It didn't hurt as much as I thought. Also, worrying about finances would not be good for your health.

[mrvster]

Tomman....I am very sad to see read this.....my heart goes out to all of you....

sell the best ones last....if you have to

[barrysloate]

I'm sorry to hear about your issues, especially regarding your health. I would not allow yourself to get sentimental about any of your baseball cards. It's just stuff, and stuff is replaceable. In better times we all have enjoyed collecting cards and other things. When life gets tough you have to prioritize, and take care of the more important things first. Maybe sometime down the road you will feel flush again and you can restart your collection. I know the cards you bought with your dad mean a lot to you, but I am sure he would tell you it's okay to sell them.

[Republicaninmass]

Sell the Clemente and Cobb, those will give you a good chunk of cash. Maybe things will turn around and you can get them in a more affordable grade down the line

[Leon]

Maybe you could hang onto a couple of the lower value cards that still have great sentimental value? That way you get the money and still have a few cards (albeit lower value but who cares) for the memories. We (me too) are all passionate about our cardboard but it's just that, cardboard. I have already sold some that meant a lot to me because of financial issues several years ago. Had I not sold them I would have had to sell my house and declare bankruptcy. I kept my favorite one from that focus and have 0 sellers remorse. In the not too distant future I will be selling some more to pay for my daughters college. And there are currently 5 guys outside my house working on it for some greatly needed cosmetic repairs. I sold my T206 back run recently (again minus a few I really like the most) to finance it. I use my cards for my benefit and am not shy about it. Life is too important to stress when there are ways around it. Good luck and I hope the best for you. We'll still be here for ya' and you are still a part of our community, cards or not.

[4815162342]

It breaks my heart to read this Tomman. As has been previously said, faith, family, and health come way before cards. I'll be praying that you find another (good paying) job quickly.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. -- 1 Peter 5:6-7