So what's safe to buy?

[Mark17]

Obviously, the lower the grade on a common card, the safer it is. I am partial to T205 for their color, highly identifiable and lifelike portraits and usually good registration, and T202 because I like that action photograph, plus you also get, basically, a T205 on each end. I also like the detailed, interesting biographies on the backs of these two issues.

Commons in nice shape can be found in the $20 to $50 range, so little risk.

[LincolnVT]

Rare, low pop Ruth, Cobb, Wagner and Jackson.

[Throttlesteer]

Originally Posted by LincolnVT

Rare, low pop Ruth, Cobb, Wagner and Jackson.

And if you're not swimming in cash, you're better off with oddball releases that don't command huge $$$. T206, 33 Goudeys, 52 Topps, and other big named HOFers are all big targets. Nothing is 100% safe, but you're better off with less popular issues. Shiny stuff seems to be open season. Holy hell, there are a lot of bad Mike Trouts out there.