My Boston Store Collins McCarthy Dilemma

[JamesGallo]

Originally Posted by Rhotchkiss

I agree with Howard. I would full the BS holes with CMs (or Standard Biscuit, not that its easier). At least that way you can complete the 1917 set on front and stay open to getting the balance in BS.

BTW, I own this. Its one of my favorite cards. It cost me an arm and a leg, but I could be convinced to sell it for two arms, one leg, and a head!

Truly an amazing card there and probably not one i could chase which adds to the problem as anyone thar has this card loves this cards and you have an amazing example.

I have a few blank backs and a Holsum as well just prefer to have a matching set which doesnt seem possible now or anytime in the future 😔

James G

[FrankWakefield]

The strategy of completing the fronts, and then swapping in Boston Store cards sounds sensible.

A factor would be where you are in the collecting chronology; will you be collecting in 15 years? Are you getting close to gradually selling??

Stay the course... where did we hear that? If you sell off the Boston Store cards as a bunch, within a few months you'll see a Ruth sell at auction for what you consider a good price for you. And you'll regret selling those cards.

'tis a dilemma, wish you well with it.

[JimC]

We don't need more Standard Biscuit collectors. We need fewer. In fact, you should sell me that Sam Rice. Does James even know about the Standard Biscuit curse?

James, I agree with Val. You should add Weil Baking.

In all seriousness, I can't imagine only needing a handful of BS cards to complete the set. I think you would regret parting with those. I'm sure it's an incredible collection to see. Keep going. Here are a couple from my small collection.

[nolemmings]

James,

I agree with the idea of completing the fronts regardless of back, and then sub in the Boston Stores as they become available. Actually, this is the way I approach my m101 sets-- Ideally I want a complete set of 200 with all of the various ad backs represented, including any variations. Of course I face the same obstacle as you-- Babe Ruth-- who is likely even more expensive although at least available. It is almost a certainty that I too will never complete the set, but I'm not inclined to give up either. Hang in there!

I am a little different than you in that I hoard the cards with various backs-- I have a half dozen or so of several players. So if you're thinking about collecting both Boston Store and the CM sets, watch out that you don't get too caught up in that fool's errand like me.

I once started the Boston Store set around the turn of the century, but gave up and sold the 15-20 or so I had, leaving just this lone example-- the very first one I bought (raw):