Dealers' Pricing at the National

[hcv123]

I am really bothered by some of the gross generalizations that have been made in this thread. While in my experience - I understand there are some dealers that do business in a way that perpetuates some of the perceptions expressed in this thread- there are quite a few fair and reasonable dealers that conduct business with integrity.

Do auction houses get thrown under the bus for taking anywhere between 15 and 30+% of a consignment - even for the 90+% of items that DON'T sell for the "RECORD PRICES" they like to advertise? But dealers are called "lowballers" for offering the same 70-85% of fair market?

If you owned a premium example or rare card, would you be willing to sell it to anyone under market or would you be trying to get top dollar for it? Why is the expectation of a dealer any different?

Dealers have been part (Collectors being the other) of the backbone of this hobby for years.

I am told by others I have a reputation for fair pricing - I'm not giving stuff away, but I'm also not 2X last recent sale of a comparable card.

You want "deals" come to my booth (1034) and let's talk about the stuff that is readily available - I think you will be quite happy with the "deal". I have dealers regularly coming over and purchasing from me, so they must think I have "good deals"!

You want to buy the 2nd highest graded of 4 known examples of a complete 1968 Roberto Clemente bazooka box (or similar items - a number of which I will be offering)? Sorry, not going to be much "dealing" on that one. That said, you will likely be extremely excited at the opportunity to acquire such a rare item - even if you had to pay up for it!

You want to stop by and just talk baseball cards - come on by - I love sharing my passion for the hobby with others!

I will also be buying. trading and accepting select private consignments (NOT an auction - more price control and commissions as low as 7.5%) at the show. Contacting me in advance to set up an appointment or begin a discussion of what you have is recommended, if last year was any indication, I expect it to be an insanely busy show.

Howard Chasser
A Few of My Favorite Things