Quality vs. Quantity

[jcmtiger]

I did the same thing, I had way to many cards. I probably still have too many, but managable now.

Joe

[hank_jp]

Tim - As I am in the process of selling my graded T206 set [hopefully to be replaced with a raw set], I am keeping those rare cards and unusual print errors that are so tough to find and that give me pleasure to own.
I know that most cards, even some of the toughies, are replaceable. However, I am satisfied with those cards I have decided to retain and with the pursuit of other rarities that I would love to own. I also enjoy focusing on putting together a decent condition back set so as to not feel totally disconected from The Monster.

Hank

[philliesphan]

I've significantly reduced the quantity of cards in my collection. Although I do have some examples that are high-grade, I more appreciate rarity and special pieces [in mid grade] than having tons and tons of cards.

I never appreciated the sheer quantity of cards I had -- and with a fewer number of pieces, each of them are special to me.

It is a good move, especially if you diversify enough that you don't end up setting record setting prices for whatever quality pieces you decide to acquire.

[hennessey16]

Personally I'm not to that point yet. Started collecting 3 yrs ago with a goal of all the cards listed in the SMR magazine (T206's). Have aprox. 85 cards with about dozen or so to go. Me I'm a hoarder and don't like to sell. So my vote would be continue your quest and leave them for your kids

[AndrewJerome]

I have trouble making up my mind on this issue.

Sometimes I think about selling 95% of my collection to get a few really nice cards. . . but I have never been able to do it. . . I am now mostly a PCL/Zeenut collector, and I enjoy looking at some of my lower value Zeenuts just as much as other (much more valuable) cards.

In the end, collect what makes you happy, even if that seems to change once a week!


Andrew

[benjulmag]

My motto

"Lean and mean"

[jbbama]

This is a tricky and complicated question. It is also very subjective, and there is no right or wrong answer. I have done this, i did it to raise funds for a single card, by selling many others, and have found that I was just as happy as before. Like many, my collecting habits and goals may change again soon (probably will). It is really all about ones personal preference.

[JamesGallo]

I tend to like the look and variety of cards too much to trim it down. I also really like a few sets that I am chasing so I don't think I will ever have a small collection unless somone wants to trade me a wagner for it :-)

James G

[wolterse]

I recently was faced with the same question and decided to pursue quality...and haven't looked back. My collection was about 100+ strong (mostly raw, some graded), but have since consolidated into a collection of about 30 graded cards of much higher quality. I kept about 10 of the original cards (and even sent some away to get graded with mixed results) that I considered my 'cornerstones.' I got rid of the rest on B/S/T and eBay. Used those funds to purchase higher value cards that I am much more proud of.

QUALITY OVER QUANTITY ANY DAY

[T206Collector]

I sold off about 500 T206 cards, all graded by SGC, and got down to about 50 total, if you include my 32 autographed T206 cards. Before I started slowly compiling unsigned and low grade raw T206 cards, I was down to 22 graded cards. I used most of the funds to purchase Lionel Carter's Eddie Plank and a Magie error, as well as two dozen or so signed T206 cards. Occasionally I miss one of my Chase cards or a Lajoie. But those are so easy to get back any time I really want them. Once I started the sell off, it became surprisingly easy and comfortable to do.

Good luck!

[Exhibitman]

Hardly a helpful short answer, I realize. I toyed with that idea but found it completely impossible to randomly choose a number and limit myself to that number of cards. Instead, I assess things more or less card by card and set by set. On some cards, I determine that I really don't care much for them, so I perhaps keep one example and get rid of the rest. I kept only 1 N28, the John L. Sullivan, which I really like, and got rid of the rest of my N28/N29/N43s. Some cards I find I like so much that I go after the whole set. I feel that way about Exhibit Salutations and 1971 Topps. Others are in between: I like a few cards or want a few cards but have zero interest in amassing a set. I have no interest in The Monster or in any of the Zeenuts sets, for example, but I have actively collected the HOFers and popular players for years.

[sesop]

in theory, i go with quality (not necessarily high-grade. i'll take low grade scarcity over high grade common anyday). in practice, i like winning auctions and getting packages in the mail too much, so i find myself with one foot in quality and one in quantity

[makersmarkambassador]

That's a tough decision. Glad I don't have to make it...

If I were to make it, I would go the quality route.

[Mark]

This thread suggests that there is a movement if not a flight to quality among many collectors. What do you suppose has brought this on? I ask this as someone who is firmly rooted in quantity.