Spent eight hours at the National on Thursday. Like most Nationals, it was hit and miss on the collecting front.
First, I went in trying to add to my '69 Cubs collection. I was looking for a picture pack, Milton Bradley team set, gloves of Kenny Holtzman, Jim Hickman and Jim Colborn, a variety of player pins, and autographs, especially balls of deceased '69 team members.
When it was all over, I didn't find any of the items I was looking for.
But, all was not lost.
I did buy a mint condition, Ernie Banks first baseman's mitt, Wilson model #2880 in its original box. This is the first one I have ever seen. The dealer was asking $350, but I got him down to $275 before pulling the trigger. I doubt there are many out there like it.
I also purchased a Cubs team photo pennant from 1971 with some staining (although the pic is in very good condition) for $50 and four late 60's buttons/pins for $20. All of the buttons related to the '69 team. A 2010 yearbook and a pair of Cubs programs at one table. Finally, I picked up a pair of 1978 cloth patches of Bobby Murcer and Bruce Sutter. I still need Rick Reuschel and any other Cubs.
There was the usual display of future auction items, including the Andre Dawson collection of his MVP award, Babe Ruth crown from '87, and other items. Of course, there were plenty of high end items on auction display as well as for sale.
Didn't see Mike Mosier of Columbia City Collectibles, who always carries some of the best oddball stuff around, albeit a bit pricey. I usually buy some stuff at his table.
I made it through all of the tables this year, and even had a chance to go back to a few.
Very much doubt I'll go to Atlantic City next year. Maybe Cleveland in 2017, and definitely back to Chicago in 2018.
Next up is the November Sun Times Show. More local than the National, so I might have some luck. Hoping to set up at a local show early in November. Always have plenty of Cubs stuff to trade if anyone is interested.
First, I went in trying to add to my '69 Cubs collection. I was looking for a picture pack, Milton Bradley team set, gloves of Kenny Holtzman, Jim Hickman and Jim Colborn, a variety of player pins, and autographs, especially balls of deceased '69 team members.
When it was all over, I didn't find any of the items I was looking for.
But, all was not lost.
I did buy a mint condition, Ernie Banks first baseman's mitt, Wilson model #2880 in its original box. This is the first one I have ever seen. The dealer was asking $350, but I got him down to $275 before pulling the trigger. I doubt there are many out there like it.
I also purchased a Cubs team photo pennant from 1971 with some staining (although the pic is in very good condition) for $50 and four late 60's buttons/pins for $20. All of the buttons related to the '69 team. A 2010 yearbook and a pair of Cubs programs at one table. Finally, I picked up a pair of 1978 cloth patches of Bobby Murcer and Bruce Sutter. I still need Rick Reuschel and any other Cubs.
There was the usual display of future auction items, including the Andre Dawson collection of his MVP award, Babe Ruth crown from '87, and other items. Of course, there were plenty of high end items on auction display as well as for sale.
Didn't see Mike Mosier of Columbia City Collectibles, who always carries some of the best oddball stuff around, albeit a bit pricey. I usually buy some stuff at his table.
I made it through all of the tables this year, and even had a chance to go back to a few.
Very much doubt I'll go to Atlantic City next year. Maybe Cleveland in 2017, and definitely back to Chicago in 2018.
Next up is the November Sun Times Show. More local than the National, so I might have some luck. Hoping to set up at a local show early in November. Always have plenty of Cubs stuff to trade if anyone is interested.