I grew up in California during the 60s. I started collecting in 1967. I was able to complete the set up through the 6th series, but the 7th series never showed up in stores. We had more 6th series cards than any other series. In 1968 I was able to complete the set with out a problem. Same for the 1969 set. I remember buying 6th and 7th series cards in early to mid August when we were on vacation in Illinois. In 1970, I remember 4th series cards being available in August. 7th series cards didn't show up until we were back in school in September.
I feel that Topps was able to get their cards out earlier in the year in 68 and 69, resulting in greater sales while kids were out of school and chasing baseball cards. In other years, cards coming out later in the year, when kids were back in school, resulted in lower sales for 7th series cards. Stores and wholesalers would be buying fewer boxes knowing that kids wouldn't be buying much once back in school.
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