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Posted By: Richard

Hey Ray,

There seems to consensus on the board that the following is a standard list of "recommended reading" for vintage collectors to start with. I may miss a few titles, but these will at least keep you busy while you find a first set to collect:

1. Lew Lipset's 'The Encyclopedia of Baseball Cards' (originally issued as three volumes, but reproductions can be bought that combine all three into a single book for $20 or so)

2. Bob Lemke's 'Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards'

3. A subscription to 'Old Cardboard' magazine (http://www.oldcardboard.com)

As for first sets to collect, there are many, but you may consider T201 Mecca Folders. There are 50 cards in the set, representing a good mix of players. They are also reasonably easy to track down. They used to be quite affordable, but I haven't watched them in a while, so I don't know if that part holds true.

Good luck!

Richard.