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identify7I believe that Burdick didn't care about any of those things. His objective was to acquire one of each card made, independent of subject.
I can only imagine what that opportunity must have been like. But as pointed out above, by having the viewpoint of the totality of card collecting, enjoyment of many of the details associated with each card are exchanged for the broader based appreciation perspective.
For me, I enjoy the history of baseball. Cards are used to select highlights of this history which I wish to portray. I do the same with non-sports cards relating to US history. And US coins relating to our technological advancements and material values.
Novice historian first, aspiring beginning collector second.