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Posted By: Misunderestimated

Ramblings:

In the rarified world of hedge funds and the like the cards are pretty much "small beer" with a few notable exceptions mentioned above...

Also I think there is a potential problem on the supply side -- especially for the post WWII cards (even in the high grades).
While we talk as if the supply is somewhat fixed based on the pop reports etc. it really isn't. We just don't know what else is out there and whether there will be finds (like the Stengel etc) or even just a bunch old-time collector's divesting that will belie our assumptions about rarity.
On the other hand there is virtual certainty about how many Stratavari and other top notch violins/cellos etc. are out there.

Also, with the instruments they have to be used (they really do according to concert performers I have talked to) to be maintained and musicians want to use the best and can own/rent/lease them in ways that are tax-friendly. A perfect 1933 Ruth (or whatever) is best left alone -- entombed in plastic and then encarcerated in light and temperature controlled a safety deposit box where no harm can befall it.