How do you guys find all the GOOD STUFF?

[mjkm90]

Like Scott I do all the following, but I will qualify my view by saying I have tried to help/give to others quite a bit and that has really helped my network become more productive from an acquisition perspective. If I know a piece in my collection means more to someone else than to me when they inquire, I tend to give it up often via trade or $$$. I really keep an eye out for items my hobby pals might want. I also step aside on items if I feel they appreciate the piece more.

I also search the web general antique sites quite often.

1) Networking with many other like-minded collectors
It helps to have a large network of close collector friends because you "cast a larger net" in the hobby. You can't possibly see every auction and be all-knowing without other friends in the hobby looking out for you. Many of these friendships were forged long before the internet. Without my network of hobby friends, I wouldn't find half of the stuff that I do. Seriously!

2) eBay favorite searches

3) Large auctions

4) SCD (Yes, I actually still subscribe to it and it sometimes pays a dividend. Old habits die hard, even if I may be the last remaining subscriber)

4) Smaller auctions (Infrequently)

I hope this helps.[/QUOTE]