Returning collector and new member -- Where to buy reasonable vintage??

[rsdill2]

It can seem counterintuitive, but to be honest, a way to get good deals is to spend more money. Buy lots. Sell what you don't want to keep.

Most folks buying vintage cards are buying one or two at a time. The complete sets, or other large lots, don't have as many buyers. The whole is worth less than the sum of its parts. Buy a complete 60s or early 70s set, keep a few stars, sell the rest, and you'll probably make a little money too.

[jchcollins]

There are still decent deals to be had on midgrade vintage, even graded, on ebay - some good sellers have already been recommended. Yes, we are in a bubble right now and prices are higher, but I would agree with what Dean said above that the few regrets I have are as to things I didn't buy. Since you left the hobby, "investment grade" (I'd say PSA 7 and higher on vintage) has really taken off and there are individual cards there worth exponentially more in higher grades than say, a PSA 5 - but that as a trend is nothing new. Most of us here can still afford a decent / pleasing collection even on a budget. It will just take some time getting back into it learning how things work now. Good luck!

[ASF123]

Thanks everyone! I’ve sprung for some nice-looking raw cards from sellers with good feedback - Carlton rookie, 65 and 67 Mays, 64 Mays/Aaron, 56 Koufax...hopefully they look as good in hand when I receive them. Also a couple of PSA 3/3.5 tobacco cards. I think I need to rein in the spending a bit after this initial burst of enthusiasm though .