HONESTY is always the best policy. For a week or two I had been getting unsolicited e-mails from an auction house out in Dallas, TX. I didn't open any of them, but did notice the headline notes one of which mentioned a check. Straight up I figured phishing scam and sent right to spam and trashed it.
Now I did recognize the auction house as I had registered to bid on some stuff, but never did. That was maybe 6 months ago. Monday's mail brought me an envelope from the auction house, and inside was a check for $498.90. The memo section on the check just said June. I knew that I hadn't sent them any cards to consign, so either they sent me another John Miller's check by mistake or something nefarious. I decided to call to get to the bottom of it. Yes, this was a legit check. My call went to voicemail so I left one. Not hearing back after a few hours and just before their closing time I called again. The owner answered. It was his and his wife's anniversary and they were out doing something. I explained the deal, and he was blown away for my honesty and integrity. We wound up talking for an hour.
Long story short, he might come to Florida to look at and buy my entire collection. Seriously, he was floored by what I said I would accept based on what I valued it at. He said his integrity wouldn't allow that and he'd have to pay more. I explained to him that big bulk buys like that in Florida, nah doesn't happen. I sent pics of the 3 Ohtani cards, he's a little excited. I promised to take some pics of the better vintage cards (he gave me his personal cell number) this week which I have done a bunch already, and will still do some more of the overall situation.
So yes....this could be good news or bad news depending on your perspective. Of course I will keep you posted as things progress.
As many cards as you have, I can't imagine what price you two discussed! Regardless, sounds like good news for you if things work out!
ReplyDeleteEntire collection, wow! Considering how long it's been taking you to catalog it, I can't imagine how much resources they would need to process it.
ReplyDelete4 years cataloging, and I haven't made a dent in what I own. So far I've input 589K cards (550K unique), and that's just what is basically inside on the book cases (for the most part- the keepers I've gotten too but not all of them). So much more yet to do, I'm tired.
ReplyDeleteI 100% agree with you on the honesty policy. It will always work out in the end. Sometimes I think I might need a new start on my collection. Then I remind myself that thinking can be dangerous. Let's continue to enjoy the hobby whatever way is best for each of us.
ReplyDeleteIs this a June April Fool's post? I can't picture you selling your whole collection, but I suppose there's a price for everything.
ReplyDeleteI've spent the last 2 days (maybe 6 hours total) just taking pictures of the Topps set builds 52-69. I'm now starting the 70's. Individual cards within the sets of course, the first batch had 240 pics, so far today about 100. This is just the first two shelves on the the first bookcase. I have 17 bookcases inside, then there are all of the boxes inside and in the garage. Not sure he'll be patient enough. My organization (albeit very thorough is not friendly for someone looking just for the higher end cards).
DeleteI hope it works out in your favor.
ReplyDeleteme too!
DeleteKeep the Braves!!
ReplyDeleteDoes this potential buy include all of the cards in the garage? the guy from TX will need an 18 wheeler for transport purposes. Bill K
ReplyDelete👍
ReplyDeleteI have enjoyed reading your blog for the last few years.
ReplyDeleteThe possibility of you selling your entire collection amazes me.
I understand “card fatigue” but this is a really surprising read. Not to be a killjoy, but I have a friend who did this several years ago and almost immediately regretted it. My unsolicited advice is to give this careful consideration.
So what was the deal with the check?
ReplyDeleteit was supposed to go to a different John Miller
Deletewonder how they messed that up
ReplyDeleteCould this be the end of Johnny's Trading Spot, or would you build a new collection (assuming you sell)?
ReplyDeleteThis is a huge process to say the least, and ultimately I'd like to keep my Braves and Wacky Packages/odd ball stuff (3 bookcases) and thus I would continue to blog. Either way, it is going to take a good while to get a deal done. I have stuff on 17 bookcases plus tons (literally) in boxes. I am thinking a deal with my LCS or one of my buddy/dealers would probably be a lot quicker and more feasible.
DeleteGreat story. You the did the right thing. Hope you do the right thing for yourself with your collection.
ReplyDeleteWow. This is pretty amazing. Glad you're thinking about keeping your Braves and Wacky Packages. I've never seen your collection, but based on your blog posts and the care packages you've sent over the years... I imagine it takes up a lot of space. Like your post's title... I'm sure freeing up this space will be both exciting and sad at the same time.
ReplyDeleteLOL! Definitely occupies a lot of space (apx 1800 sq ft- give or take). But space isn't the issue, The TCDB inputting has really burned me out..it is near impossible to get everything loaded in there. Time really isn't the issue either if you disregard the fact that I will never get it all catalogued in there. If in fact I do sell (might not happen in reality- although I wish it would) then I will have lots of time with nothing to do.
DeleteI could you.selling and then restarting with a new focus. Hard to break the habit. Good luck!
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