and the aging of the collectors has also led to a reduction. It used to be quite different, and I think a lot of us hope to see an upturn again. If not, collect what you love and you won't care so much about the costs. For movie buffs, they never get any of their money back, or concert goers, or tropical fish owners, or people who frequent bars or love the theater and on and on. Think of it as a hobby and not as an investment and it may not bother you as much. I'm sure most of the people who sold you your chips (I can't be sure about all) did not think they were offering a bad deal when they sold you the chips. The market has changed. It may change again. In any case, keep it fun, as Steve P. always says.

Michael Siskin