Printable Version of Topic

Click here to view this topic in its original format

Collector Zone _ Hobby Talk _ Things Overheard at the Shop......2012......

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 10 2012, 11:00 PM

Each year for the last 3 or 4 years I have started a thread in this very forum on this site outlining the often times ridiculous, insane, outlandish, and down right crazy things that customers have said at my shop. There have been some real doozies over the years. Many of these encounters have left me with a look of....... blink.gif Others have provided us all with hours of entertainment. There have been tall tales of safety deposit boxes filled to the brim with autographed Babe Ruth rookie cards and other rare treasures. There have been many silly questions that have proven that while the customer may always be right, they often times still have no idea what they are talking about. These stories are meant to give everyone a chuckle and even more, a look inside the things that dealers have to go through on a daily basis. For every good solid educated customer that knows sports and sports collectibles, there are 10 that have no idea if a football is pumped or stuffed but who are more than happy to talk to you about everything and anything. Mark Twain once said, "I prefer to remain silent and appear to be a fool, than to open my mouth and remove all doubt". I'll be honest, I don't know anything about how to fly an airplane, so you won't catch me having a conversation about my piloting skills. Still, some of these customers relish the opportunity to educate me about the world of sports collectibles. Luckily, I have learned a lot in my 25 years in the hobby, but I know I still have a lot to learn smile.gif If you are new to this site and haven't followed the saga, I linked the past threads below. Now its time to sit back and enjoy the latest installment of Things Overheard at the Shop.......2012 edition.

http://www.tradingcardcentral.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=203247&hl=overheard

http://www.tradingcardcentral.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=275176&hl=

http://www.tradingcardcentral.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=294874


Two weeks ago I relocated my shop to a new mall that was recently renovated and reopened after being empty for the past 7 or 8 years. This place is right on the very busy I-40 corridor between Nashville and Knoxville. The location could not be more perfect. Local traffic studies put thousands of cars per day passing by this area. I already love it. My previous location was out of the way and I had to work non-stop to establish myself and build up a client base. It's hard to believe but I made it work at that location for 10 years !!! I had been ready to make the move to a better spot for years now, it just had to be the right opportunity and the right situation. I got a U-Haul and a buddy to help me and we carefully loaded and unloaded my entire shop inventory all in one day. My new shop looks like a disaster zone behind the counter but the storefront is coming together nicely. The first two weekends at the new location have been awesome. I have already met more knowledgeable sports fans in two weeks there than I did in 10 years at the other place. The 2 locations are only about 11 miles apart but they are like different worlds. Nonetheless, I still have met some folks that will no doubt provide me with lots of material for this thread in the coming months. The first 2 memorable encounters from my first 2 weeks are outlined below. Read at your own risk. Once you start reading, there's no turning back wink.gif


My very first weekend at my new location came and went without much of the strange and unusual encounters that I had become accustomed to at my previous locale. Sunday evening just before closing time, a guy about my age came in walking with a cane. I greeted him and we exchanged hellos. He seemed like a fairly normal guy. Surely, he wouldn't ruin my perfect game? He wouldn't spoil my shutout this close to end of the business day? I had made it through my grand opening with only positive experiences. No crazy stories or tall tales or ridiculous questions. My high school English teacher had a saying, "If it seems to good to be true, hey baby, it ain't true!" I should have known my streak would come to an end sooner rather than later. The guy looked around and then it began....."Do you have any Michael Jordan cards?" he asked. "I sure do. What type cards are you looking for?" I questioned. "I have a card of his and I'm not sure what it is worth" he continued. "I have never seen another one like it" he affirmed. My mind began racing, oh boy, we are about to go off the tracks, I just know it. "It is the one where he is dunking the ball" he stated with a straight face. There it is folks! I knew it was coming! This guy has the card where Michael Jordan is pictured dunking the basketball. You know Jordan rarely did that, so this MUST be valuable! "I think it is from 1989" he continued. "I would just have to see it and then I could give you an idea of what it might be worth" I replied. "It is put up" he nodded. "I've got it in my safe with my rare Emmitt Smith gold card" he said. "Do you know what that Emmitt card might be worth?" he asked. "It is 14 karat gold" he continued. "It is the one that shows him running with the football" he confirmed. Oh no he didn't! There it is again! I knew it! Emmitt only made a living running the football. Why would he ever be pictured on a trading card doing such a crazy thing? "I would just need to see that one too" I said filled with a familiar feeling of deja vu. The guy poked around for a few more minutes. He may have mumbled some other things but by that time I was tuned out. He shuffled off and I thanked him for coming by. Mostly I was just thankful for his contribution to this thread as the very first entry of 2012 !!!

Last weekend a couple teenagers came in. They were blown away by each and every item they saw. They were filled with the usual questions......"Do you buy cards?", "Are these autographs really signed?", "Is this card $10 or $5 because it has 2 prices on it?" You know the usual stuff rolleyes.gif One of the kids who had a nice set of Bama Bangs covering half of his face, declared that he loved the game of basketball. Before you know it that had turned into a game of 50 questions, all of which began with, "Do you have any cards of (insert basketball player here) ?" After showing the kid my selection of base, inserts, RCs, and GUs of every player he asked about, he was ready to make a purchase. You see this kid had wasted a good 2 hours of my time and now he was about to reward me with.......$2.00........in dimes and nickels. mad.gif I could tell from our conversation that he knew very little about basketball and even less about cards but he was determined to spend his $2.00 in change and he was prepared to go ask his mother for as much as another $1.00 if necessary. His sidekick was of the same ilk. Very little knowledge about sports or cards or life in general. He disappeared for a few minutes and returned to ask the question of the day....."Do you have any cards of Mickey Rooney?" unsure.gif Now I was without a shadow of a doubt certain that he had no interest in any Donruss Americana cards so I assumed that he was perhaps looking for another Mickey that some sports fans may have heard of. "You mean Mickey Mantle?" I asked. "I don't know his name. My mom said he was some famous baseball player or something." ohmy.gif "I'm sure she meant Mickey Mantle" I affirmed as I showed him a stack of modern Mantle base and inserts. "I'll be right back the kid said" as he disappeared again. He then returned with $1.00 of his own, and be still my heart....he even had paper money! He picked out a Mantle base card and left. He then returned several more times asking each time for a different baseball legend whom his mother had told him about. All in all I made about $8.00 off these 2 kids for a couple hours of aggravation and frustration. The best part is that they both said they would be back every weekend. Maybe I can teach them a thing or two and they may even turn into solid members of our hobby. Who am I kidding, I hate to say it but I miss Packlets already....... laugh.gif

Posted by: Gforce083 Apr 10 2012, 11:07 PM

Packlets!!!!

Posted by: SFGiants Apr 11 2012, 12:42 AM

Congrats on the new locale! Great read as always, but refering to the previous post, did you let packlets know you were moving?

Jerad

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 11 2012, 06:59 AM

Please don't take this the wrong way, but aren't we always saying that we need to get kids interested in collecting to save our hobby? It seems that this kid was excited and even gave you all that he had and got more?

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Apr 11 2012, 07:22 AM

Okay, now I HAVE to visit and spend a day or two at your new locale!

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Apr 11 2012, 07:43 AM

Congrats on the new location, can't wait to hear more.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 11 2012, 08:16 AM

QUOTE(tyrodsports @ Apr 11 2012, 05:59 AM)
Please don't take this the wrong way, but aren't we always saying that we need to get kids interested in collecting to save our hobby?  It seems that this kid was excited and even gave you all that he had and got more?
*



Absolutely! That is exactly why I was patient with them, showed them everything they asked to see, and tried to teach them about some of the older players like Mickey Rooney....er Mickey Mouse......er Mickey Mantle. Hopefully they will turn into solid members of our hobby. It's still not fun to jump through hoops for a couple bucks but hopefully it is the start of something better with them. I wouldn't bet on it as I have seen this same scenario many many times over the years, but I can still hope.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 11 2012, 08:21 AM

QUOTE(SFGiants @ Apr 10 2012, 11:42 PM)
Congrats on the new locale! Great read as always, but refering to the previous post, did you let packlets know you were moving?

Jerad
*



I didn't have to......he was there before I was!!! laugh.gif His mom has a storefront down the hall. He proudly presented me with a coupon for 10% off at "Stiches", the store in the mall that sells jerseys and hats. Of course, I'm not really into hip hop fashion so I have no use for a straight bill pink and flourescent green Dodgers hat but I appreciated the gesture nonetheless. Packlets is growing up right before our eyes. cool.gif

Posted by: sschind Apr 11 2012, 04:05 PM

QUOTE(19th Century Indiana Jones @ Apr 11 2012, 07:22 AM)
Okay, now I HAVE to visit and spend a day or two at your new locale!
*




Just make sure you ask the right questions and spend more than $8.00 or you could find yourself the subject of a post on here.



Its a joke people. I'm in retail I know exactly what Chad means.

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 11 2012, 06:30 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Apr 11 2012, 08:16 AM)
Absolutely! That is exactly why I was patient with them, showed them everything they asked to see, and tried to teach them about some of the older players like Mickey Rooney....er Mickey Mouse......er Mickey Mantle. Hopefully they will turn into solid members of our hobby. It's still not fun to jump through hoops for a couple bucks but hopefully it is the start of something better with them. I wouldn't bet on it as I have seen this same scenario many many times over the years, but I can still hope.
*



Awesome, now can you tell me how much my one of a kind 89 pro set Barry Sanders is worth. I think it's ultra rare because he is in a lions uniform. Congrats on your new store

Posted by: finestkind Apr 11 2012, 06:55 PM

Chad, congrats on the new store. You have far more patience than I would ever have in my life. Mark Twain never uttered these words of wisdom. It might be that he wasn't from Boston. "Everyone's an idiot until proven other wise. Some people keep on proving it." tongue.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 12 2012, 03:28 PM

I just found out that the local cable TV series, "Tennessee Back Roads" will be filming at our mall this Saturday. Hopefully I will get some air time and maybe some free publicity smile.gif

Posted by: chopinalex Apr 12 2012, 10:24 PM

Great start to volume 4! Mickey Rooney! Isn't he a newsman..biggrin.gif

Posted by: Gforce083 Apr 13 2012, 09:35 AM

I would pay Packlets $20 to hang at your store all day Saturday so I can have a shot at seeing him on TV!

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 19 2012, 11:57 AM

Time for an update from last weekend. Sad to say I saw no TV cameras or air time. I guess I will have to wait for my 15 minutes of fame. Not much new in the strange or unusual question department. Same old same old, "Do you buy cards?", "Are these real autographs?", "Do you have a shop somewhere else?"....you know the usual.

I did have a return visit from a new "customer" that purchased several mid-late 70s Carl Yastrzemski cards from me a few weeks ago for $25.00. I didn't recognize the guy. He looked a bit different with a Lenny Dykstra sized chew of tobacco in his jaw. He strolled in and said, "You get any Carls?". It took me a second to realize what he said. "What's that?" I answered. "Did you get any more Carl Yastrzemski cards. I bet you are stocked up on him now" the guy continued with a sheepish grin. I absolutely detest the idea that I am so desperate to sell something that the moment someone asks for a particular product or player that I can't wait to rush home and "stock up" on that merchandise. I'm not sure why people feel this way but it has been a prevailing theme over the years. Anyway, I informed the guy that I didn't have any new Yaz cards at the moment. "All your cards are authentic?" the guy asked. Any high hopes I had of an intelligent enthusiastic new customer went right down the drain. I guess he had second thoughts about those fake looking 1973-1979 Topps cards I sold him. dry.gif I informed him that everything I sell is 100% authentic and original and he should have no worries. "I'll just check back with you then" the guy concluded as he shot out the door. Let's just say while I appreciate the business, I'm not going out of my way to find any nice early 60s Yaz cards with a little steeper price tag.

The next somehwat interesting encounter occured when a woman came in with her mother. The woman had a shaved head, Marine Corps hat, and was sporting some serious ink on her arms. "Do you have any Babe Ruth cards?" she asked. Now this is another question that I get asked a LOT, usually by children. "I have some modern Ruth cards. Would you like to see them?" I asked. "Yes, please. I collect Babe Ruth and Luke Gehrig." she continued. unsure.gif "Wow, you picked two of the most expensive guys to collect. " I continued. "Yeah, I love the old Yankees like Babe and Luke." she said as she looked through the assortment of Ruth cards I showed her. "I have some Gehrig cards also" I stated. "Can I see those?" she asked. I placed the stack of Gehrig base and inserts in front of her. For the next few minutes I watched as she went through each stack card by card and said aloud, "I have this one", "Ooooh I don't have that one", "I have this one", "Wow I need that one", "I don't know if I have that one", and on and on and on and on. When she finished I said, "If you like old Yankees players I have quite a few cards of Joe Dimaggio, Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Whitey Ford, and others". "Nah, I only collect the GOOD Yankees" she stressed to me. blink.gif She made her $8.00 purchase of Babe Ruth and the great Luke Gehrig cards and away she went leaving me with lots of BAD players like Dimaggio, Mantle, etc. smile.gif

What will next weekend bring? There is never a dull moment......that is for sure.

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 19 2012, 12:09 PM

should have traded for those crappy players, lol

Posted by: Gforce083 Apr 19 2012, 12:36 PM

So we hear the stories of the nickel and dimers... does anyone come in a drop some serious cash! Maybe not as entertaining as the lowballers but I'd get excited to hear about someone buying some high dollar inventory.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 19 2012, 01:07 PM

QUOTE(Gforce083 @ Apr 19 2012, 11:36 AM)
So we hear the stories of the nickel and dimers... does anyone come in a drop some serious cash! Maybe not as entertaining as the lowballers but I'd get excited to hear about someone buying some high dollar inventory.
*



Yes they do G! Unfortunately, there just isn't enough high rollers to go with the nickel and dimers! The largest single sale I have had recently is $1,300. That was for various autographs. There are a few customers that visit every weekend that can be counted on for $300 - $500 per visit. Most people fall somewhere in between. I'd say the average purchase is around $40.

Posted by: finestkind Apr 19 2012, 05:10 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Apr 19 2012, 01:07 PM)
I'd say the average purchase is around $40.
*





That's my lunch money for the week. laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 19 2012, 06:04 PM

QUOTE(finestkind @ Apr 19 2012, 04:10 PM)
That's my lunch money for the week.  laugh.gif
*



I say that only because the couple big spenders bring up the average for the folks who typically spend $20 or less. Actually, that would be an interesting study. If I have time this weekend I may crunch some numbers and get an answer for everyone.

Posted by: Gforce083 Apr 20 2012, 09:24 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Apr 19 2012, 06:04 PM)
I say that only because the couple big spenders bring up the average for the folks who typically spend $20 or less. Actually, that would be an interesting study. If I have time this weekend I may crunch some numbers and get an answer for everyone.
*




I'm not trying to figure out how much money you make a weekend... I just thought it would be cool to hear about some "intelligent" interactions as well as what these big spenders come in and buy.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 20 2012, 12:33 PM

QUOTE(Gforce083 @ Apr 20 2012, 08:24 AM)
I'm not trying to figure out how much money you make a weekend... I just thought it would be cool to hear about some "intelligent" interactions as well as what these big spenders come in and buy.
*



No worries G. I just usually don't include the normal transactions because they are much more boring. smile.gif Now that a card/memorabilia shop has a reality show (Ball Boys on ABC), it is only a matter of time before everyone thinks I am making millions! smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 24 2012, 11:53 PM

Another weekend in the books. Business was strong again. The new location really is like a whole new world. Still I encounter some of the same silly non-sense as before, just not as much. This past weekend saw only a couple of run ins of interest for the readers of this thread.

A man stopped in early Saturday accompanied by his wife/girlfriend. I greeted them in customary fashion with the usual spiel. They browsed around for a few minutes and then asked everyone's favorite question, "Do you buy cards?" rolleyes.gif Of course I answered in customary fashion, "Only cards produced BEFORE 1980". "Well I have a block of cards that are still in the plastic. Never been opened" the man said. I doubted that he was holding on to a 1952 Topps set, still in the plastic, all these years so I thought I would ask just because I am a glutton for punishment. "What year are they from?" I questioned. "Well, I'm not sure. They have all the players in there. They've got the Rangers in there too" he continued. Now don't get me wrong, I like the Texas Rangers just fine, I'm just not sure why this guy chose to stress the fact that his block of cards, still sealed in the plastic, contained all the Rangers players. "I used to manage a convenience store" the lady chimed in. "These were part of a Christmas display we did with some toys, candy, beer, and stuff" she stated. blink.gif Nothing says Christmas like a cold 6 packs of brew. "I think they were from 2008 or 2009. They are all there. They've got the Rangers in there I know" the guy confirmed again. "Sounds like you may have a Topps factory set" I said. "Yeah they are Topps" the guy agreed. With that unusual exchange the happy couple left with the woman telling the man how they need to bring them in for me to see.......Rangers and all. laugh.gif

Later that day a man came in with his two kids. They were browsing around talking aloud about the autographs and were in awe of everything. They were discussing how they would purchase this card and that card and this item and that item IF they had the money. Then they discovered my display case of local teams autos and GU. They ran down the list of Titans autos discussing how they would be worth something IF they were really signed. Then they had a loud talk abou the Marc Mariani Donruss Rated Rookie auto and how it appeared to be printed on the card rather than signed. Without realizing it, I had apparently worn my invisible suit again and could not be seen standing 2 feet away from the loud ramblers. Then came my all-time favorite question............"Are these really signed?" the boy asked. "Yes they are. They come right out of the pack already signed and the COA is printed on the back of the card. Card companies pay players to sign cards to insert into packs and have been regularly for the last 15 years or so" I further explained. This sppech was met with the sounds of silence. blink.gif After a brief pause, they started right back with their discussions about the autographs and how they MIGHT be worth something IF only they were real. dry.gif After all these years I still can't comprehend why people just cannot accept the fact that someone who deals in sports memorabilia could have items that have been autographed by famous athletes. That remains a great mystery. It will go down in history with all the other great riddles such as, whether or not I do in fact BUY cards, the location of the ATM machine and/or bathroom, if I am there every weekend, and of course if I have ever tried those delicious homemade pork rinds, kettle corn, or "Country Boy's Toe Jam Fruit Preserves". laugh.gif

Posted by: SFGiants Apr 25 2012, 01:28 AM

Great read. IF only those autos were REALLY real!

Jerad

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 28 2012, 12:34 PM

I thought I would try something new today. Live stories from the shop....as they happen. This exchange just went down a few moments ago.

An older gentlemen in a Hover Round equipped with an oxygen tank rolled in and said, "I bet I have a card you don't have." I just love it when someone tries to play a game of everything I have is better than what you have. "Oh yeah?" I said lacking enthusiasm. "It is a rookie card" the guy continued. I looked at him waiting for the payoff. We shared a long awkward pause. "California Angels" the guy continued. After another long awkward pause I said, "What is the player's name?" hoping to get an answer within the next day or so. "It's my nephew" he asserted. "O.k. What is your nephew's name?" I asked again. "Minnis" he answered somewhat unsurely. "His name is Minnis. He was a shortstop. Broke his hand. A fastball got him. That's all it takes." the man concluded as he rolled away. And thus, I have been educated as to the short pro career of the promising Angels prospect, Minnis. blink.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 28 2012, 01:15 PM

QUOTE(Gforce083 @ Apr 20 2012, 08:24 AM)
I'm not trying to figure out how much money you make a weekend... I just thought it would be cool to hear about some "intelligent" interactions as well as what these big spenders come in and buy.
*



I meant to post this last week. The average transaction amount was $39.67 per transaction for last weekend. smile.gif Several transactions north of $100 brought the average up again for the $1 - $10 sales. Business continues to be strong at this location. I'm seeing more "big ticket" items such as autographed memorabilia selling well. My WWE merchandise sales have dropped somewhat but still remain a solid part of my business. Unopened pack sales have come to a screeching halt. That is probably the most surprising and disappointing part of my move thus far. Also, people are really loving my McFarlane figures at this location. I am waiting now for a regular vintage buyer to stop by and pick up the sweet 1961 Topps Mickey Mantle card that I have put back for him. That sale alone will bring today's average up ! laugh.gif As always.....more to come........

Posted by: finestkind Apr 28 2012, 07:00 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Apr 28 2012, 12:34 PM)
I thought I would try something new today. Live stories from the shop....as they happen. This exchange just went down a few moments ago.

An older gentlemen in a Hover Round equipped with an oxygen tank rolled in and said, "I bet I have a card you don't have." I just love it when someone tries to play a game of everything I have is better than what you have. "Oh yeah?" I said lacking enthusiasm. "It is a rookie card" the guy continued. I looked at him waiting for the payoff. We shared a long awkward pause. "California Angels" the guy continued. After another long awkward pause I said, "What is the player's name?" hoping to get an answer within the next day or so. "It's my nephew" he asserted. "O.k. What is your nephew's name?" I asked again. "Minnis" he answered somewhat unsurely. "His name is Minnis. He was a shortstop. Broke his hand. A fastball got him. That's all it takes." the man concluded as he rolled away. And thus, I have been educated as to the short pro career of the promising Angels prospect, Minnis.  blink.gif
*




Maybe he meant


user posted image

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 29 2012, 12:34 PM

QUOTE(finestkind @ Apr 28 2012, 06:00 PM)
Maybe he meant
  user posted image
*



laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif

You might be on to something.......

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 29 2012, 12:40 PM

Another live update......this just happened moments ago.

A lady came in eating a bag of popcorn, dropping most of on my shop floor, flanked by her band of merry misfits. "Do you know anyone in town that buys collectors?" she questioned. "Buys what?" I asked for clarification. "Collectors" she asserted as she pointed to my display cases filled with cards. Now I'm pretty sure that even here, human trafficking is still illegal, so I informed her that I bought cards and memorabilia in order to re-stock my inventory. She simply said, "Oh. Well they are gold plated and autographed" as she walked away with her brood. I still don't understand how the Shop At Home Network ever went out of business since everyone in this area managed to purchase the "Limited Edition 24 kt Gold Specials" that they were hocking late at night. I still have nightmares with Don West screaming, "A GEM MINT 10!!!" rolleyes.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Apr 29 2012, 01:46 PM

This doozy of a brag-fest just concluded and man am I exhausted. A guy came in, who I recognized from my previous location. Luckily he didn't recognize me. He had been in my shop a year or so ago and told me much of the same garbage. This time I let him ramble on before letting him know that he had told me all this before. He started out with, "I have a hypothetical question." "O.k." I said while thinking aren't those the types of questions that aren't meant to be answered but are designed to make a point. blink.gif Anyway he started going on and on about how he had 350,000 cards going "Plum back to the 1940s". He went on and on and on and on and on and on and on and on about this great massive collection he has acquired over the years. I listened or at least pretended to, while he explained to me the rarest of the rare items that he had such as cards from the 80s, 90s, and even some Troy Aikman cards in a can! laugh.gif He also explained how he refused to let anyone view this collection although many have tried over the years. "I would just have to stand right there with a camera and watch them. I would be afraid they would bend a corner or something." he declared. laugh.gif "It is going to be difficult to sell your collection without allowing anyone to see it" I explained. "I don't want to sell just one or two cards. I could do that all day long. I want to sell everything. If someone offered my .50 per card I would probably sell them. That would be an awesome deal. You would be getting some $300 and $400 cards for .50" he said proudly. "Maybe so but you would be getting thousands of .05 and .10 cards for .50 as well. Usually there are far more of those in a collection that the $300 and $400 ones" I countered. He kept on hanging around talking about things that made no sense like how he had cards as big and thick as his hand that were old, old, old. As usual I was unimpressed. He told this tall tale all while leaning on my display case oh high grade vintage cards that apparently he didn't notice. He finally left after providing me with this parting shot of business wisdom, "You've got to spend money to make money. If you can't afford to spend any money, then you aren't going to make much money." clapping.gif That is true in some sense. Of course I prefer to spend money on things that I can actually re-sell to make money and not old, old, old, Pinnacle cans of 1990s Troy Aikman cards. That is just me though. I'm weird like that. Before anyone asks I did not spend $175,000 on this collection. Oh brother.......the day is only half over........

Posted by: road_runner_1964 Apr 29 2012, 02:40 PM

wink.gif

Posted by: dielonthug Apr 29 2012, 02:45 PM

LOL, the woman asking you if you buy collectors had me rolling. Love the human trafficking line. laugh.gif

And "technically", that guy with the "Minnie" card does have a card you don't have. "technically" we all have millions of cards you don't actually have, lol.

Posted by: tyrodsports Apr 29 2012, 03:49 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Apr 29 2012, 12:34 PM)
laugh.gif  laugh.gif  laugh.gif

You might be on to something.......
*


Lolololol

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 8 2012, 04:07 PM

Nothing too much this past weekend in the way of the humorous or disturbing. Lots of the same old questions, "Do you buy cards?", "Do you have any My Little Ponies?", "Do you take cash?", "Do you frame jerseys?", etc. The only moment that gave me a chuckle occured when a regular customer stopped by to say hello and introduce me to her boyfriend. He immediately puffed up and started to tell me about all the great stuff that he had when he was younger. I guess he was in full impress the girlfriend mode. Then he had to show her his knowledge of baseball by asking me this, "So how much is that MVP card of John Maddux worth these days?" unsure.gif "Who?" I asked somewhat confused. "Atlanta Braves" the guy said with a smirk like I was the idiot. "You mean Greg Maddux?" I asked. "Yeah Greg Maddux. How much is that MVP card of his worth?" he continued. I then had to inform him of the mass production of the 80s and 90s stuff and how most of Maddux's cards are fairly cheap..........even THAT MVP card.

Posted by: osufan2383 May 12 2012, 12:34 PM

lol puff his chest only to be deflated because he is not that smart.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 22 2012, 02:21 PM

Just checking in with an update or two. Not really much new to report. I still get asked if I buy cards about 20 times per day. I still get told stories of all the great super rare mint condition turn of the century rarities that everyone else has and are willing to sell, but never seem to bring them in for me to look at. Basically, I deal with a lot of folks that are full of ...........misinformation and incorrect ideas about their stuff. One such example occured this past Saturday.

A lady and her husband came in and began to scan around my display cases. They settled on the vintage case and the lady began wondering aloud how much "daddy's cards" were worth. Luckily for them I was standing behind the counter less than 3 feet away. Of course, I had yet again worn my invisible suit so I could go undetected and eavesdrop on all these great conversations. Finally, before her head exploded with worry, the lady acknowledged my existence and said, "I have a question". "O.k. What can I help you with?" I responded. "How much is a Pete Rose rookie card?" the lady continued. Now folks, I have been asked about the Pete Rose rookie card more than any other single sports card in history. It seems as though everyone has one or two or in this case...... "That is a rare card. In near mint or better condition that is about a $1,000 card" I said answering the lady's previous question. She smiled and looked at her husband and said, "My daddy has 3 of them!" blink.gif Of course he does. Apparently I was sick at home the day everyone received their multiple 1963 Topps Pete Rose Rookie cards. dry.gif Everyone has a Pete Rose Rookie Card, a Nolan Ryan Rookie Card, and some Michael Jordan and Dale Earnhardt 24kt Gold cards. That is the foundation upon which all of these people's ultra valuable collections are built. "It is a pretty rare card. I have only seen a dozen or so in person in my 25 years of dealing in sports cards" I continued. "There are also a lot of counterfeits of that card" I asserted. "Well these are the real deal" the lady confirmed. Then her and her companion thanked me and went away. Then I was thankful. I will wait with great anticipation for the day that this lady brings in all 3 of her 1986 Pete Rose Years subset cards valued at .25 each. laugh.gif

Posted by: Luke2411 May 22 2012, 10:36 PM

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&_trksid=p4340.l2557&hash=item20c522f88a&item=140746356874&nma=true&pt=US_Baseball&rt=nc&si=mB9n6%252F317YCqtTo4EeyfaX%252Bmkik%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc

Posted by: ISLP55 May 22 2012, 10:54 PM

Man you have the life of Riley. You ever seen that old show? You have a good thing going there in the new location and people surrounding you that seem to make it so! LOL If you never seen the the show you may not get the referance.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 24 2012, 03:04 PM

QUOTE(Luke2411 @ May 22 2012, 09:36 PM)
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&_trksid=p4340.l2557&hash=item20c522f88a&item=140746356874&nma=true&pt=US_Baseball&rt=nc&si=mB9n6%252F317YCqtTo4EeyfaX%252Bmkik%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc
*



Well looks like daddy only has 2 left now.......... laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 26 2012, 05:20 PM

A couple tidbits from today's happenings at the shop. Once again, we will prove that most people have absolutely no idea what they have. A guy strolled in and said that he had been directed to me by someone else. Who that person is that did the directing, I have no idea. If I ever find out though...... dry.gif Anyway, the guy sat a bag on one of my display case and said, "I have some old comic books and ball cards here that I thought you may need. Do you buy cards?" There it is! I had been open for business all of 30 minutes and I already received my favorite inquiry. "Only cards produced BEFORE 1980" I stressed. "I've got some 50s, 60s, and 70s in there" the guy continued."Ok" I said knowing in the back of my mind exactly where this was headed. I opened a shoe box to reveal some cards arranged neatly in 2 rows. I could see the back of the cards in one row and quickly my trained eye recognized that they were........drumroll please.......1989 Topps baseball. A quick thumb through the other row revealed 1988 Topps baseball and 1990 Topps baseball. "These are 1988,89, and 90" I said looking at the guy waiting for 1950s, 60s, and 70s to fall from the sky. The guy got somewhat agitated and said, "I don't see how these cards could be from the 80s because I wasn't even collecting then." blink.gif I informed him that if he doubted my information the dates could be found on the back of any of the cards. then he went on his merry way grumbling and muttering under his breath. I just love happy endings.

I am still waiting for another golden opportunity to retire to waltz through my door. I received a call from a man yesterday informing me that he had found me via the CardShopFinder.com smart phone app. That was cool to hear. The folks at www.cardshopfinder.com do a great job helping promote card shops across the US and Canada. The guy then went on to tell me that he had about 15 cards that he was looking to sell. I then informed him that i was looking only for cards produced BEFORE 1980. He then rambled on and on telling me about each card. After he ran through a few of the cards he had, I noticed an interesting trend......1968 Topps Nolan Ryan RC, 1969 Topps Reggie Jackson RC, 1981 Topps Joe Montana RC, 1982 Topps Cal Ripken RC,1984 Fleer Update Roger Clemens RC, etc...... You see every card that the guy managed to name is known to have many counterfeit examples out there. I didn't tell him that. I invited him to bring them in and if I didn't want to purchase them I may be able to offer him my consignment services. I just want to get out the old magnifying glass and take a closer look. He said he lived in Sparta which is about 20 miles south of my location. He said he didn't want to "come all the way there if I didn't want to buy". Still he agreed to bring the cards in. I am about 30 minutes from shut down and still nothing. Maybe tomorrow....maybe tomorrow. Tune in next time and see if these cards ever showed up in my shop.

Posted by: chopinalex May 26 2012, 10:10 PM

Your just missed out on 'the guy' that was gonna make you rich!

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 28 2012, 11:56 PM

QUOTE(chopinalex @ May 26 2012, 09:10 PM)
Your just missed out on 'the guy' that was gonna make you rich!
*



Not so fast my friend! I received a call from the guy with the array of RCs at 7:30 am on Sunday. Needless to say I didn't answer. If someone calls super early or late, I don't answer. If they don't have any concept of common courtesy and having respect for someone's privacy then I ignore them. He then called me again at a more reasonable 2 pm. That time I answered and he just wanted to confirm that I was in fact open before he "wasted gas" and came "all the way" to see me. I live 68 miles from my shop. It takes me about an hour to an hour and 15 minutes to get there. I have no sympathy for someone driving 15 - 20 miles and acting like it is a week long cross-country journey. Anyway, the guy said he knew exactly where I was located. About 15 minutes before closing as I was securing some items and locking up some display cases I got yet another call from the guy. This time he was at the mall and couldn't find me. I had given him exact directions on where to park and enter the mall to find me. I told him to come to side facing the interstate past JC Penney and enter through the door marked "Service Merchandise". He called and started rambling about how big the place was and how he didn't know where to go. Of course he had parked on the opposite end of the building than where I had instructed him to park. He was naming off every store and shop he passed as I explained that he should look for the big sign that says "SPORTS CARDS". I had zero patience at this point because the guy was getting on my nerves with his whole schtick. Finally he found me at 6 pm....closing time. I told him that he would have to wait until I had closed up because securing my merchandise was the most important concern I had at that moment. After everything was put away, display cases covered and locked, I took a look at what this guy had brought me. He proudly displayed Donruss, Fleer, and Topps Cal Ripken rookie cards, a Topps Frank Thomas rookie card, a very worn 1971 Topps Nolan Ryan, another worn 1977 Topps Nolan Ryan, and a very badly worn Reggie Jackson rookie card. Then he pulled out 1 other card....a pretty nice 1972 Topps Nolan Ryan. This card was well centered, had nice corners, no marks or blemished of any kind front or back. It is from the high number series and has a high BV of $100. In short, it didn't belong with the rest of those cards. It belonged in my vintage display case where it will now proudly reside for a few weeks until someone snatches it up. At least it wasn't a total loss. Sometimes you have to put up with a lot of aggrevation to get something worthwhile. The guy even remarked that I had a lot of nice things that he would like to have when he gets the money. Who knows maybe he will come back at a later time and do some more wheeling and dealing. This may be the start of a profitable business relationship. I just hope that he made it "all the way" back home those 15 grueling miles without having to get a hotel room and layover for the night. wink.gif

Posted by: Gforce083 May 29 2012, 11:32 AM

I see you don't like the potential business I throw your way wink.gif

Posted by: Gforce083 May 30 2012, 11:34 AM

Do you want to offer your consignment services for what's left of my Jason Campbell collection? I'm sure you have plenty of people who come in and ask for his stuff smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 May 30 2012, 02:32 PM

QUOTE(Gforce083 @ May 30 2012, 10:34 AM)
Do you want to offer your consignment services for what's left of my Jason Campbell collection? I'm sure you have plenty of people who come in and ask for his stuff smile.gif
*



No offense G but I would probably have better luck selling Glenn Campbell CDs than Jason Campbell cards. wink.gif

Posted by: Gforce083 Jun 1 2012, 12:03 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ May 30 2012, 02:32 PM)
No offense G but I would probably have better luck selling Glenn Campbell CDs than Jason Campbell cards.  wink.gif
*




Ouch... come on, think about it. A whole display case and banner reading "2004 SEC OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR" people would flock from miles and miles!

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Jun 2 2012, 09:45 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ May 22 2012, 02:21 PM)
Basically, I deal with a lot of folks that are full of ...........misinformation and incorrect ideas about their stuff.
*



You mean second-hand-informational-theory?

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 2 2012, 03:35 PM

QUOTE(19th Century Indiana Jones @ Jun 2 2012, 08:45 AM)
You mean second-hand-informational-theory?
*



Absolutely! laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 3 2012, 02:33 PM

As the weekend winds down I thought I would change it up a little bit and share some of the more amusing questions I have been asked this weekend. These are direct quotes. If you don't understand them, don't feel bad, I didn't either! smile.gif

"Do you buy gold?"

"Do you have any baseball cards or only football?"

"Would you take $15 for this Jerry Rice autographed photo?"

"Could you use 100 St. Louis Cardinals lapel pins?"

"Do you have any real rookie cards?"

"Will you be getting any more of those hats?"

"Did you see which way Danny went?"

"I've got a complete set of 1991 Nascar cards. How much would they be worth?

"How much is Peyton Manning worth?"

"Do you have any Ricky Cheshire cards?"

"Are you going to open today?"

"Do you have any Jim Cena wrestling dolls?"

That's only a s mall sample folks. It's no wonder I'm loosing my mind. blink.gif




Posted by: sschind Jun 5 2012, 07:24 AM

Are you going to tell us or not...which way did Danny go...the world wonders.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 9 2012, 12:20 PM

Live from the shop today we have a couple jewels already.

A couple college aged guys dropped in to ask if I "take in cards". I explained that I'm really only looking for stuff produced before 1980. "I've got so many cards from when I was young, it would blow your mind" the guy commented. Judging by his age, I'm sure my mind would be blown by mass produced early 90s garbage. So typical. His companion did chime in and offer up this little tidbit, "My friend just got a John Elway card that was one from one and it had the cotton in it". blink.gif "Oh it was a jersey card?" I asked. "Yeah, he sold it for $650" the guy said. "If you get something rare like that out of these new products you can get pretty big money for it sometimes I affirmed. If only I could meet the buyer of the one from one Elway cotton card, I have plenty of Elway stuff I would love to sell them. smile.gif They guys continued to browse around for a few minutes commenting aloud on each player and the price of his rookie card. Then the guy that told me about the cotton asked, "Is the orange sticker the right price?" rolleyes.gif Once again my system of discounting items has managed to confuse someone. In an economy where the majority of people will ask you to take less for an item that is marked "FREE" I can't understand why anyone would question an item that has a reduced price. I really thought doing that would simplify things but apparently it only made it worse. I just can't seem to make my shop idiot proof no matter how hard I try.

A couple youngsters poked their heads in my doorway and one of them asked, "Is everything in here a collector's item?" "Yes it sure is." I responded. "Does everything cost a lot?" the youinger of the two asked. "Not everything. I have some items that are only .25" I answered. "See I told you stupid!" the child snapped at the other one as they ran out the doorway. I'm always glad to settle friendly wagers, direct folks to the kettle corn, pork rinds, bathroom, ATM, or even help people decide which direction Danny went.

Until next time.......

Posted by: sschind Jun 9 2012, 02:21 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Jun 9 2012, 12:20 PM)
Live from the shop today we have a couple jewels already.


A couple youngsters poked their heads in my doorway and one of them asked, "Is everything in here a collector's item?" "Yes it sure is." I responded. "Does everything cost a lot?" the youinger of the two asked. "Not everything. I have some items that are only .25" I answered. "See I told you stupid!" the child snapped at the other one as they ran out the doorway. I'm always glad to settle friendly wagers, direct folks to the kettle corn, pork rinds, bathroom, ATM, or even help people decide which direction Danny went.

Until next time.......
*



I'd bet anything that the "stupid" one was Danny.

Posted by: finestkind Jun 9 2012, 03:18 PM

Poor kid. His parents named him stupid. laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 10 2012, 03:04 PM

Just another update.....this time not a story of what the heck but rather a story of some nice pulls. We have already tweeted this out via our Twitter account and posted it on our Facebook page but I wanted to share it here as well. A regular customer just busted a hobby box of 2012 Topps Archives and pulled a Will Clark Autograph (BV $100) and a.........Bryce Harper SP RC (BV $250) !!!! ohmy.gif For good measure the box also contained a Wally Backman Autograph and Madison Bumgarner GU. Not too shabby!

Now if I only knew which way Danny went so I could tell him the news......

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 10 2012, 03:36 PM

When it rains it pours. I just had a run in of sorts with a jerk who thought he would one up me.

A guy walked in and started looking at some of my framed 8x10 autographed photos. There were several people in the shop in three or four small groups looking at various items. I noticed he was paying close attention to the autographed photos. I could just feel something building. "Let me know if I can help any of you with anything" I said in a statement to everyone in the shop. "You kinda just did" quipped the loudmouth know-it-all. After the crowd somewhat dispursed the guy came up to me and said, "I just bought one of those Kaline pictures a while back for a couple bucks. I see you have $79 on yours." he continued. "Yes that photo is autographed and authenticated by PSA and also professionally framed and double matted. Given the fee for autographs, the cost for authentication services, and the cost of professional framing, that is well below typical retail prices" I said with a smile. The guy looked dumbfounded for a moment. He supposedly was a big Tigers fan. he was such a big tigers fan that I had to point out the Al Kaline autographed bat, also authenticated by PSA, in the display case just a few inches away from the photo he was remarking about. "That is pretty slick" he said of the bat. "Maybe I will get it for Father's Day" he said hopefully. "I was just trying to figure out how old Kaline would be now. He's got to be in his 70s" he continued. "Well I can find out" I said reaching for some modern Kaline base cards I had in my superstar boxes. "He was born in 1934" I said handing the guy the cards to browse through. He ended up spending all of $1.50 but he thanked me and called me sir before he left. Game, set, match. That was the sweetest $1.50 I have made in a while. I just get a kick out of pushy abrasive loudmouths that think they can one up me with their nonsensical stories. I especially love the idiots that want to loudly proclaim their superior knowledge of collectibles to other customers in the shop. I may look young but I've been doing this for 25 years and this ain't my first rodeo. Now I think I will take that $1.50 and go get me a large sweet tea at the food court. If I see Danny.......I will update everyone accordingly. cool.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 10 2012, 04:31 PM

A couple other quick observations......

Why do people think that the fascimilie signatures on Bowman cards and vintage Topps cards are actual autographs while they think that actual autographed items are not real? dry.gif

Why do people not understand the difference between a reprint and a modern card of a retired player? The word reprint is misused more than any term in the hobby today. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 17 2012, 12:25 PM

A few more nuggets from this weekends action......


"Do you have any of the new mini bat display racks?"

"Do you have a shop somehwere or is this it?"

"Do you have any of those new cards?"

"Did you ever get any new Nascar hats in yet?"

"I didn't even know they made hockey cards."

"Do you take cash?"

"Is this the place where my dad bought his cards?"

"This card has $12 and $5 on it. What does that mean?"

"Do you have any cards of that guy that played for Tech? He is supposed to be doing pretty good this year."

The next statement pretty much sums up alot of the folks I see every weekend. The guy quoted above that was confused by the card with the white price sticker reading $12 and orange price sticker directly below the white one that read $5, browsed through my huge stack of Derek Jeter base and insert cards for at least 5 minutes before uttering, "I don't know anything about cards". blink.gif Apparently he doesn't know anything about shopping in general since the concept of a discounted item was so hard for him to grasp. I'm beginning to think that I'm not here to sell sports collectibles but rather to educate the masses who lack any shred of common sense. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 17 2012, 12:33 PM

One other tidbit, I Tweeted and posted on my Facebook page yesterday about some last pack mojo that happened to me at my shop. We had 1 pack of 2011 Topps WWE cards left in the box. It had sat in the box for a few weeks receiving no love or attention from any customers. You see, generally folks loathe the last pack in the box. They will not buy it. I usually try to bundle the last pack or two into a deal for someone when they are buying packs so I don't get stuck with the dreaded last pack in the box. Somehow it happened. There that lonely pack sat staring at me. I was bored. I didn't plan to re-stock that product since a new WWE product will be coming out soon so I decided to bust the pack and sell the base cards (wrestling base from newer products sell pretty well for me). So I opened the pack and boom!..........a John Cena Autograph !!! $100 BV. Not too shabby. Let this be a lesson to you all......NEVER leave the last pack. smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 17 2012, 04:09 PM

And the winner of today's completely and totally clueless because they have obviously been living under a rock award goes to.......

A guy who after browsing my $5 GU box and all my display cases asked, "Do you have any Brian Harper cards?" blink.gif

The guy corrected himself and said "Bryce Harper" after a few seconds of me staring at him blankly. Folks if you cannot even get the name right of the hottest player in the hobby, you probably shouldn't be trying to buy his cards. I bet everything in my shop that if I had a Bryce Harper card he wouldn't have bought it because he also has no idea what kind of prices are associated with Harper's stuff. I also would have given anything to have had an early 90s common or two of former Twins catcher, Brian Harper lying around just to try to sell him for a few bucks. laugh.gif

Posted by: sschind Jun 18 2012, 04:44 PM

Whenever I have two prices on a product and someone asks "what is the price on this one" I'll say "you can pay whichever one you want" I have yet to have anyone pay the higher price.

Posted by: ISLP55 Jun 18 2012, 05:52 PM

QUOTE(sschind @ Jun 18 2012, 04:44 PM)
Whenever I have two prices on a product and someone asks "what is the price on this one"  I'll say "you can pay whichever one you want"  I have yet to have anyone pay the higher price.
*


laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif laugh.gif blink.gif

Posted by: SFGiants Jun 19 2012, 12:05 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Jun 3 2012, 02:33 PM)
As the weekend winds down I thought I would change it up a little bit and share some of the more amusing questions I have been asked this weekend. These are direct quotes. If you don't understand them, don't feel bad, I didn't either! smile.gif

"Do you buy gold?"

"Do you have any baseball cards or only football?"

"Would you take $15 for this Jerry Rice autographed photo?"

"Could you use 100 St. Louis Cardinals lapel pins?"

"Do you have any real rookie cards?"

"Will you be getting any more of those hats?"

"Did you see which way Danny went?"

"I've got a complete set of 1991 Nascar cards. How much would they be worth?

"How much is Peyton Manning worth?"

"Do you have any Ricky Cheshire cards?"

"Are you going to open today?"

"Do you have any Jim Cena wrestling dolls?"

That's only a s mall sample folks. It's no wonder I'm loosing my mind.  blink.gif
*


Thanks. This list was hilarious. I will have to remember to read it again on a bad day. laugh.gif

P.S. Ricky Cheshire????????????????????????????????????? laugh.gif

Jerad

Posted by: northicehero99 Jun 19 2012, 05:58 AM

Do you buy gold? I would have answered that one with a "yes, at $300 an ounce". If they ask you should answer.

Did you see which way Danny went? I would have crossed my arms across my chest pointing in the opposite directions and said "he went dat'a'way!" laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 21 2012, 10:35 AM

QUOTE(sschind @ Jun 18 2012, 03:44 PM)
Whenever I have two prices on a product and someone asks "what is the price on this one"  I'll say "you can pay whichever one you want"  I have yet to have anyone pay the higher price.
*



Oh yeah. I've done that too. I actually had a guy pay full BV for a Ryan Howard RC last year rather than pay the discounted price. I think the problem stems from the fact that many people think that every card of a player should be priced the same. They don't understand that some cards are more rare that other cards and some are more desirable than others thus they are valued differently.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 21 2012, 10:43 AM

It's not just at the shop that I get some "interesting" responses. As with any small business, I try to take advantage of all forms of advertising possible. There is a local classified ad site that has a "Collectibles & Antiques" category. You can post 10 free ads on the site. I usually keep a few ads on the site just to keep my name out there locally. This site has led to some sales for me over the years it has also led to some head scratching replies like the ones below.

I received the following 2 messages this morning both from the same person. They have not been altered or corrected in any way. What you see is what I got.....

AD #1: http://www.golsn.com/listings/collectibles-antiques/2842923.html

RESPONSE:

"hey do you have any threw duke of hazzard autographed item please let me know i would like to get this one but i do not have the 60 i could give 49 for it but i do not get paid and tell june 29 but am a big duke of hazzard fan so please let me know thank you and god bless"

AD #2 : http://www.golsn.com/listings/collectibles-antiques/2842937.html

"i am look for a couple pic they is super star if you have them please let me know how much and they are
Undertaker,triple h, hbk,kane,edge,and the hardy boys please let me know i am big fan of the undertaker and triple h and hbk and the hardy boys so please let me know if you have any thing"

If anyone out there is a current or former English teacher.........I apologize........your head probably just exploded. laugh.gif

I am still trying to formulate responses to these fine inquiries. If this person shows up at the shop this weekend, you know there will be an update! laugh.gif

Posted by: sschind Jun 22 2012, 10:54 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Jun 21 2012, 10:43 AM)
It's not just at the shop that I get some "interesting" responses. As with any small business, I try to take advantage of all forms of advertising possible. There is a local classified ad site that has a "Collectibles & Antiques" category. You can post 10 free ads on the site. I usually keep a few ads on the site just to keep my name out there locally. This site has led to some sales for me over the years it has also led to some head scratching replies like the ones below.

I received the following 2 messages this morning both from the same person. They have not been altered or corrected in any way. What you see is what I got.....

AD #1: http://www.golsn.com/listings/collectibles-antiques/2842923.html

RESPONSE:

"hey do you have any threw duke of hazzard autographed item please let me know i would like to get this one but i do not have the 60 i could give 49 for it but i do not get paid and tell june 29 but am a big duke of hazzard fan so please let me know thank you and god bless"

AD #2 : http://www.golsn.com/listings/collectibles-antiques/2842937.html

"i am look for a couple pic they is super star if you have them please let me know how much and they are
Undertaker,triple h, hbk,kane,edge,and the hardy boys please let me know i am big fan of the undertaker and triple h and hbk and the hardy boys so please let me know if you have any thing"

If anyone out there is a current or former English teacher.........I apologize........your head probably just exploded.  laugh.gif

I am still trying to formulate responses to these fine inquiries. If this person shows up at the shop this weekend, you know there will be an update!  laugh.gif
*




I can only think of one appropriate (and one not so appropriate) response. The appropriate one would be a simple WHAT? The inappropriate one would have a couple more words attached but I will let imagination figure them out.

On a side note I never realized that Daisy Duke's head was so big compared to the rest of her body. Not that other parts of her body are small mind you. Maybe its just the hair or maybe its just that I never really looked at her head before.

Posted by: Gforce083 Jun 22 2012, 11:48 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Jun 17 2012, 12:25 PM)
A few more nuggets from this weekends action......
"Do you have any of the new mini bat display racks?"

    Yeah, they're in the back. Come on, I'll show ya! ph34r.gif

"Do you have a shop somehwere or is this it?"

    Did you leave your sense somewhere, or is this it?

"Do you have any of those new cards?"

    Football? Baseball? Pokemon? Hock.... no, no I don't.

"Did you ever get any new Nascar hats in yet?"

    No, but I did get a fresh stock on these T-shirts in. http://www.zazzle.com/boring_tee_shirt-235693314741719640

"I didn't even know they made hockey cards."

    I don't even know what hockey is. Can you explain?

"Do you take cash?"

    Only in crisp $20 bills.

"Is this the place where my dad bought his cards?"

    You're dad is my best customer, he's always telling me funny stories about his idiot son.

"This card has $12 and $5 on it. What does that mean?"

    $17, but for you, I can settle for $5.

"Do you have any cards of that guy that played for Tech? He is supposed to be doing pretty good this year."

    Bam Morris?

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jun 22 2012, 04:01 PM

QUOTE(sschind @ Jun 22 2012, 09:54 AM)

On a side note I never realized that Daisy Duke's head was so big compared to the rest of her body.  Not that other parts of her body are small mind you.  Maybe its just the hair or maybe its just that I never really looked at her head before.

*



laugh.gif That paragraph made my day! The feathered hair does make her head look bigger........if you make it up that far. smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jul 1 2012, 02:10 PM

Well folks. The person that responded to my online ads has responded again. Below is the uneditied gold I received this time around.

Question:

"hey there do you buy nascar jacket or any thing like or tna action figure please let me know"

My Response:

I may be interested in some TNA figures. Let me know what you have. Thank you.

Their Response:

"I have kevin nash ,desmond wolfe,amazing red. and i have brand new dvd it the best of raven never more"

My Response:

Im looking for current TNA stars only. Thank you.

Their Response:

"do you michael vick jersey or any thing like it"

My Response:

I have several Michael Vick football cards. They start at .25 each.
Thanks.

That was the last message. I can't wait to see what they have to say when they check in this week.

I did have one "customer" that got on my last nerve with yet another stupid question.

Customer: Do you have any Bryce Harper Rookie Cards for a couple bucks?

Me: That's a clown question bro. cool.gif

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Jul 1 2012, 02:58 PM

Well, do you? mellow.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jul 1 2012, 09:56 PM

QUOTE(19th Century Indiana Jones @ Jul 1 2012, 01:58 PM)
Well, do you?  mellow.gif
*



Does anyone? I'd love to buy some for a "couple bucks". I swear my fuse is getting shorter with people lately. I don't know if it is the heat or the stupidity of some folks or a combination of the two. I think i need a break. smile.gif

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Jul 2 2012, 12:06 PM

Maybe you need to cut back on the salt. I know I had to. And with all that stupidity around you, don't you feel like a wolf amongst sheep?

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jul 3 2012, 03:48 PM

QUOTE(19th Century Indiana Jones @ Jul 2 2012, 11:06 AM)
Maybe you need to cut back on the salt. I know I had to. And with all that stupidity around you, don't you feel like a wolf amongst sheep?
*



Indy, sometimes I feel like the world is one giant tuxedo and I'm a lonely pair of white shoes.

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Jul 3 2012, 04:14 PM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Jul 3 2012, 03:48 PM)
Indy, sometimes I feel like the world is one giant tuxedo and I'm a lonely pair of white shoes.
*



Then you need to find this and all will be well.....

user posted image

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jul 3 2012, 10:04 PM

QUOTE(19th Century Indiana Jones @ Jul 3 2012, 03:14 PM)
Then you need to find this and all will be well.....

user posted image
*



laugh.gif
I could probably show up wearing that outfit at the shop and nobody would even flinch.

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Jul 8 2012, 04:24 PM

Another weekend is almost in the books so I thought I would again share some close encounters of the strange kind.

A young guy in his mid to late 20s walked in to my shop yesterday and looked around for a few seconds and then asked, "Do you have any cards of my favorite player?" blink.gif I waited for a few seconds awaiting the name of that player. The name never came. I was met with a blank stare for 30 seconds or so of uncomfortable silence. "I think we just sold the last one yesterday" I said with a warm smile. "Oh, well" replied the young man and away he went. I couldn't help but look at a regular customer of mine that was in the shop at the time as he chuckled at the whole scene I said, "THAT just happened".

A few other mind bending questions and remarks from this weekend's action:

"Do you accept traveler's checks?"

"Do you have any of the 2013 cards yet?"

"Do you have any hemp necklaces?"

"What did you do with all those coins you had?"

"Where is the guy that usually runs this place?"

"Have you ever had the BBQ here?"

"How much are Pogs worth these days?"

"I didn't know Peyton Manning played for Tennessee."

"I bet Peyton Manning's cards are not worth anything since he left the Colts."

"I've got 3 milk crates full of cards. How much would they be worth?"

"Did Barry Bonds retire?"

"Look at all that 'rasslin' stuff. I thought they outlawed it."

"Do you know where the sugar gliders are?"


And last but certaintly not least........

"Do you have change for a quarter?"

Oh the fun never ends........ laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Sep 5 2012, 11:34 AM

I haven't updated this thread in a little while. I've found that new material is hard to come by as I keep getting the same old tired questions. I am still constantly asked if I buy cards. I am also still constantly confronted by folks who get very excited to tell me about all the great items they own especially 24kt gold Dale Earnhardt cards and Pinnacle cards in a can. Below are a few of the more memorable encounters from recent weeks. Enjoy!

A lady came in last weekend and looked around then asked me, "Do you know anything about baseball cards?" blink.gif After I assured her that I had at least heard of these things called baseball cards, she commenced with her story. Apparently she had acquired some cards in a trade for a colt. Not Johnny Unitas or Peyton Manning.....an actual horse! She continued on about all the cards she had....blah....blah....blah....she looked around and from time to time would say, "I have that one!" or "I think I have him!" as she peered cluelessly into my display cases. After realizing the cardboard fortune she possessed she left me with this, "I got all those cards and now I'm getting the colt back because the lady can't afford to feed it." I told her lucky for me my cards don't eat anything and I encouraged her to saddle up and bring me her awesome cards to check out before wishing her Happy Trails! laugh.gif

Continuing with the western theme, a guy in full western gear complete with boots, hat, string tie, and handlebar mustache sauntered in and began to look around. His wife was dressed in a frilly flowing dress straight out of a 1960s western movie. I had seen this guy several times at my previous location and had been approached by him more than once to tell the same story about a bunch of wrestling magazines that he wanted to sell. Now I admit, my memory isn't as sharp as it used to be, but I remember faces and especially remember the outlandish things these people say. I mean, if you see the same person EVERY week for 10 years, don't you think you would at least recognize them? I guess I am not very memorable because several times people have approached me to tell me the exact same story as they did a couple months prior not realizing that they have talked to me several times. Then again, given the level of intellect involved in most of their stories it shouldn't surprise me I guess. It does surprise me that some of these people can actually find their way home and back again to repeat their crazy tales. The guy looked around for a minute then asked, "How much is Dan Marino?" unsure.gif "What Dan Marino item are you asking about?" I wondered. "Rookie" the man said. "Marino's rookie card is from the 1984 Topps set. It has a book value of $60." I said. "I got one." the man firmly stated. There was a pause I assume waiting for me to applaud, high five him, or hug it out like bros. "Yeah, I have one down there in the display case labeled Football Rookie Cards." I answered. "What about Peyton Manning's rookie?" the man continued. "Peyton has probably 50 or more different rookie cards so it would depend on which one you have" I answered. "The main one" the man said. blink.gif At this point any shred of patience I had for this ridiculously dressed individual went right out the window. "Manning's rookies range from about $10 to $1500 depending on what you have" I again continued. "Mine is from the 80s" he again stated with a poker face. "Peyton Manning was in grade school in the 80s. His first year in the NFL was 1998" I said with distain in my voice. This drew a few chuckles from some other regular customers who were browsing around the shop. The man's wife then chimed in and stated, "You really know your cards!" At that point my self esteem had never been higher. Receiving such a fine compliment from a couple of Bonanza stage hands really made my day. "Yes, I have been dealing with sports memorabilia most of my life" I affirmed to the lady. "Do you want to buy some wrestling magazines?" the man chimed in. "What era are they from?" I asked. "80s" the man deadpanned. "Most of my wrestling customers are younger kids and they only know the current stars. They don't know many of the guys from the past." I said. "That's a shame. That was back when they really 'rassled. They didn't fake it back then." the man said proving once and for all that he was in fact dilusional. "I may have to bring my cards in to sell them to you" the man said as he and his wife walked away. I can hardly wait for that money train to roll into the station. Of course, I'm sure we will have this conversation again several times before I ever see any cards from 'ol Tex. smile.gif

And now for a few of the better quotes recently overheard at the shop......

"Do you take cash?"

"Kevin Durant played for the Sonics?"
followed by ........"I didn't know the Sonics moved to Oklahoma City."

"My dad found about 8 or 10 Steve McNair plaques on clearance at the Dollar Store. How much would they be worth?"
followed by........"Oh, I would never sell them."

"I'm looking for the new 2013 Fleer baseball cards."

"Would you be interested in an autographed baseball signed by Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle?"

"Are you here all the time?"

"Do you have any old Pete McGee rookie cards?"

"Is Barry Bonds retired?"

"How much are those old Pee-knuckle cards in a can worth?"

"When did they start making hockey cards?"


Posted by: SFGiants Sep 6 2012, 03:09 AM

I cant stop laughing LOLOLOLOLOL. Thanks!

Jerad

Posted by: sschind Sep 6 2012, 09:28 AM

An interesting (maybe) story regarding those Pee-knuckle cards in a can. I collect Packers cards and several years ago I came across a set of cards featuring the Packers and cowboys called "Showdown in Titletown" It was an interesting set and cheap (my favorite kind) so I bought it for the Packers half and sent the cowboys cards out a year or so ago to a cowboys collector. A few weeks ago I was at our local flea market and this guy had about a two dozen of the Pinnacle inside Showdown in Titletown cans. I bought one for $3.00 just to have the unopened can. I knew they were a score product but never knew they were from the PI collection. Not worth a lot but now I have the can and the cards to display.

The guy had no idea what they were so I suggested that if he opened one can and actually showed people what was inside he may sell a few more cans. I don't know if he took my advice or not. I also don't know if the complete set (22 cards) were in each can or if you had to build it like any other pack.

Keep em coming. If our customers had any idea what we were saying about them behind their backs they would never return. It may seem mean but it's all in fun and they make it soooooooo easy.


Oh, and I'm guessing from your last few posts that Danny was successfully located?

Posted by: Kmart6nets Sep 6 2012, 03:41 PM

"Do you take cash?"

Nahhhhhhhhhh I like to give the stuff away

Posted by: hugeeaglesfan Sep 9 2012, 01:10 AM

Would you be interested in an autographed Babe Ruth or Mickey Mantle baseball?


-No, man. I only collect baseball cards from 1986-1995. Sorry that I can't help you.


laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Sep 9 2012, 10:58 PM

QUOTE(hugeeaglesfan @ Sep 9 2012, 12:10 AM)
Would you be interested in an autographed Babe Ruth or Mickey Mantle baseball?
-No, man. I only collect baseball cards from 1986-1995. Sorry that I can't help you.
laugh.gif
*



The guy that actually asked me that brought in about 3 or 4 stacks of early 90s commons wrapped in rubber bands and proceeded to tell me that he had some "old ones" in there. He spread all that junk out over one of my display cases, removed a Steve Yzerman base card, because as he explained, "that was a very rare one", then he showed me the 'older" ones which included the ancient treasure of a 1991 Donruss Cecil Fielder Diamond King. Let's just say I'm not holding my breath on the Ruth/Mantle baseball. laugh.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Sep 17 2012, 11:53 AM

QUOTE(dodgerblue38501 @ Sep 5 2012, 10:34 AM)
A guy in full western gear complete with boots, hat, string tie, and handlebar mustache sauntered in and began to look around. His wife was dressed in a frilly flowing dress straight out of a 1960s western movie. I had seen this guy several times at my previous location and had been approached by him more than once to tell the same story about a bunch of wrestling magazines that he wanted to sell. Now I admit, my memory isn't as sharp as it used to be, but I remember faces and especially remember the outlandish things these people say. I mean, if you see the same person EVERY week for 10 years, don't you think you would at least recognize them? I guess I am not very memorable because several times people have approached me to tell me the exact same story as they did a couple months prior not realizing that they have talked to me several times. Then again, given the level of intellect involved in most of their stories it shouldn't surprise me I guess. It does surprise me that some of these people can actually find their way home and back again to repeat their crazy tales. The guy looked around for a minute then asked, "How much is Dan Marino?"  unsure.gif "What Dan Marino item are you asking about?" I wondered. "Rookie" the man said. "Marino's rookie card is from the 1984 Topps set. It has a book value of $60." I said. "I got one." the man firmly stated. There was a pause I assume waiting for me to applaud, high five him, or hug it out like bros. "Yeah, I have one down there in the display case labeled Football Rookie Cards." I answered. "What about Peyton Manning's rookie?" the man continued. "Peyton has probably 50 or more different rookie cards so it would depend on which one you have" I answered. "The main one" the man said.  blink.gif At this point any shred of patience I had for this ridiculously dressed individual went right out the window. "Manning's rookies range from about $10 to $1500 depending on what you have" I again continued. "Mine is from the 80s" he again stated with a poker face. "Peyton Manning was in grade school in the 80s. His first year in the NFL was 1998" I said with distain in my voice. This drew a few chuckles from some other regular customers who were browsing around the shop. The man's wife then chimed in and stated, "You really know your cards!" At that point my self esteem had never been higher. Receiving such a fine compliment from a couple of Bonanza stage hands really made my day. "Yes, I have been dealing with sports memorabilia most of my life" I affirmed to the lady. "Do you want to buy some wrestling magazines?" the man chimed in. "What era are they from?" I asked. "80s" the man deadpanned. "Most of my wrestling customers are younger kids and they only know the current stars. They don't know many of the guys from the past." I said. "That's a shame. That was back when they really 'rassled. They didn't fake it back then." the man said proving once and for all that he was in fact dilusional. "I may have to bring my cards in to sell them to you" the man said as he and his wife walked away. I can hardly wait for that money train to roll into the station. Of course, I'm sure we will have this conversation again several times before I ever see any cards from 'ol Tex.  smile.gif

*



Another weekend of wild and wooley action from the trenches of sports memorabilia sales, has come and gone. More of the same silly questions, mass produced 90s gold mines, and people trying to haggle on a $3 item.

A couple weeks ago, I shared a story about the King of the Cowboys (story quoted above) who came in and told me of all the great things he had including a Dan Marino Rookie Card and a Peyton Manning Rookie Card, his "main one", from the 1980s. Well, guess who showed up again yesterday? Yep, it was 'ole Handlebar Tex. He was similarly dressed and this time flying solo minus his wife. He strolled up to me and asked, "Do you buy cards?" mad.gif "You asked me that two weeks ago, and the answer is still the same. I am only looking for cards produced BEFORE 1980" I answered. "I did?" he acted surprised apparently not remembering our exchange. "What about Dan Marino?" he asked. I just looked at him filled with rage. "I got his rookie card" he said. "So do I" I replied. "You wouldn't buy that?" he asked again. "Not interested" I replied shortly. "I got Peyton Manning's rookie card too" he said yet again. Again I just looked at him. "I need to bring them by and maybe we can work out a deal" he said as he was walking away. "I'm pretty well stocked on Manning too" I said to the back of his head. "It's from the 80s" he said as he left the shop. "Thanks buddy" I heard him exclaim from somewhere down the aisle. I swear if this guy comes back one more time and tells me this same crap, I WILL snap. I can't take it anymore. The sheer level of stupidity and general cluelessness is getting to me. I would post a sign stating what exactly I am buying but it wouldn't do any good. I give the same answer to that stupid question EVERY time, "I'm only looking for cards produced BEFORE 1980". Everyone always says that they have some "old ones", then they roll in with 1991 Donruss commons. After years of this same nonsense, it is really wearing on me. Maybe 1 out of 5 people that I talk to has any idea about sports or collectibles. The rest are complete idiots. I have got to find a way to set up a webcam or something. Peoplel will never understand how frustrating it is unless they see it first hand. Thank goodness, I am on vacation next week. I really, really, really, really need a few days away to clear my head.

Posted by: 19th Century Indiana Jones Sep 17 2012, 01:05 PM

Complete idiots? Wait until I make a road trip to your store. Maybe I won't even tell you who I am. smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Oct 6 2012, 02:21 PM

Two weeks back after my vacation and still more of the same.
"Do I buy cards?"
"Are these cards really signed?"
"What is a Goudey Joe DiMaggio Rookie Card worth?"

Wait a minute.........what?

That is exactly what I was asked moments ago. An older gentlemen wandered in and asked me if I was selling any cards today? Even though it was none of his business, I responded with, "Yep, sure am." Then he hit me with the bomb, "How much is a Goudey Joe DiMaggio Rookie Card worth?" Now he would have to know a little something about cards to know about the Goudey brand. They aren't exactly as plentiful as early 90s commons. I told him that the value would depend entirely on the condition of the card. "I had it graded about 15 years ago" he continued. I almost fainted. Not only did he know the term Goudey but now he was talking about graded cards. Could it be too good to be true? "What did it grade?" I asked. "I don't remember" he answered. blink.gif Now wait a minute, this guy has a very rare Goudey Joe DiMaggio rookie card, he went to the trouble and expense of having it graded, and he doesn't know the grade? Maybe he has so many awesome rare vintage jewels that this card is no big deal. Maybe Joltin' Joe's rookie card is just another piece of cardboard amongst his epic collection. I just have a hard time believeing that if someone had something so rare and potentially valuable that they wouldn't have any idea what grade the card received after having it professionally graded. I mean my memory is horrible, but I'm pretty sure that little fact is something I could retain.

Before the DiMaggio debacle a guy came in and stated that he had a question. I waited patiently for the madness to ensue. "I have a collection of about 30,000 cards that i need to sell. I got them from an older man. I'm not looking to piece them out. I want to sell them all for $800." I then went on to explain that I'm only looking for card produced BEFORE 1980. He then continued about all the great cards he had, stacks and stack of Derek Jeter rookies, Alex Rodriguez rookies, and Trot Nixon whom he said "should be hot right now". That is where I cut him off. "Trot Nixon hasn't playe din the major leagues in years. He was an average player at best even in his prime" I said. "Not Trot Nixon, that guy that is so hot right now, what's his name?" he asked. Somehow I made the connection between Trot and Trout and asked, "Mike Trout?" The guy lit up with excitement. "Yeah there is a bunch of him in there" he said. He then went on to explain that this collection also had a 1991 Topps Desert Shield Chipper Jones rookie and a 1990 Topps Frank Thomas No Name on the Front rookie. Just so happens that those are two of the most rare cards from the early 90s. Of course he has them BOTH. Then he showed me his shrewd negotiating skills and said, "I only gave $100 for them all". laugh.gif Well, that takes the cake. Not only does this guy have the only desireable cards from a an entire decade but he was only trying to make a modest 800% profit off me. I told him that I don't buy large lots anymore due to the volume of cards I have in inventory and I only look for a few specific things. Then I sent him away to another guy I know that has an eBay store and is always looking for inventory. My luck the guy actually did have all that stuff. Oh well, i will still sleep tonight without all those Trot Nixon rookies. smile.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Oct 14 2012, 11:08 PM

Just checking in with a short and sweet entry this week.

A family came in that visits every few weeks. They always talk aloud to each other about all the great stuff and they always try to impress each other with their vast sports and collectibles knowledge. Today they were browsing about the shop talking about how awesome everything was and of course, not spending a dime. One of the young boys said, "Hey dad, who played for the Cowboys who had the last name Smith and wore 22?" The dad looked at his son with much disgust and snapped, "Emmitt Smith son! At least pretend that you have watched some football o.k.?" They continued to browse about and the other young boy pointed out a framed 8x10 photo of some Green Bay Packers legends. "Who is that guy?" the boy asked his dad as he pointed at the photo. The dad again seemed disgusted, rolled his eyes and replied, "That's Vince Lombardi. That is the guy they named Lambeau Field after." blink.gif ......... laugh.gif Glad the dad cleared that up for us. I'm sure their next visit will produce more great bits of wisdom and no sales......as usual. rolleyes.gif

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Oct 20 2012, 12:47 PM

Well another weekend of shop insanity is well underway. So far today I have been asked several questions, most of which we have covered in these threads many times. I did get one question from a young lady that I must say, I have never been asked in over 10 years of business in this area. She started out by asking, "You don't have any Derek Jeter cards do you?" After I assured here that I did, I got the stack of Jeter rookies from my baseball rookies display case and presented them to her. I then fetched the stack of base cards and inserts of Jeter that I have behind the counter in my star boxes. She was blown away. She took a particular liking to the Topps Gold Jeter RC that I had. Then she thought for a second and hit me with this gem, "I wish you took Wal-Mart cards because I don't have any cash". blink.gif I am continually amazed at the number of people that come into this mall, spend time looking, waste my time getting stuff for them, only to announce that they didn't bring any money with them. This literally happens a few times every weekend. Maybe I am the crazy one but if I don't have money to spend, I don't go to a store, I stay home!

Posted by: dodgerblue38501 Oct 20 2012, 04:41 PM

Another interesting exchange just overheard a few moments ago. Two guys in their 20s stopped in to look and ponder aloud the authenticity of all my PSA and JSA authenticated autographs, many of which I obtained in person doing shows for the better part of 15 years. Apparently there is only one blue sharpie in the world and I have it and I use it to forge all these signatures. I don't have a good explanation for it but the majority of autographs signed are in blue ink. It has been that way for years. Just look at some of the pack pulled autographs in your collection, the majority are signed in blue. One guy said, "I saw a thing on TV about this" gesturing toward the autographed items. "Maybe somebody carried a blue pen around with them all the time" the other guy said. People crack me up. They just can't fathom that someone who deals in sports memorabilia and has for over 20 years could have so many autographs. They crack me up.

Posted by: chopinalex May 27 2013, 05:02 PM

good to read up upon your last adventure or misadventures..funny stuff!

Powered by Invision Power Board (http://www.invisionboard.com)
© Invision Power Services (http://www.invisionpower.com)