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Considering Len Dykstra

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Once upon a time, Dykstra, and most Mets, signed for
super-collector Lee Harmon!

The always amazing Harvey Meiselman, our hobby’s star address list compiler, sent an update to his list purchasers of Len Dykstra’s new mailing address.

The former Met and Phillie known as “Nails” is now an inmate at a California prison.

I understand how set collectors collect. I understand about goals. A team collector may want EVERYONE’S signature.

But, does personal admiration have anything to do with a collection?

I don’t have an easy formula or litmus test. I’m unsure how to answer this question.

I’ve sought some other thoughts on the subject. I found this great 2012 essay from Matt Raymond at Autograph University.

I’ve never written to someone in prison. I did discover great discussions on www.sportscollectors.net.
Different institutions have different rules. Most are strict about not allowing SASEs, cards or Sharpies to be mailed, let alone money. Prison websites should outline policies about writing to inmates.

Readers: Are any current or former players not collectible because of their pasts?

Autograph U Yearbook: Don’t Miss It!

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From 2011: Non-signing Red Sox hurler Josh Beckett (right)
still found time for collector Matt Raymond.
(Courtesy Matt Raymond & Autograph University)

Matt Raymond is the Dean of Autograph University.

That’s Matt’s blog/website, the one I raved about at the start of 2011.

Matt has a deadline of March 31 for his first annual Autograph U Yearbook, which he promises will be a free, downloadable e-book. He’s inviting collector stories with photos.

When we share our stories in the hobby, we share our knowledge. As we look at who we are, we can see who we can be.

Everyone will rave about the idea of the e-book after it appears in May. Send in your story now. You’ll be glad you did later. Let me be the first to applause Matt’s kind gesture. I’ll be sending him my story this month. I hope you’ll add your own hobby tale, too.