I think what as happened recently with prices is due to several factors that have all came to pass at the same time. One thing you have to remember is that the very nature of collectables contributes to their appreciation. They aren't making any more Neptune L-1 or Wayne 80 pumps or Parco gas globes. If only a few people want these items, their value is going to be what the person that wants them the most would give for them. But, if there are 500 people who want them, there is bound to be two or three folks that will give much more than the rest so their value escalates exponentially. Enter venues like EBay and the vast exposure that the Internet gives and this whole thing grows faster than ever thought possible. Add the fact that more and more people who have money to invest are now fed up with the stock market, real estate, and low interest on cash and now you have an influx of money into a collectors market that used to be our "hobby". Will it peak at some point and fall back to what it once was? I don't think so. It will fluctuate, sure. But this hobby is fast becoming a business investment for a lot of people with more than enough money to keep the prices rising for a long time. You can still make good buys and there will always be deals out there, but you will have to be on your toes if you want to be the guy that gets first fruits. To me, it makes it sweeter to find a real buy on a piece that you know is really going to hold its value, let alone appreciate. Now more than ever patience is a virtue that will reward you if you can hold out for that special piece you've always wanted until it comes along at a good price, or even comes along at all.......
