Completely disagree about the impact of Pickers show ...I guess it depends on which side of the fence you're on. Has it caused prices to increase?
Sure. For those of us that built most of our collection before that show took off .... that's a good thing.
But ... with the increased valuation has also come increased awareness. I've gotten leads on stuff because people notice petro stuff more ... and I believe there's an increased appreciation for our collections from those that don't collect because they are now more aware of the value.
Some probably won't want to hear this ... but I get tired of the whining about prices being unaffordable for the 'common man'. It's never been an easy task. I've worked side jobs and bought/flipped cars and petro to buy what I wanted. Rarely have I spent household money to buy. A rising tide lifts all boats. If prices are high ... take some risks in your life, buy out a small collection and flip what you don't need to keep. It can be done.
Future of the hobby? Who knows. I personally don't believe it's topped out yet. Like most collectable markets ... it will peak and begin a downward trend. When that happens the good stuff will probably still be good ... the medium to lower end items will take the biggest hits first. That's why you buy good stuff when you can.
