What is happening at York is also happening at the many "collectors" shows and flea markets I attend each year (in fact, I'm off to "The antiques capital of PA" after I type this).
1. My generation (born 1942) is the last of the avid collectors. We wanted one example of everything. If most were stored in closets, OK. Now people want just a few items in excellent condition to display.
2. From what I can see, the same number of buyers are showing up at big flea markets and shows. It's the sellers that are staying home (to sell on eBay?). There is a big flea market in PA called Shupp's Grove. 20 years ago, dealers had to arrive by 4:30 am Sunday morning to get a space. Today it is a sea of empty tables.
3. EBay has totally changed the collectors market. Look at any "price guide" published before 1998. Then compare those guides to what these items are actually selling for on eBay. I see most stuff I've collected going for half. EBay is "real world", price guides are "wishful thinking".
