Portrait of a collector

maddux69

Who was James Grant MacAlister?

Above is a link to a thread to an archived thread on net54 that I feel needs to be revived and shared. I came across the thread as I found an autograph item with "MacAlister Collection" on the flip and did some research. His story is one that I feel all collectors must read and describes his dedication, passion and genuine goodwill to help others off on their journey as collectors.

RailsideCards

THAT is a fascinating read!

maddux69

I came across an autographed card in which the flip designates it is from the Macalister collection. Although the card is not in the best shape and the autograph is a 5-6, I may purchase it purely based on provenance.

Dboneesq

Thanks for sharing. What a great post by Tom.

A few years back I purchased quite a few autographed cards from 1960 that were slabbed by PSA/DNA and were labeled from the "MacAlister Collection". I don't remember if I purchased them from eBay or they were a lot from an AH. However, I remember that I got a good buy on them and my goal was to resell for a profit. I did eventually sell them all and made a few bucks. Now that I read the story on who he was, I wish I would have saved at least one.

Ironmanfan

Back when I was in college (early 1980's), I would get his montly price list and the majority of my older Orioles 3x5's were indeed purchased from him......

IMF