I got back into cards from about 2003-2008. I collected heavily as a kid, and loved the look of the newer cards. There were so many different sets, incorporating prospects, current and older players. I blew through a ton of money on them. I still have a nice Brewers personal collection, mostly of people no longer with the team. I collected for Brewers and players I liked, not really for long term value. I sold/traded high value cards to pay for the stuff that meant something to me. I still have a nice HOF autograph collection, and some other stuff that will raise in value as older players pass on, but as a whole, my collection is pretty low end value wise. Cards are so expensive now, and like someone said, you are basically buying a box for a few "hit" cards, that may be worthless. I love the thrill of ripping packs, but I just can't justify the money. For the cost of a box, I can probably cherry pick ebay for all the cards I would have wanted.