Expensive wax, expanding sets, 1 of 1s and encapsulation may have turned some people off to the hobby, but one blogger isn't buying the gloom and doom.
Defining the hobby's heyday sort of depends on when you were born.
1950s kids remember penny packs and flipping. 1960s fans remember their cards as a sanctuary from turbulent times. In the 70s, it was all about one series, one company and one big stick of gum. The 80s and 90s brought competition, excitement and finally, a major case of overproduction.
Now, vintage memorabilia cards and fewer sets are bringing a little nostalgia back--for a price.