As the original author of this thread, I want to thank everyone who contributed to one of the most thought-provoking (and lengthy) topics we have had for quite some time.
What I learned: 1) The most rare and collectible machines will remain that way. Their value is assured. They should be the basis of your collection and your best investment. 2) Condition is very important. 3) Common machines are just that. Values may have peaked about 5 years ago. eBay has forever changed the availability and value of the more common machines. To quote one of the posts -- "Buy the best you can afford and enjoy it, its not the number you get but the quality that pays the dividends." I know we all enjoy the various facets of the hobby. As another post pointed out, we are just "caretakers" of the recordings and the machines. They are a part of our history. Thanks again to everyone, Greg Caringi