Eric, I disagree with the idea that the large cheap lots on eBay are junk. They are cheap and very common but they are an inexpensive way to start off. Begin with cheap common notes and later if you discover note collecting just isn’t for you then you have not invested a great deal into it and won’t feel like you have wasted a lot of money. DO NOT COLLECT FOR INVESTMENT until you are a very seasoned collector, begin with a wide assortment of notes you do not see every day. As time goes on you will find certain niches that interest you more than others. Start with a simple goal- a handful of cool notes to show friends. Learn a little about them than maybe set your goal a bit higher- one note from every country. By then you will know if you want to peruse it further and if you have a real long-term interest.

Be careful on eBay as it is usually overpriced. On lots try and stay at or under 50¢ per note- at that price some will be over priced and some will be under priced but at 50¢ per note you are pretty safe. Once you begin filling up with cheap notes and you still like it, increase your budget a little. Remember, you will NEVER acquire all the notes you want because some will be too elusive, and other too expensive- AND don’t get in a hurry- ENJOY the pursuit and learning about them.

Send me your address and I will start you off with a few “JUNK NOTES” (free of course) hehehe

Mike