Hey man! What's gotten me started on my 4 vintage sets is acquiring a big lot at once, then over the years attempting to fill it out. I'd jump on a big lot on ebay to get it kickstarted. I just did a quick search and found a few.
As for variations, I wouldn't sweat that until you completed your set. For instance, I'll most likely go after the variations for my 67 and 69 sets, but only after I complete the regular ones. For 59, I think the grey/white back challenge would be too much of a pain
Finally, for grading, I've become disenchanted with grading services as of late (big post on that coming one day.) Think about the grade this way: You know what the book value says as a start. Can you clearly see the card in question? Does it look like something you'd like to own? Would you pay what the seller is asking? If you answered yes, buy the card. If you answered no, then wait. Patience is your best bet in acquisitions. It keeps your costs and your blood pressure down.
As for variations, I wouldn't sweat that until you completed your set. For instance, I'll most likely go after the variations for my 67 and 69 sets, but only after I complete the regular ones. For 59, I think the grey/white back challenge would be too much of a pain
Finally, for grading, I've become disenchanted with grading services as of late (big post on that coming one day.) Think about the grade this way: You know what the book value says as a start. Can you clearly see the card in question? Does it look like something you'd like to own? Would you pay what the seller is asking? If you answered yes, buy the card. If you answered no, then wait. Patience is your best bet in acquisitions. It keeps your costs and your blood pressure down.
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Collecting Orioles, Ravens, and Topps Baseball sets 57, (Finally finished 58!), 67, and 69 (need only 2!). Also, MLB HOF Autos.