The Donald P. Dow Collection of Lincolniana Auction (1/24/2015)

[STS Lincolnite]

I have never had much involvement with collecting of this kind due to my relatively limited funds - I have to save up money for a long time to get things I want. The time frames on this type of auction are too short for me to save up enough money - it would take me an eternity for some of this things!

Is it uncommon for people with this type of collection to have scans and high quality photographs made of the items then make them available at libraries or something for study? It would seem to be a great way to continue to enhance the historical record and really provide a legacy beyond the monetary value of the items. That being said, I can also see where some may not want to publicize what they have for fear of thievery.