Aeclectic Tarot Forum - Best Bargains

Gerbear

20-09-2003, 08:00

Most of us are always on the lookout for a bargain. What is your best bargain find in a tarot deck?
Just last month, I was thinking about a bookstore I used to frequent in the sixties. I did a search and found out that they are now online. I found the site and was amazed to see the Gilgamesh Tarot listed. This is a handmade, OOP gem. The price was fourteen dollars. So I ordered it and waited. The next day, I received a call from the store telling me that it was there last copy and that it was kind of beat up. If I still wanted it, they would sell it for seven dollars! When it arrived, the cards were
in excellent shape. It came in a plastic bag which was at the worst, a little smudged. That's my bargain find. How about yours?

Woof

20-09-2003, 09:02

Got an excellent condition copy of the POMO at Bookmans (AZ used book store) for $15. Got Tarot for Cats in the clearance section of Borders a number of years ago for under $10. Otherwise I've gotten good prices at Overstock.com.
Woof

Ruby Red Slippers

20-09-2003, 09:58

So.............. Gerbear

Will you share the website? Often these places have great esoteric "stuff" too.

I've gotten great deals at Halp-Price bookstore here in town.
I can find decks there for 6.95 sometimes!

pentunen

20-09-2003, 10:22

I think the best bargain I've ever gotten was the Medicine Woman tarot. It's a used copy I found in one of the bargain bookstores that are scattered around London, and while the cards were out of order in the box, they're all there and in excellent condition. I managed to get it for £2. O.O

- pentu

Gerbear

20-09-2003, 11:02

Originally posted by Ruby Red Slippers
So.............. Gerbear
Will you share the website? Often these places have great esoteric "stuff" too.

Sure, the site is the Bodhitree Bookstore at Http://bodhitree.com/

baba-prague

20-09-2003, 12:22

Okay, everyone will hate me for this, but my best bargain is walking into a junk shop here in Prague (NOT an antique shop - a kind of secondhand place) and finding a Slovakian deck of Majors from the 1980s for about $6!

I've never seen another like it. It must be very rare. I also like it very much. It has a slightly hand-made feel, in as much as the gold inking on it is wearing off, as though it was applied by hand.

Anyway - these things only happen once (well, I can always hope it could happen again :-) )

truthsayer

20-09-2003, 12:37

six years ago, i found a copy of tarot for cats at a barnes and noble for $6. now i've seen it as high as $50+ at ebay.

Diana

20-09-2003, 12:37

baba-prague: Would it be possible for you to scan a couple of those cards (including the Magician please!) so we can see them?

baba-prague

20-09-2003, 13:41

"Tarot for Cats"? Don't - please. You know, I walked past it at my local bookshop several times and thought "No, I don't want that". Then, a couple of years later (as in a fortnight ago) I end up buying it at Abebooks and having it shipped to Prague!
Kicking myself? You bet!

Anyway, yes, here is one of the Slovak cards. I have the ones already on our site to hand. I can add more - or scan in The Magician too, but maybe not just yet (we are a bit busy). Is it a bit off-thread too? We could always begin a thread if this is of real interest.

They are a little like lots of things - but not exactly like any deck I know. As I say, there is gold paint on them, but very worn now. They are largish.

Logiatrix

20-09-2003, 15:05

My finds:
Jungian deck/book set---> $15
Healing Earth deck/book set---> $15
PoMo deck/book set---> $10

Then there's been free stuff :D :
At one of my most favorite haunts, the proprietor gave me the Mah-Jong Fortunetelling Cards for free, just because she couldn't find a listing for it in her records. She has since saved several of her display copies of tarots to give me, when she no longer sells them, or wants to display different ones.
Another store owner gave me a copy of Linda Goodman's Star Cards, just because I bring people to her store (she doesn't know that I cast spells on them }) ).
A cool thing happened to me at Bookstar, with the Minchiate book by Brian Williams. It got seperated from the cards, which were nowhere to be found. I asked the manager if he could sell it seperately, and he said that it did not list a price code by itself.
Then he said, "So, I guess it's yours. Take it. I'm not gonna sell it, so you might as well take it." (!!!)
:)

Emily

20-09-2003, 18:19

I think my best find was on holiday in Wales last year. I wondered into this bargain bookshop and saw sitting on the shelf the Enchanted tarot (the large Zerner Farber) complete with book. It was the last one on the shelf and I managed to get to it before another customer who was making a beeline for it lol.
I'd been looking at the small Zerner Farber online before I went away on holiday so I happily bought this one for £7.99. I'm not sure what it sells for now but I know I got a bargain. :)

MoreMagic

20-09-2003, 18:46

Last summer I went into a giant Barnes and Noble just to browse, and on one of the many sale tables I found 11 copies of my favorite deck, the Aquarian Tarot. They were new and sealed, marked half off, then 75% off of the half, then covered with a "special discount" sticker. I took six decks (don't ask me why I didn't take them all, I don't know) to the check-out counter, and after the sales clerk scanned them, I ended up paying nine dollars for all of them. I ran out of there as if I'd stolen them! :-) When I went back a few days later, the decks were freshly marked at $15.00 a piece, sitting demurely on the shelf with the rest of the new decks. Well, at least now all my best Tarot friends have a copy of my favorite deck, and I have one for back-up. Serendipity???

Marie

20-09-2003, 23:06

I found a Motherpeace round deck at a thrift store here for $2.00 once!! It has suck a nice loved kind of vibe.
I recently found a Frouds Fairy Oracle for $1.50. No book or box, just the cards and they are pretty worn. They don't have as good a vibe plus oracles just don't do much for me these days. Still a good bargain! And the art is excellent, I have been a fan of the Froud's art, oh, since I was a teenager.

Vita Dolce,
Marie

arcanalefait

21-09-2003, 15:53

Just saw a Shakespearian on sale on Amazon.com's used item list for about 15 dollars--if anyone's interested, check it out!

Chronata

21-09-2003, 16:51

My best bargains have been Garage sales in the past...that's where my Tarot of Southwest Sacred Tribes, Tarot Balbi, 1JJ Swiss, Hoi Polloi...and a few others came from. I paid anywhere from 50 cents to a dollar a deck...but that was back when they were not Out Of Print!

Recently,I found the Tarot of Baseball in a close-out store for $1.50. It has since become one of my favorite decks...so I went back and bought the last four copies they had!

But ...a friend of mine has me beat...he works for a comic store and found an un-opened copy of the 1st edition Vertigo in the back room about a month ago....his boss sold it to him for $5.

Demonesse

21-09-2003, 17:11

MoreMagic, that is simply amazing! :D

lawguy51

21-09-2003, 18:18

Best deal? Free. Quest Tarot came in a symposium loot bag. So did a strange major only deck from Italy, forget what it's called and don't want to get up to look!

Lawguy51

Melvis

21-09-2003, 20:17

Excellent thread idea, Gerbear! We all know the Tarotholic in us just loves to brag about the deals we've gotten! :D

Just last month, within a couple weeks of each other, I found both the Norse Tarot and the Greenwood Tarot for less than $14.00 each at Half-Price Books. I was VERY excited, to say the least!

And I got both the Healing Earth and the PoMo tarots from used bookstores very early in my tarot-collecting career, before I knew how rare they were.

Peace,

Melvis
:TSTRE

Voodoo_Shaman

23-09-2003, 16:38

Hello Every one. my greatest find was in a flea market, and I came along a boxed set of the Tarot of the Saints, for 5 bucks. I almost had a heart attack as I quiuckly grabbed it. The book that comes with the deck is amazing, and the biblical tales really go well. I use it alot, with Hispanics who find confort in the images of the Saints. Anyway, the box was opened, the deck was looked at, but in perfect condition, the book was barely touched. I saved about 30.00.

Cerulean

24-09-2003, 00:59

1. If you know the author, sometimes you can find a book or deck somewhere in a different area, even a different country for a reasonable price. I never found a Folchi or well-known tarot artist or author for a less expensive price, but the smaller press versions emerge in used bookstore listings.

Used bookstores or friends that haunt independent 'metaphysical' or 'used' bookstores in certain areas can yield finds. A local used bookstore yielded a 1980's reissue of Tarot Balbi, a Marseilles variant, and a black and white pop tarot (20th Century) for less than $10.00. I found a French translation of the Oswald Wirth's book and the majors reissued in an anniversary edition for the same price...but this is over eight to ten months of looking periodically.

2. From a Minneapolis friend: they had a few oop European (Masonic/Ashkroft-Norwicki's Shakespeare) tarot kits for about $25.00 earlier this year:

http://www.magusbooks.com/main/

3. Gerbear meantioned the Bodhi Tree bookstore, which my sister took me to when I visited her area. Also in Southern California, at least last year, a small retail chain in California called the Psychic Eye had stores in San Francisco, Mountain View, and one or two down in the coastal cities...Redondo or Hermosa Beach?

I don't know if it still exists, because one of the local Northern Cal stores closed...and they used to carry AGMueller titles. The area code was 310 if you live in Southern California...

4. Sometimes local Borders, Barnes and Noble and regional bookstores carry artists and authors titles...Guardians of Wisdom is regional to Monterey, Ca., for instance...but it can be luck of the draw.

I found a very funky, not especially recommended "Love is the Earth" tarot is regional to some of the Southern Cal beach cities. The box had the best collage samples on the cover. It was very lucky for me that someone had a sick friend who liked that sort of thing, because it wasn't worth the weight it added to my luggage, for me.

Happy hunting, hope some of these yield finds!

Mari H.

baba-prague

24-09-2003, 07:14

Oh - reading the previous message makes me remember that I got an unopened Rohrig in the local secondhand bookshop for abuot $8 (equivalent). The man who runs the shop just wanted someone to buy it - he usually deals in much more historical books.

I have to admit, I am not mad on the Rohrig, so this one may come up for trade sometime (but I do want to look through it).

catlin

24-09-2003, 07:58

One of my best finds was the Engel-Tarot by Alois Hanslian (oop) for about 8$.

It was in a shop which usually does not sell tarot decks, only fantasy books and role-play stuff.

zagone

25-09-2003, 00:08

I picked up Enchanted Tarot and its book new for $9.00 online once. It was a real deal because the book was hardback and fullcolor -- the best quality deck book I have seen.

I picked up Tarot of the Old Path used off eBay for around $7.00. Which is not that far below the new cost, but this let me get one of the old decks with the silver glowing eyes they don't paint on the newer decks.

-- Zagone

All Is One

25-09-2003, 14:12

The Enchanted Tarot set was about $32.00 in this fancy gift shop in Cambria when I got it back in 1994. It's true - the hdbk book is beutifully done. Lucky you. I have found very few real bargains... but several of my decks are oop now and I saw one of my very favorites, The Magickal Tarot listed used by an Amazon seller for over 100.00 about a year ago. (I got it for Xmas when the bookcase box set was selling for about $30.00. ) I would love to find better bargains - following this thread and taking notes.

Gerbear

02-10-2003, 22:21

I was traveling throigh the Inland Empire, when I saw a New Age store with a 'sale' sign. The stores' lease is almost up and they decided not to renew. I headed straight for the Tarot section, but it had been gone over pretty good. However back in the corner of one shelf was a Norse Tarot, complete, but looking rather tattered around the box. The manager said I could have it for Ten dollars. I hesitated for a few nanoseconds and scooped it up. I thought it would qualify for this thread.

Asher

05-10-2003, 22:48

I haunt all the used bookstores I can find, both at home and when travelling. I live about 5 blocks from the largest one and am there at least 3-4 times a week. Everything is 1/2 price (it's not Half-Price Books, though, just a local operation) and I have gotten some great deals.

For example, a signed and numbered Tarot of Napoleon ($10), the Prediction tarot ($5), Anthony Clark's Magickal Tarot ($15), the Healing Earth Tarot ($10), the Necromantic ($10) and the Hoi Polloi ($10). I also pick up 2nd copies of decks as mine wear out (though not great bargains, still 1/2 price).

When I still lived back east, the manager of a shop I was reading at gave me a Sheridan-Douglas deck for $15! I held my breath and kept my cool till I got to my car.

My best _bargain_ was getting all 3 Gomi decks in a trade for a deck that I only paid $10 for -- an ugly Tarot Acquario (very rare but I never liked it, so happy with the trade).

I love finding these gems, though you need to be patient and shop often.

Asher

Gerbear

05-10-2003, 23:02

A Necromantic for $10? That's great. And that 'ugly' deck went for more then the three Gomi decks combined, recently on ebay. I say that, because I found a source for the Gomi decks at $35 each. When you are ready to get rid of some excess decks, please visit our trading forum :)

bighairymonster

06-10-2003, 05:48

I got an Osho Zen for free from Amazon. *scratches head in bewilderment* I ordered a book and paid for the book, but then I got the book AND Osho.....checked my bank statements. Nope, they didn't charge me for it. E-mailed Amazon about it. Apparently they've got bad customer service 'coz they sure didn't reply.

One of the cards is bent, but that's alright I suppose. It's not like I'm going to use them. :)

lark

07-10-2003, 11:17

Some of my biggest tarot bargains have come from edwardrhamilton.com Click on View new Subject List Click on Tarot And BANG you're there. A few examples of what there today. Light and Shadow Tarot $7.95 Celtic Wisdom $10.95 Tao Oracle $12.95 Tarot of the Spirit $12.95 Instant Tarot Reader the small version of the Enchanted Tarot $7.95. I could go on and on. Also a great selection of books on tarot. Rachel Pollack's two books on the Handl deck are going for $4.95 for majors and $2.95 for minors. What a deal! All shipping is $3.50 no matter how much you order. Glad to share this info. with all my new taroholic friends.

Emily

07-10-2003, 11:39

Hi Lark, welcome to the Aeclectic :)
There are some real bargains to be had there, wish they'd ship out of the States :)

All Is One

07-10-2003, 15:01

Thanks and welcome to Lark...
This we need more of!
Not just great bargains to drool over that were once in a lifetime finds but good sources!

Yay! I will be looking there later, and great shipping prices always knock my socks off.

Asher - You are one of the only people I know who has the Magickal Tarot (Clarke) which is one of my all time favorite decks (not for reading for others, but for working with) How do you like it?

Apparently it is OOP now? I have one copy with small book and the full book by Willis. Hoping to get an extra copy for a friend.

Asher

07-10-2003, 18:44

The Magickal Tarot is not one that I actively _use_. It's mainly a study deck for me, comparing it with the Thoth and now I can even compare it with the new Via.

But the artwork is very compelling and I do love to look at it. I have never read with it, and not sure if I could read it well. I used to have Tony Willis' full book, but didn't care for his writing much, although the book that comes with the deck is fine.

Asher

All Is One

07-10-2003, 22:00

What is the "Via" I would like to take a look... and, yes, the Thoth and the Magickal are definite partners, The M is like a tribute to the Thoth.

Asher

08-10-2003, 07:54

The Via is a newly published (in English) deck by Susan Jameson and John Bonner, put out by Urania.

According to the box, this deck "deliberately picks up the thread of the famous Thoth Tarot deck...and draws on cabbalistic, alchemistic, astrological and magical sources."

It's quite lovely, and a good study partner for the Magickal and Thoth.

I got mine from Joan Bunning's site, learntarot.com (if I remember correctly). Very worth having if you're into the Thoth.

Asher

All Is One

08-10-2003, 10:44

Just the sort of deck I am always looking for, thanks for the info...off to check it out :)

Cerulean

08-10-2003, 22:40

I bought it on Amazon.com for $10.00.
Um, it was on Amazon.com for $10.00 listed as a kit. The ISBN was the right one for the deck (I checked other sites) and the picture was near perfect for that deck. I bought it for $10.00 and choose expedited shipping thru Amazon.com, as all I had was an email available. Later, the seller gave me her name and telephone number.

If I'm lucky, it will have all 78 cards as well as the 39 page booklet. Only one other time did I buy a used Symbolon deck at Amazon.com and the booklet was faulty...

Sasha Fenton has about 61 titles available on Amazon.com and much more on Abebooks.com...and the publishers for her various editions for her books/decks start with the Aquarian to Sterling reprints, etc...

I found the earlier 1985 related Sasha Fenton book titles with black and white illustrations, hopefully, distributed by Sterling in the U.S. circa 1985. These releases available from $1.00 for a spoiled copy through $63.00 from the original Aquarian Press edition. I bought the $5.00 1985 near fine copies from Abebooks.com, with the old illustrations.

Good hunting,

Mari Hoshizaki

Melvis

09-10-2003, 21:09

Mari, that is so cool! It always surprises me but once in a while the Amazon resellers have a good deal. I just ordered the Kazanlar from someone there for only twenty-some dollars. And I did what you did, Mari -- I checked the ISBN number with other websites and it does seem to really be the deck & book set! Wow!

Maybe it has something to do with the full moon...people offering good deals on very rare decks because they've been subtly affected by those tidal forces! ;)

One other place I find good deals (and a few rare decks) is at Magus Books (http://www.magusbooks.com). But if you're not in Minnesota (as most of your are not, of course!) I highly suggest that you call them if you have a particular rare deck you're looking for. They often have one-sies and two-sies of unusual decks and especially books that aren't listed on their website. That's where I recently got the signed limited edition of the Australian Contemporary Dreamtime Tarot. (http://www.tarotpassages.com/ausdreamtime-MM.htm) Yes, I believe I actually drooled when I saw that one in the case.

Peace,

Melvis
:TSTRE

Riversea

25-11-2003, 02:37

My best bargins have been Songs for the Journey Home for $29 (with extra gifts no less!)

Also, I was given a whole box of tarot decks from a friend thinning her collection last June. In it... hold on to your hats... the Greenwood! So, I was gifted with the Greenwood. That has to be my best bargin.

I guess also the fact that I have a 1st ed. Vertigo at the issue price of $50. At the time (1995), it didn't seem like a bargin, but time has made it into one.

firestorm

25-11-2003, 13:21

Well, I don't know if it would be considered a bargain, but I did get the Light and Shadow for 9.99. That's the least I've paid for a tarot deck. I'm absolutely envious at some of the bargains listed here!

Strange2

25-11-2003, 13:59

The best bargain finds I have made were for the Hermetic Tarot for $16 (including shipping), and the Greenwood Tarot for $28 (including shipping). Both of these are now out of print and difficult to find at any price.

SherryZoned

25-11-2003, 14:14

Dont know if it has been mentioned..

Buy.com
and
walmart.com

have some decent buys on non-rare decks.

Riversea

25-11-2003, 15:17

I also picked up a brand-new Osho Transformational at an Outlet store for $6, Medicine Cards for $7, and a new Intuitive Solutions pack for $2.50.

I haven't looked much at the I.S. yet, but for $2.50 my curiosity got the better of me. It's by the same people who did Angel Cards. In fact, it seems to include a deck of Angel Cards.

Gerbear

25-11-2003, 19:13

Fifty dollars is not usually a bargain price, but when it buys a Minotarot, I think it qualifies. I was just signing on to ebay and checking the new listings. There was a Minotarot with a buy-it-now price of $49.99. I stared at it for a few seconds, and scooped it up. I must have been the first person to see it, because I've seen this deck go for up to $450 on ebay. So this bargain was part luck!

Moonbow*

26-11-2003, 15:09

My best bargain has got to be the Greenwood for £6. No box or LWB but cards in perfect condition and I managed to print alot of info off Chesca Potters site as the cards are slightly different and in different order to the norm. Lovely deck, I must have another look at it!!!

Moonbow*

Cerulean

26-11-2003, 15:14

November:
Vampire Tarot by Joseph Vargo at tarotgarden.com...V sale discount.

I received it within three days...oh my!

December:
People were kind enough not to bid too high against me when slightly used the Dal Negro's oversized Visconti came up...I obtained it for twenty dollars, including shipping. Really nice reproduction and excellent quality. Slight marr on box only and no delay in shipping. A dream E-bay deal...

Mari H.

Le_Corsair

26-11-2003, 15:29

I found a Hoi Polloi set on Ebay offered with the "Buy It Now" option set at $5.99 US! I just received it today-- deck unused, LWB, and original packaging. I think I scored the bargain of November!

Bob :THERM

Gerbear

04-12-2003, 20:23

About two weeks ago, I was watching ebay when a Stick Figure Tarot popped up with a buy-it-now price of $20. As with the Minotarot, I had to rub my eyes, take a deep breath and hit the button. I searched for a nice bag, and with a total investment of less than thirty dollars, I now have a Stick Figure Tarot.

SherryZoned

04-12-2003, 21:03

Wow Gerbear!!!! Congrats!!

Cerulean

04-12-2003, 21:27

Was there a book?

Mari H.

Kiama

05-12-2003, 06:40

My best bargain was when a friend gave me the Hermetic Tarot by Godfrey Dawson for free... He didn't get on with Tarot and knew I did. :D

I found the Shakespearian Tarot by Nowicki a few years ago on sale for £7.99, and the PoMo for £20 (In England, that's quite cheap for a deck/book set.)

I also recently purchased the Ravenswood Eastern Tarot from Amazon for £6.99, though haven't received it yet. :(

Kiama

Le_Corsair

05-12-2003, 08:18

Originally posted by Mari_Hoshizaki
Was there a book?

Mari H.

Mari, the book that accompanied the package is more like a pamphlet; it is larger than the standard LWB, its dimensions are 8.5" long by 5.19 high. (213mm x 136mm). It is 36 pages long, and is made like a magazine, paper folded in half and stapled along the spine. You can see a picture of the whole package here. (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2966668352&category=19271&rd=1) The book describes several spreads, then shows b/w pictures of each card, with divinatory meanings, 3 cards per page.

Bob :THERM

note: the link shown above is an ebay link and will not remain active on a long-term basis.

raeanne

05-12-2003, 09:29

Hi all,
The best bargin I ever found was the one and only Tarot for Cats. It was at my local half priced book store for $5 USD except I was there on a special half price day so I only paid $2.50 USD! They only had the one copy or I would have bought more! I was so thrilled that I forgot to stop and get groceries on the way home! I guess that shows my priorities - Tarot first and then food! HA, HA, HA!

VGimlet

06-12-2003, 14:14

I've gotten some good bargains here and there, the PoMo for 20.00 (still in the packaging) from a seller on Amazon.com, the Greenwood (with the book and box) for 40.00 on half.com. The Itarocki for 3.00 plus shipping on ebay. I keep my eye out for good deals, because it's fun.

And I love the discount from Tarot Garden when I pre-order new decks. :D

Gerbear

20-07-2004, 19:21

I thought I'd bump this thread, since I have an addition to it. Late last night, while on ebay, I came across a buy-it now auction for $18.85. The deck was the Servants of the Light Tarot deck and book! Just one of those things. Btw, it took me all of two nanoseconds to buy it. LOL

lunakasha

20-07-2004, 19:36

My best tarot find ever was the Greenwood deck/book set, brand new, for $32.00 (list price) at a local metaphysical store....this after searching for over a year and watching it go for over $100 on ebay!!! I was definitely in the right place at the right time....

:) Luna

fyreflye

20-07-2004, 20:37

Well, obviously the best bargain I've ever found was the Book of Aradia Tarot that I traded here recently. Copies of this early '80's self-published (1000 copies) feminist b & w Majors-only deck went for $233.50 and $128 most recently on eBay, but I found a near-mint copy priced at $10 in a local used bookstore. I felt so guilty at profiting from someone's ignorance that rather than selling it I traded it for a Servants of the Light card/book set I'd long wanted but kept losing to higher bidders on eBay. I've also found the William Blake set almost new and autographed by Ed Buryn at the same store for $16 but I doubt I'll ever beat the Aradia find. I do keep dropping by that store, though :D

rabble

26-08-2004, 18:34

I think my bargain arrived in the mail this morning! I bought the Tarot Balbi on ebay, for the equivalent of about US$15.

This is my first more "traditional" deck, and the colours and artwork are stunning!

Alta

26-08-2004, 19:08

I purchased, and just received yesterday, a Norse tarot, in original box with book on eBay with Buy-it-Now for $15.

Gerbear

26-08-2004, 19:38

Once again, I found a buy-it-now bargain on ebay. The Necromantic Tarot usually goes for over $200 in bidding, but I found a copy for $39.95.

TygrEyes

26-08-2004, 20:33

I couple of weeks ago I got a Decameron for $1. The shipping was $4 or $5, but the deck was a deal!

magpie9

27-08-2004, 03:29

there's this little used bookstore around the corner.....where I found like-new copies of the Greenwood for $10., and Servants of the Light at $20. I've found other good buys there and elsewhere--a PoMo on ebay for $7., but those 2 are my absolute best bargins.
So far. :D

Alta

27-08-2004, 09:08

sniff, I am sorry to say that I have found very few 'deals' in my tarot-buying career. When I was on Vancouver Island, I got up the courage (laugh if you will, I find it hard) to ask in a used bookstore if they had used decks. They had one, a Grimaud Grand Ettellia for $75 Cdn. It was old, and the cards were very thick and in good shape. I didn't buy it. Can anyone tell me if I was a fool and should have snapped it up? Also they had a battered copy of The Tarot of the Bohemians for $6.75 Cdn, which I also did not buy because frankly I doubted that I would ever be able to understand it. I suppose someone is going to tell me that goes for $200 a pop on eBay too. ????

blue_fusion

27-08-2004, 12:24

Originally posted by Gerbear
Once again, I found a buy-it-now bargain on ebay. The Necromantic Tarot usually goes for over $200 in bidding, but I found a copy for $39.95.

the Necromantic?!!! dang. i envy you BIG time...

Cerulean

28-08-2004, 03:22

since Lo Scarabeo published versions of the Jeu de Princesse (Esoteric Ancient Tarots), and Jeu des Dames (Book of Thoth) for about $15-20. I've seen the Grimaud Grand Etteilla at Tarotgarden.com and Alida.com for thirty-five or less...althoug h at R. Somerville, looks like $20.00 or so (if you figured about two U.S. dollars per one British pound in old currency).

Tarot of Bohemians in paperback can start about five to seven dollars at abebooks.com and at used bookstores

I bought or priced both this year...when I started looking, I also assumed because the Grimaud wasn't being shipped directly to the U.S, it might be expensive elsewhere

Regards,

Cerulean

Trogon

28-08-2004, 08:28

Hmmm... well... I've picked up a few used decks for a few dollars here and there. Mostly pretty good bargains I think. But the deck I was happiest to get at the price I did was the Röhrigh Tarot. I'd been looking at it at a local new-age shop. I kept going back and forth (should I buy it? Maybe not... it's $25 (USD) and money's tight. Then again, I really like the deck... But my wife will kill me... ;) ). Then, after a few weeks of this, I went back and it was on sale... marked down to $15 (USD)... I quit waffling and bought it. :D

The 78th Fool

31-08-2004, 18:42

Mint condition James Bond 007 Tarot Deck off ebay for $12

Excellent condition Universal Books Rider Waite Tarot for $8 off ebay as well!

Two of my favourite decks in excellent condition. Couldn't believe my luck!

Chris. xx

Sulis

01-09-2004, 08:35

Just got the Hoi Polloi for £6.99 off e-bay. I know this deck doesn't go for much but it's still a bargain :)

Love

Sulis xx

SongDeva

01-09-2004, 11:36

In the last couple of weeks I've purchased:

Dreampower set #2 for $24.95. (I got them both at this price!)

Folchi Sissi deck for $24.95
Folchi Tarot for $9.99

A Grimaud Marseilles for $14.99

All on eBay.

Gerbear

04-10-2004, 09:25

This morning I won the Granny Jones Australian Tarot on ebay for $55. Not exactly cheap, but I've never seen this deck go for less than two hundred, usually three, so I'm content.

rabble

04-10-2004, 19:11

Originally posted by SongDeva
Folchi Sissi deck for $24.95

I'm envious! The Sissi is gorgeous!!

SongDeva

05-10-2004, 08:28

Originally posted by rabble
I'm envious! The Sissi is gorgeous!!

Thank you!

I suppose I should add the Tarot di Colombo for $29.99,
just to make Gardner mad.

MoonMaiden

06-10-2004, 16:05

I got my Celtic Tarot deck and book by Julian de Burgh and artist Mary Guinan for $4 at the library book sale. I can't tell it from new.

SongDeva

06-10-2004, 16:35

Awesome! I run out library book sale, and this year I did find a [i]really[i] old Zolar's Deck.

Hope I find more, and congratulations on your great find!

FantasyWorld

26-10-2004, 14:05

http://www.discountnewagebooks.com/
The above site has fairy good prices, I have bought from them before.

I got my Tarot for Cats on Ebay a few years ago for about $10. I got my Fey Tarot on Amazon for 20.37 reduced from 29.95, kept watching and they reduced it,Yepee. I have a few other bargins here and there but mostly paid Too much for some like my Vertigo 1st Edition on Ebay several years ago, a whopping $105,EGAD!

Alanna

sungoddess

29-10-2004, 10:44

I just got The Tarot of the Orishas for $11, and the Tarot of Cassanova for $11.99 on Ebay.

That was pretty cool... I also got a copy of Tarot Sutra for like £3.99 a couple of months back in a Bargain Books on Charing Cross Road, in London that has since gone out of business.

Cariad

29-10-2004, 12:26

Just believe I got a great bargain on e-bay for £12.20 Ancien Taro de Marseille B.P.Grimaud in excellent condition in their original box.
Also MYTHIC TAROT for £4.00.

I actually dont care if they were a bargain or not I really enjoy the cards and the bidding if truth be known!

Love B

Tarot Sparrow

29-10-2004, 17:26

Best deal for me so far was the New Palladini tarot, on sale at Hastings for $12. Not bad.

Cerulean

30-10-2004, 22:51

from Delores Ashkroft Nowicki was a great deal at a used bookstore, even if the book was slightly dinged in the corners and the cards had slight scratches...but I looked around and my jaw dropped to find a $14.00 listing for the book and deck set...and as this is my husband's favorite deck, I'm wanting a set to use for myself, even if out of print.

The listing was on amazon.com.

I'll be able to say in a few days if it's the same condition and has all cards as my $20.00 set. But this is a great find for me!

Cerulean

P.S. The seller just confirmed she will be shipping it in the original box. If you do amazon.com, there is an option to email the seller...sometimes it takes an hour or longer for the listing to disappear from the amazon.com database and the seller to acknowledge receipt.

So I posted to the seller and even if it was Saturday evening/Sunday morning, I received the acknowledgement of payment, shipment expectation and the listing disappeared---of course I waited until it disappeared and I received acknowledgement before I posted here!

MSC

31-10-2004, 05:22

Originally posted by Gerbear
Sure, the site is the Bodhitree Bookstore at Http://bodhitree.com/

Well, thanks! I've visited the site and they have lots of tarot jewels!

northsea

02-11-2004, 02:26

Universal RWS deck/book , used copy on Ebay, $4 inc. shipping

Gerbear

26-11-2004, 13:22

I just got a 1st editoin copy of the Mountain Dream deck for $15.50, which is somewhat less than the going price on ebay. (about $80-100)

FantasyWorld

26-11-2004, 13:27

You were the one!!!
Arggghh!
I was also bidding on that. I put in a higher bid but didn't get it in on time...my bust!!!
Enjoy your bargin:)

Ruby7

26-11-2004, 13:36

I just got a 1st editoin copy of the Mountain Dream deck for $15.50, which is somewhat less than the going price on ebay. (about $80-100)

I saw that too and thought it couldn't be right!! Congratulations Gerbear, glad I didn't bid :). I restrained myself because it is not one of my favourite decks and I keep telling myself that I am not a collector and it would have been purely a collector's purchase (which cheap as it is I can't afford right now). You on the other hand are indeed a collector so once again congratulations :)

All the best,
Ruby7

HudsonGray

26-11-2004, 15:36

There were several Aquarian decks going for less than $2 the other day on eBay, some with just a few hours left, some with a day or two to go. Surprisingly there's not many bids on tarot decks this past week. I know the Aquarian isn't an OOP but a nice used deck would make a good Xmas present.

Lee

06-12-2004, 14:29

Today I got a new, sealed copy of the Cary-Yale Visconti deck (it's BIG!), $12 at a used bookstore (Bookman's).

-- Lee

The 78th Fool

06-12-2004, 17:36

Today I got a new, sealed copy of the Cary-Yale Visconti deck (it's BIG!), $12 at a used bookstore (Bookman's).

-- Lee

You lucky Sod! The best my local second hand shops would ever carry would probably be Miss Cleo!

Chris. xx

Lurea

08-12-2004, 17:20

I know a few people have these on their wish list.

Here is a copy on eBay, and the opening bid is only $1.99!

Inner Child Cards listing (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=5542101573&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT)

Gerbear

08-12-2004, 18:20

I managed to win a Tarot des Mages foe a mere $35, or about one fourth of the normal going price on ebay. It helped that the auction was based in France.

EarthAngel2911

08-12-2004, 20:50

I've had two excellent buys that are worth mentioning. A few years ago, I was desperately searching for the 1st ed. Rock & Roll Tarot. My last resort was to contact the artist and beg him for any left over decks he might have had laying around. In fact, he did. It was opened and wasn't numbered, but it was complete and in perfect shape. $25.

Then a year ago, I was searching for Arnell Ando's Transformational Tarot, which of course had been OOP for quite a while. At the time they were going for well over $100 on eBay. I just happened to find a listing on Amazon's marketplace for the original retail price of something like $25. I though it had to be a mistake... was probably just the book, but I wanted that anyway. Turns out it was the complete deck! I had never felt so lucky!

HudsonGray

14-12-2004, 02:19

I walked into the local Half Price Bookstore today and was surprised to see they'd gotten a shipment of multiple decks. All of them were new/sealed in plastic.

Ship of Fools (book & deck) $9.98
World Spirit (book & deck) $9.98
Enochian (just deck) $9.98
Shining Tribe book/deck $9.98
Pythagorian Tarot (book/deck) $14.98
Rune Magic Cards (cards only) $4.98
Egyptian Scarab Oracle box set $9.98
Egyptian Pyramid Oracle (book/deck) $7.98
and one used copy Goddess Oracle, boxed set, not shrink wrapped $12.98

I NEVER see 'stacks' of these things at this store so I figure they got some warehouse closeouts. If anyone has a really strong interest in any of them, I can buy & ship them to you if I get reimbursed the cost & shipping.

(Updated with all the decks the store is carrying 12/14/04).

Asradel

04-04-2006, 02:39

to date my best bargain purchase was a Hoi Polloi deck in great condition complete with the title and "key" cards for $6.25 on ebay! :)

I'm very happy with them. They are so hippy and cool looking - and just the perfect size in the hand. I like the keys on the back too.

They just came in today and I had to tell SOMEONE!

Bright blessings,

Az

Xarokys

04-04-2006, 05:53

My best bargain so far was a Servants of the Light tarot deck for $3.50 plus shipping on ebay. No box or book, just the deck. The seller didn't use its name in the listing and the picture was fuzzy. I was the only bidder. :) Now I'm trying to find the book to go with it.

SongDeva

04-04-2006, 09:04

femalegamer

04-04-2006, 13:01

I bought approx two dozen Miss Cleo decks on Ebay for roughly 2 dollars a piece, WITH shipping. I'm using them for the Tarot card game.

mythos

04-04-2006, 16:15

Just a couple of weeks back I got the OOP Robert Place Alchemical Deck and Book set for AUS$42 ... not bad sez I!

mythos:)

cynthia padley

04-04-2006, 16:55

Wow Hudson! Wished we had a l/2 price book store. Sound so neat, glad I wouldn't have been there to buy, but my buying frenzy on tarot cards have turned to selling on Ebay, and started buying up belly dancing coin scarves, harem pants, etc. I'm going to start practicing dancing again, once my nerves settle down on the selling. I've done really well selling books, and odds and ends on ebay, including my older costumes!

Mitchichen

10-05-2006, 02:11

Best bargain i ever found was my Haindl. It was about....$5 at the half priced bookstore. I've been buying my decks there ever since...

Thoth - $9.95
Ship of fools - $9.98
Medival Scapini - $7.58
Animals Divine - $11.98

The SoF, Thoth and AD were new in shrinkwrap, and the othertwo were in beautiful condition, af if only used a few times.

Fudugazi

10-05-2006, 02:14

Best bargain was the Good Witch, Bad Witch oracle I recently found on Amazon Marketplace (UK). It was going for a penny. I only had to pay for postage, in other words. Otherwise I've found a number of bargains on Marketplace and on Ebay, including a Tarot Balbi for 5 Euros.

jackdaw*

10-05-2006, 05:20

My best deal was for a Buckland Romani deck last year for $25 CDN. It wasn't brand new and didn't have the outer box, but given some of the prices we've seen it going for on eBay I was pretty pleased!

Dean

10-05-2006, 05:32

A Large Thoth with 3 Magus cards, i've just bought recently from a friend for £8.00 the cards are still wrapped in cellophane. I have wanted this deck for sometime, as this is now out of print.:thumbsup::

VGimlet

31-12-2007, 18:33

I just HAD to write because DH just doesn't get what a deal this was...

I got a complete Healing Earth Tarot kit for 10 bucks plus shipping. Yes, complete - I just checked. Honestly, I wasn't sure if I was getting just the book or the set, but - OMW, doing a little happy dance ATM.

:D

rwcarter

31-12-2007, 18:48

Definitely a bargain VG! Great way to end 2007.

Patting you on the back,
Rodney

karen0205

31-12-2007, 18:58

I found a Swedish Witch Tarot on e-bay with a buy it now for $30. Needless to say, I snarfed that up right away. It arrived and was in mint condition. I couldn't believe it. I also got a near mint copy of Robert Place Angel's Tarot with some other deck, I can't even remember what it was for $8 buy it now on e-bay. I was so delirious opening the Angel's Tarot that I can't even remember the other deck! The seller didn't know the name of the deck but I sure did!

karen

Little Hare

31-12-2007, 19:56

hmm bargins i have gotten, The best one would have to be from a member on here :) she gave me her buckland romani :heart:

Other bargins;

Sacred rose tarot $4 from op-shop

Rider Waite $6.50 from second hand bookstore

catti

31-12-2007, 19:59

I got a perfect Hoi Polloi at a yard sale for $5, once.

Queen of Disks

31-12-2007, 20:33

I was at the Waldenbooks at the mall today (I had arrived early for a movie-Sweeny Todd :D }) :D }) and the movie was fabulous) and picked up the DaVinci Enigma Tarot for $3.99. I had a good day. :D

morticia monroe

01-01-2008, 11:30

Surfing the net today I found a Glastonbury for $29.95

I got an e-mail confirming my purchase, but won't really count on it until I get the e-mail confirming it's shipment. I really like the brightness of the deck...fingers crossed!

tapestry

01-01-2008, 13:09

I got the original (English) version of the Victoria Regina kit (which included deck, book and black velvet bag) about a month ago while surfing the net for $34.95 brand new and still sealed! I couldn't believe it as I had been wanting that one for a while....I was happy, happy, happy :D :D :D

Shade

01-01-2008, 14:52

I just found an unopened box of the Sensual Wicca Deluxe deck at half price books for $10. Woo!

Lina1

01-01-2008, 18:58

I picked up a copy of the Rider-Waite Tarot at a Car Boot sale a few years ago for...I dont know...a pound? Maybe two? The box is battered and bashed but all the cards are there and I like them a lot, got some great readings when I used them.

I also aquired the Vision Quest Tarot and the Druid Animal Oracle via eBay for about £8.00 each, including postage. My boyfriend then very kindly suprised me with a copy of the D.A.O so I sold the secondhand copy and kept his one which I liked better actually. But I don't think I could ever give up my Vision Quest deck, not even for a shiny new copy!

I like the feel of secondhand decks...maybe even prefer it. New decks are just so...new! I like cards that have lived a little already I guess! :P

morticia monroe

09-01-2008, 20:11

My Glastonbury came today. Still in shrinkwrap. A good deal for $30

autumnsdaughter

09-01-2008, 20:27

A couple of weekends ago, I got a dozen decks secondhand, each for 2-4 bucks. Including the Ansata, which I've seen for 2 to 3 hundred bucks. I was tickled pink!

Shade

20-01-2008, 03:45

Oh wow Yowza what a deal.

I was hanging out with dear Cerulean today at our favorite cafe and after a few readings and some oohing and ahhing over her copy of the Lo Scarabeo book we hit the used bookstore down the street. Browsin through the tarot deck something caught my eye and I had to rush over to Cerulean and ask "Am I seeing what I think I'm seeing?" She confirmed that yes I had found a copy of the Greenwood tarot for $12.50. It was a fabulous find for me, I was so thrilled!

Cerulean you are such good luck when shopping!

Annabelle

20-01-2008, 04:06

Shade, what fabulous luck!!!! Congratulations :).

My best bargain find to date is the Alchemical tarot, still in shrinkwrap with the book and all, in a Goodwill (thrift) shop for exactly two dollars. I didn't know it was particularly sought after at the time; I just liked the art. But I recall that it took me a few minutes to make up my mind - after all, I "already had a tarot deck." Ha! Little did I know then that I would eventually own over 300 decks :D.

Debra

20-01-2008, 04:12

I was hanging out with dear Cerulean today at our favorite cafe and after a few readings and some oohing and ahhing over her copy of the Lo Scarabeo book we hit the used bookstore down the street.

WHERE in California is this bookstore, Shade? (Tell me it's one in my central coast neighborhood!)

Shade

20-01-2008, 04:14

It's just a little used book shop in san jose... forgetting the name. I alos picked up a copy of the good witch bad witch cards under Ceruleans advice she mentioned them being out of print also.

The Red Queen

20-01-2008, 11:08

rwcarter

20-01-2008, 12:53

It's just a little used book shop in san jose... forgetting the name. I alos picked up a copy of the good witch bad witch cards under Ceruleans advice she mentioned them being out of print also.
Um, I'm in San Jose and I really need to know the name of that bookstore! We usually end up going to BookBuyers in Mountain View, but if there's somewhere closer to home that we can investigate, we're all for it!

To keep on thread, I guess my best bargain was when a co-worker told me that his neighbors were moving and they had a box of tarot-related stuff that he was willing to sell for $100. This (http://www.tarotforum.net/showpost.php?p=1185405&postcount=5) post gives some basic info about the contents of the box, which had a bootleg copy of the Dali deck along with Pollack's book for the deck. The other major find in the box was a red De Laurence WCS, but it was missing the 3 Pentacles. But still $100 for 20 decks (one of which was a bootleg and two of which were missing cards) and $18 books was a bargain to me.

Rodney

Amon

20-01-2008, 13:11

Found a copy of the Ansata tarot for 210 SEK (= 30 USD) in a most unlikely place, a new age book store far away from civilisation. I also found the William Blake tarot and book set for about 45 USD. Here in Sweden the big stores in the major citys has nothing of interest for a collector, you have to try the bush.

The crowned one

20-01-2008, 13:35

Okay, here's my bargain: I walked into a local bookstore, where they had set up a table of "leftovers". My eyes skipped over the table's contents from across the room and froze on on a familiar box -- a Salvadore Dali Tarot!!! (I recognized it from ebay.:D) The store was crowded with people that day as I wended my way to the sale table in slow motion (hi, how are you, beautiful day today, we need rain though, smile, smile, smile). Finally, my fingertips brushed the crimson velvet box. It's real. I picked it up, noted the price, drew the box to my chest, exhaled, made my way to the cash register, paid $9.95+tax and walked out into the gorgeous summer day. The world was so much brighter than I remembered! (The seven of swords is my personal card -- I can't help it!)

I birthday-gifted it to my daughter the next week -- she's an artist and LOVES Salvadore Dali! :laugh:

Added: No, I'm positive they didn't intend to put $99.95 on it (DH's suggestion), because it's nothing they carry, they had cleared out a warehouse, and it really was a table of leftovers.

LOVE IT! In my minds eye I saw this story unfold perfectly. You floated to the table!

My best "deals" have actually happened here as our taste vary so greatly. As the saying goes "One man's meat is another man's poison". IF a deck does not fit me I would just as soon trade it as sell it.

On the island my source for used, strange or discounted decks is "Russell books" I have gotten some great deals there. Strangely their on-line system is horrible for tarot...you need to go to the store for the deals.

The Red Queen

20-01-2008, 15:32

<snip>. . . you have to try the bush.
Amen, brother!

A person just has to be willing to go out and beat those bushes!!!

I found a 2nd edition Vertigo in the antique mall last week but had to pay $30 for it (darn!!!). :P

Cerulean

20-01-2008, 16:17

Fields Books in San Francisco - Chinese Tarot, U.S. Games

http://www.fieldsbooks.com/cgi-bin/fields/index.html

I saw these on abebooks.com:

Bookbuyers in Mountain View and Pacifica (Carmel?) - wierd, out-of-print oracle decks, Keys to the Kingdom, once a Vertigo (I do not have-gave away) and Shakespearean Tarots (Norwicki--my husband's favorite deck)

Recycle Books in Saratoga and San Jose - Mage: the Ascension (novelty); used Fairy Tale (Isha Lerner)

It's been awhile, so do not know as of 2008 if they are still stocking tarot:

Renaissance Books in Palo Alto; San Jose - I seem to remember very curious books on tarot, usually something like the old Barbara Walker or Aquarian

Megabooks, Palo Alto (gone now) - Glastonbury Tarot
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metaphysical (independent)

Serpent's Kiss in Santa Cruz - (New Orleans V deck)

Ancient Ways in Oakland - (Heard, never been)

San Jose Bookshop (new location: Big Basin Way) - they used to carry older U.S. Games titles and independent publishers, but mostly new stock now from AG Mueller, Lo Scarabeo, etc.

Inner Journey, Los Gatos - fairly new stock

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Los Angeles on visits

Bodhi Tree Bookstore

http://www.bodhitree.com/

Minneapolis visits

Magus Books

http://www.magusbooks.com/contact

Happy shopping

Cerulean

Debra

20-01-2008, 17:42

Ah ha. Bookbuyers in Monterey (near Pacific Grove is what you're thinking). Indeed, I got the Visconti there used for $11.25 last year. Very nice.

If you San Jose types ever plan a road trip down here to visit the peninsula, let me know!

Cerulean

20-01-2008, 22:50

The Ukiyoe Tarot from U.S. Games--a sealed package for $16.00

My old and tattered booklet, less than pristine copies of cards are softly retired. This was my first deck, really picked for my familiarity and joy with looks backwards into something older for me, yet had the beautiful spirit of something new when I first met the tarot.

It is strange about Inner Journey, for this was an oldish bookstore that re-situated itself into Los Gatos and became incredibly revitalized after it moved to a new location.

I just felt like I returned from a magical Inner Journey--after I wrote the post identifying bookstores I knew, my husband and I took a drive...and decided to stop at a few places we hadn't been in...one of these places was Inner Journey. My beloved Empress from the Ukiyoe Tarot was staring at me. I thought I was just going there to match a gift of a fluorite bracelet--and the past suddenly seemed to roll back and I had that feeling of something lovely and old was renewed and young to me, again.

A small necklace of garnet and sandelwood beads actually worked with the casual and charming flourite...and it wasn't much more than the Ukiyoe Tarot.

I was very fortunate this weekend.

Cerulean

6 Haunted Days

20-01-2008, 22:51

It's just a little used book shop in san jose... forgetting the name. I alos picked up a copy of the good witch bad witch cards under Ceruleans advice she mentioned them being out of print also.

Good Witch Bad Witch aren't out of print, they're Kemp's most popular deck and was just reprinted this past October.

Reading this thread is painful. It reminds me when I lived in Los Angeles and had so much access to those dozens and dozens of used bookstores and out of the way places. Ahhh the glorious hours spent browsing ....and the rare finds!

Cerulean

20-01-2008, 23:10

I think I did look for it before the re-printing in October 2007, but sometimes it's hard for me to keep up with the oracle decks. I was able to find the fairy deck locally at a low price by Gillian Kemp in 2006. Thank you for the good update.

Hope Shade likes the oracle deck (Good Witch/Bad Witch) for the price he paid. I seem to remember it might have been under $8.00, not certain.

My Ukiyoe at $16 from Inner Journey in the original shrinkwrap is something I've looked for often. I still believe at a good price--it's definitely been scarce for me. I was almost going to "create a want" note on abebooks.com if I really felt the need.

Through Abebooks.com I remember finding the Tavaglione Tarot, the old version with gilt edging and wooden box--but I had looked carefully online...I do not know if I reported the price, but I believe it was worth the $70-75 I paid...I think I bought it in 2005.

I'm certain there are savvy collectors and talented bargain hunters who will continue to update and improve the information in this thread...I felt very fortunate to have had time this weekend to read this thread and do some bargain-hunting.

I wanted to thank those who posted here with updated information and inspiring finds!

Best regards,

Cerulean

P.S. It took me some time in January 2008 to list the above resources and find out if they had some websites for those shopping for tarots and not local to the particular area. Please feel free to update if people find better or updated information! I'm sorry if some of my data isn't as up-to-date--if you have time to send me an e-mail to delete a note if my information in post 122 of this thread is very misleading--please list the thread and post a pm to me--thanks!

autumnsdaughter

21-01-2008, 00:30

Last night, I found I Tarocchi delle Stelle for $6. I thought that was a fairly good deal.

I also found a weird little edition of the Arcus Arcanum- in German, and only the major arcana. I don't know if it's worth anything at all, but it was $2. How could I pass up a deck for $2? :D

Debra

21-01-2008, 00:39

whooo-weee autumnsdaughter--check out your finds by going to the tarot garden site.

Doesn't the trading forum here also yield some "best bargains"? I know I've been delighted by some things I've bought and traded through AT....

roppo

21-01-2008, 06:42

Geographical advantages are great in some cases: I purchased three Japanese Tarot/Cards books at a nearby second-hand bookshop (in Japan, of course!)

http://grimoire.blog.ocn.ne.jp/doll/files/threebooks.jpg

and the total price is 315 yen, approximately 3$. I suppose one of them is priced 250$ at the Tarot Garden.

Cerulean

21-01-2008, 12:55

...while your titles are unfamiliar to me, the more common Amano and a few Japanese language titles can be be had at Sasugabooks.com...Tarotgarden.com does get newer and unusual titles, though...so I like to look!

Thank you for noting the good finds!

Cerulean

morticia monroe

21-01-2008, 14:09

I like this thread...love to see what everyone is finding.

Just a note; If anyone is interested in the Glastonbury, I found mine at bodhitree.com

It was 29.95

Lewen

21-01-2008, 15:03

I like this thread...love to see what everyone is finding.

Just a note; If anyone is interested in the Glastonbury, I found mine at bodhitree.com

It was 29.95

I was surprised you found it as some people say it's hard to find. I wonder how many they have? Very good deal for you for sure! Congrats!

KaiMoonshadow

25-01-2008, 16:18

I can't boast as great a bargain as some of you, but my personal bests have been - my Thoth at £5 (as-new condition) and my Archeon at £6 (new).

I'm also quite pleased with myself recently for getting my Llewellyn for £11 (inc. p&p), when Amazon had it listed for at least £23!

Amon

29-01-2008, 03:25

I like this thread...love to see what everyone is finding.

Just a note; If anyone is interested in the Glastonbury, I found mine at bodhitree.com

It was 29.95

Sold out. Aargh.

karen0205

30-01-2008, 22:39

I don't know if this is a bargain or not so maybe someone can tell me. I got a copy of the Pomo Tarot for $10. Is that a good deal? I noticed the name here and there on different threads but I never picked up the deck. It's out of print according to Tarot Garden. Anyone have an idea if this was a good buy or not?
Thanks!

Karen

Pook

30-01-2008, 23:59

I bought brand new mostly shinkwrapped copies of the Greenwood, the Buckland Romani, and the Alchemical Tarots all for list price in the last couple of years from this funky little shop near where I live. The last time I was there they had William Blake, but I didnt have the money at the time, and when I went back it was gone. :( You have to have an hour at least to dig thru their collection. Stuff gets lost and rediscovered in there all the time.

I also have a couple of yard sale finds. I got a set of Karma cards, a Sacred Path Cards set, and a New Pallidini from the same sale for $3 each.

Oh...and not spectacular maybe, but I got a RWS and a 1JJ Swiss from the local library book sale for $4 each.

easternsunrise

02-02-2008, 13:28

I was at Half Price Books today and found a Alchemical Tarot Kit and The William Blake Tarot Kit both SEALED in origanal packing...Unbelievable...I actually had a guilty feeling leaving the store. :bugeyed:

autumnsdaughter

02-02-2008, 23:24

easternsunrise

03-02-2008, 02:13

Oh man, I am so jealous! Which HPB was it? (But to be fair, I have made out with some STEALS at those stores!)

I heart HPB!

By the way... if you are wanting to trade that William Blake... hint hint... :D

The Apple Valley one by Perkins restaurant. I'm in love with the Alchemical, half done reading the book already! I might be trading The William Blake...not sure yet. If I do I will list it in the trading section here though. They also have a Renaissance Tarot kit that had been opened but looked mint for I think under $20...didn't buy it because it's readily available yet. I love HPB too, never found anything like these before though. Will need to check more often.
:D

moonmorgan

05-02-2008, 02:51

I got a boxed Glastonbury tarot at a boot sale a couple of months ago for £8 - how I managed to feign slight disinterest before I bought it and walked away still amazes me.....

I actually had a guilty feeling leaving ..... :bugeyed:
Same here!

mosaica

14-02-2008, 08:52

I just bought a new copy of the Manga Tarot (Selena Lin) on amazon for 15 cents (plus $3.99 shipping)! There are a couple more available, if anyone is interested.

Marina

14-02-2008, 10:26

When i was in Italy...they have a esoteric magazine there called Sirio...and the February edition came with a deck as a gift. Okay, it was the Enochian Tarot, i guess, by LoScarabeo, and i wasn't interested.

But in Siena, i managed to find a edition of this magazine that came with the deck 'La Sibilla della Zingara', which i had been wanting for a long time. I came for free, as gift, when you bought the magazine. The price of the magazine was 2.50 euro...so that was the price i 'paid' for this deck!

I thought it was a bad printing maybe, but the cards in perfect condition (at least for me). :D

~Marina

Faolainn Storm

14-02-2008, 19:16

I was lucky enough to stumble across a brand new, unopened, copy of the Greenwood about six months ago, while looking for another deck - Tarot of the Elves (at the time it had just been published and, as usual, was not yet readily available in Australia, the drawback of having the internet but no credit card, GRRR)

Anyway, finally tracked down a copy of Tarot of the Elves to a shop in Geelong, Victoria (second largest city in the state, so not all that out of the way) and just sitting there on the shelf was a pristine Greenwood. I had seen this deck ONCE, way back around 1996, and not bought it, instead I bought the Hallowquest (and then spent the next 11 years kicking myself for that choice ) Then I saw it. As soon as I saw it I picked it up and tried not to mention to the staff the prices I had seen it for on ebay, so they wouldn't take it back and sell it for a real profit. Got it for A$36!!!!! Also there was a copy of Songs for the Journey Home for also around $35. I've never seen this deck before or since, and had wanted it for years. I seriously doubt I will EVER be that lucky again. I think I used up my lifetime supply of luck that day.

My only other good buy was the Glastonbury for $12 - just after it went OOP, a big metaphysical shop here in Melbourne decided to throw out their remaining stock. Looking back I kind of wish I had bought both the decks they had. Oh well

Folainn Storm

Little Hare

22-02-2008, 23:26

I just got the POMO tarot for Aus $10.30 including postage from Ozauction.com.au I'm assuming that's a bargin because its OOP...

Looking forward to having alook at the cards

Marina

22-02-2008, 23:31

I'm seriously moving to Australia. The decks there LAST! Here they don't even arrive :eek:

Cerulean

23-02-2008, 15:27

rwcarter

23-02-2008, 22:40

This is a very good year for reprints (2008).

My Galde copy of the Buckland and Robert Place's copy of the Alchemical Tarot Renewed have been ordered and paid for...I think the prices were about $30 for each and I'd like to think those are bargains..to have reasonable reprints that will give some funds back to the original creators...

Best wishes,

Cerulean
Cerulean,

I pre-ordered both those reprints too. I ordered two of each. Theoretically, I bought one for me and one for my partner. Right this exact minute, they're both mine :mad:, although that will probably change by the time they arrive.

Rodney

flicker

24-02-2008, 09:17

Classical tarot ls x2 £20.00
da vinci enigma C.Matthews x 2 £8.00
but this was years back in a small shop in Wales. I purchased them instead of buying a pair of green leather boots. I am still waiting to buy those boots.

fernmyst

05-03-2008, 01:59

well Im getting the Da Vinci Tarot (Book & Deck) for $10.00 at http://www.discountnewagebooks.com
they also have the Jesus deck for $35 if anyone is intrested. great deals all the time and Im going back to look again ..grin.. I know Im bad but I love my cards. have a blessed night.

hugs
Fernmyst

Nydia

05-03-2008, 12:15

the Da Vinci Tarot (Book & Deck) for $10.00 at http://www.discountnewagebooks.com

I bought my Da Vinci set there, too!

flicker

05-03-2008, 13:54

llwellyn on the same link $9.00 oh I wish I wasnt where I am. That is £22.00 in my local bookstore! animals divine the same id be payin £44 here I bet they wouldnt ship to the Uk. De-enable me.
I've de-enabled myself they dont ship to the uk. Thank Goodness.

fernmyst

06-03-2008, 02:36

Nydia
guess great Texas minds think alike ..smile.. have a great day and many blessings.

Skimo

11-03-2008, 10:14

Hello,

I have just bought the Tarot de Gruyeres for 30 euros, after failing to convince someone to buy it.
I just couldn't resist...

evelone

12-03-2008, 16:08

I just got the POMO tarot for Aus $10.30 including postage from Ozauction.com.au I'm assuming that's a bargain because its OOP...

Looking forward to having alook at the cards

I just bought the POMO this weekend, for $15 US, at a used bookstore (no shipping). Makes a great change from all my medieval and Victorian decks. It's been on my coffee table all week and I can't keep my hands off it, even bringing it to bed with me. The book is clever, too. I love the description of the Tower card: "serious toe-stubbing possibilities" !

Not sure its value has gone up a lot, since it hasn't been all the popular. But I feel I got my money's worth, considering it was $30 new.

Mariana

12-03-2008, 17:10

Ah, this thread suddenly reminds me: the online store I usually buy my books and decks from, somehow had the Sharman-Caselli for €2 about a year ago. Needless to say I added one to an order of mine, even though it wasn't my kind of deck. Gave it away. And later wondered whether I should have ordered more, cause they quickly sold out. No wonder.

Pook

02-05-2008, 11:53

Just have to share this one!
Went out a-shopping yesterday at the insanely crowded and ever full of wonders bookshop that I like, and found 3!!! Brand new Menegazzi's!! One of them I only paid $15 for!

And on a couple of not so obscure decks, Barnes and Noble has several traditional (Hanson Roberts, Rider, Medieval Scapini, etc.) decks for about $8 each.

Acacia

02-05-2008, 12:46

I found the Inner Child cards kit at Half Price books, no price marked. They decided to sell it to me for $9. List price $35.

rwcarter

30-06-2008, 14:07

I think that I got one of the best bargains ever yesterday, thanks to a fellow ATer who shall remain nameless, but she knows who she is if she reads this post.

Not only did my partner and I get two Xerox paper boxes full of assorted decks, books (both tarot and non-tarot related), blank journals, book covers and athames, I got both the Swedish Witch and the Element Books edition of the Ancient Egyptian Tarot (that comes with the deck, companion book and journal) all for FREE!!!!!!

I was excited about getting the two boxes worth of stuff (which included the Swedish Witch). Then my partner, the ATer and I sat down to do a round robin reading for each other. I hadn't brought my IDS deck with me (I wasn't thinking) and was going to use my Lo Scarabeo instead. (For show and tell, I'd brought all the boxes I'd made. I didn't bring the box I'd made for the AET cause I'd already shown it to her.) She got up, went into a room and grabbed this pristine copy of the AET and just gave it to me. I was floored. I'd've given her the two boxes of stuff back for the AET! And although I have a version, I'd been on the lookout for the Element Books version. Last one I saw on eBay went for $120+.

Had to share with folks who'd understand. And ATer who made all this possible, I'm forever indebted to you and will have to find some way to repay your kindness and generosity.

Rodney

Sinduction

30-06-2008, 14:20

Just picked up the Tarot of the Dead for a grand total of $4. Which included shipping btw. It was still sealed. I've been wanting it but not wanting to pay a lot since it has bland pip cards.

Another win off amazon.

karen0205

30-06-2008, 14:41

I just got the Tarot de Dali, still sealed, which I have been wanting but I don't have $75+ to pay for it. I got it for $26 including shipping!

It's not the jubilee edition but the one that you see the books of all the time
without the cards.

karen0205

30-06-2008, 14:43

Just picked up Tarot of the Dead for $4.
but not wanting to pay a lot since it has bland pip cards.

I agree, I really liked that deck but decided to let mine go because the
pips are so blah. I wish she would have done a fully illustrated deck or
do one now. I just loved the majors.

morticia monroe

30-06-2008, 15:10

Mariana

30-06-2008, 16:29

A local store here has a couple of older Lo Scarabeo decks on sale, for €3.5 each. I've seen the Mantegna, Dante, Origins, Imagination, Giotto, Journey to the Orient, Children, and perhaps a few others I don't remember. So if anyone is looking for any of these...

Cerulean

01-09-2008, 15:38

...they sometimes have titles I haven't seen or older titles...

It's out of print, so I felt it was a good buy and the majors are based on Oswald Wirth...a 1993 independent art press pick...

Cerulean

MysticalMoose

01-09-2008, 16:54

I got a last minute bargain on ebay... The OOP Whimsical for £8 (GBP) I think it will be here tomorrow. along with a copy of the companion book that I got from my usual amazon.uk 3rd party seller for £2, in fact the postage was more than the book! :D

Also nabbed the Art Nouveau Tarot ( not the LS one, the stained glass one) for £4, its been a good week!

MM :D

Le Fanu

01-09-2008, 17:32

Last week, I got the Dali Tarot (Jubilee edition, not the velvet box one), the Sibilla des Salons (lo Scarabeo?)and my 2nd spare Minchiate Etruria Florentina for 5 euros each!

Then on the flea market I found a great, tiny little shelving unit made of wood which is perfect for stacking decks in bags (and gosh, I really needed that!). Keeps the decks protected and is very compact. And it cost me 1 euro! Yes ONE euro... Not strictly a tarot bargain, but it was an accessory which is just perfect for the job!

LadyMedusa

04-09-2008, 23:32

I found a first ed Mage the Ascension kit at Half price books for $12.50 today. The box is a bit roughish but the contents are perfect.

LadyMedusa

The crowned one

05-09-2008, 00:13

I found what I hope is a pre 1920 Grimaud “Le Grand Etteilla" for 40.00 bucks.

LinaBabii

05-09-2008, 08:51

I love this thread
While I was in the states, a friend of mine (ever the enabler) took me to a little hole in the wall new age shop.. I was looking at the tarot decks when I found a mint condition-still sealed in plastic Ukiyoe tarot for only $15!
I was suuper excited, because I love japanese artwork. The shop owner must think I'm a bit nuts though..

blackroseivy

05-09-2008, 10:24

I recently saw the Jacques Vieville go for like, $106... I am a BIIIIG Tarot history buff, & I had picked it up a few years ago for (maybe) $40-45; can't remember exactly, but certainly less than half that.

Saw the "Ancient Enlightened" ("Sola Busca") - now out of print evidently - go for around $50+; I had gotten it for about $30.

Oh - & I spent my "eBay bux" (a promotion during which one would get a 2% rebate on all "qualifying" [which was nearly all, & certainly anything I was likely to be getting!] purchases) on the "Golden Tarot of Kilmt" for which I also purchased that gorgeous bag that LS made just for it, that was extra but only a few $$$ so I went for it! ;)

Le Fanu

05-09-2008, 11:13

I love this thread

Me too! Best of ALL the threads here at AT! And Gosh I didn´t know that the Sola Busca Tarot was OOP. They had this deck in that Tarot stash I found for 5 euros each! Maybe I should go back and get it?

My local shop had a Vieville for ages which I bought and sent to cara (but this was before all the extorionate ebay listings) But I knew it was a jewel and I knew it was getting difficult to find...

schmedrake

05-09-2008, 18:18

This thread inspired me to take a trip to a couple of used book stores today. I found a lame (aka non-scenic pips) OOP deck called the Prediction Tarot. I didn't want it so the lady at the book store gave it to me for $2. It's actually not a bad deck. The scenic cards are lovely.

Anyway, this was a fun first foray into the used book store world.

SolSionnach

05-09-2008, 18:23

rwcarter

05-09-2008, 21:32

I'm on vacation next week and I think I'm gonna go used bookstore shopping.... Although I don't need to spend any money (property taxes are looming.... :(), if I find a bargain, I'm going for it even if I don't like the deck!

Looking back over my posts, I see I didn't mention another great bargain I got. For the price of the Alchemical: Renewed, I got a sealed copy of the original Alchemical deck. True, it was from my partner, but it's still a best bargain!

Rodney

minrice

05-09-2008, 22:36

Before I got a lot of my tarot library from the inventory that came in at the used bookstore I was working in at the time! I got first pick :-)

rwcarter

05-09-2008, 22:43

minrice,

I've been told that my Alchemical coup doesn't count cause it was my partner. If that's true, then getting first pick cause you worked at the used bookstore is definitely cheating! (I'm just jealous! :laugh:)

Rodney

All Is One

05-09-2008, 22:53

rwcarter

05-09-2008, 23:02

Nah, not as lucky as Le Fanu! ;)

Rodney

Le Fanu

06-09-2008, 05:52

I'm on vacation next week and I think I'm gonna go used bookstore shopping...

You´re not coming to Lisbon are you? I fear competition! :) I fear a mass descent of AT-ers on Lisbon discovering my haunts! Lol!

rwcarter

06-09-2008, 12:00

You´re not coming to Lisbon are you? I fear competition! :) I fear a mass descent of AT-ers on Lisbon discovering my haunts! Lol!
:laugh: Wish that I could afford to go somewhere, but, alas, this will be a stay-cation (stay-at-home vacation). Plus it'll be fun to (hopefully) find hidden gems in my own backyard!

Rodney

MysticalMoose

07-09-2008, 12:47

I received my Whimsical today that I won on eBay for the sum of £8 (GBP) & it came in a lovely carved wooden box that alone would have cost more than £8 if I had bought it in a shop! Got the companion book too for £2 :party:

MM :heart:

truelighth

08-09-2008, 11:02

Some of my best bargains I found in esoterical stores in the Netherlands. Since the sales people often had no clue wether a deck was out of print or very collectable. And some of those decks were lying in the dust in those stores for ages already. Among those are:

The Servants of the Light that I got for an equivalent of $20, a Black&White Rider Waite deck (by Bert Bakker) for $15, Crisse Tarot for $14 and a Tarocchi di Valentina Visconti that I got for $24.

Some other major bargains of collectable decks that I found (mostly through Ebay or the internet): Deutsches Original Tarot for $8 , Fine art Tarot (small edition) for $23, Golden Cycle Tarot for $25, Thomson-Leng Tarot for $46. And my latest bargain: Tarot de Gwen for 20 Euro ($30)

bodhran

08-09-2008, 11:52

Just got a brand new Xultun tarot from an Amazon marketplace seller for $14.00!
http://www.learntarot.com/xudesc.htm

WolfSpirit

08-09-2008, 14:49

Le Fanu

08-09-2008, 19:26

These "bargains" are quite expensive...

My best buys have been 5 euros. I only paid 15 euros for the Cary-Yale Visconti because it was a first edition (not for any "cachet" of having a 1st edition; but because of that lovely 1980s cardstock), shrink wrapped and Id been thinking of buying it for ages...

When I find tarot on the flea market, I always get it down to 5 euros. Sometimes they try and get 7.50 out of me, but I never waver... ;)

All Is One

09-09-2008, 12:56

Truelighth, I must confess: I would not recognize most of these decks as bargains either ;)
But I got a Dreampower Tarot for 22 euros. Since I already had a copy (also obtained cheap, through a trade on AT) I traded this one to another ATer who has been wanting one for years.

I have wanted this deck for YEARS. It is OOP and I try very hard not to think about it.

YOur post drove me to go to amazon and torture myself again. I refuse to pay $70.00 for it.

Anyone wanting to trade or whatever...please contact me!

truelighth

09-09-2008, 13:49

Truelighth, I must confess: I would not recognize most of these decks as bargains either ;)

Yeah, I know. My luck :D. If you are not so busy with tarot and especially with collecting, then you wouldn't know how much they are worth. Or rather, for how much they sometimes sell. But like I said, I don't mind... hehe.

morticia monroe

05-11-2009, 13:21

Well, I know I got it for a steal, but not sure exactly HOW hard it is to find,,, I went to a "Gypsy Market" in Lafayette today and found a shelf with decks. And on that shelf was a large, white box, printed in Belgium 1978 Thoth Greenie. I got it for $8. it is second hand, but the cards are all there including the extras and LWB, and in great shape. And I really like second hand decks.

So I feel I've done pretty well.

Amary

05-11-2009, 13:27

That '78 Thoth Green box is selling for $140 at my local used bookstore, so I'd say you did pretty well. (I'd also say they're out of their dang minds.)

I have had some good fortune; not $12 Greenwood good fortune, but good enough for me. :)

I found Tea Leaf Fortune Cards for $15, The Shakespeare for $15, and the Norse for $10.

I am fairly certain there is a rift in the space-time continuum that is sucking up OOP decks and dropping them at my used bookstore.

I'm not complaining.

gregory

05-11-2009, 13:30

Shriek.

I want another greenie

Yes OK I do have one. But it isn't as green as I'd like.... :(

How about a Belgian Animals for £5, though. The VanDenBorre. The one in the first post of this thread ! (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=68120)

morticia monroe

05-11-2009, 15:12

I want another greenie

Yes OK I do have one. But it isn't as green as I'd like.... :(

That was a true LAUGH OUT LOUD on this end,,,, are they various shades of green, then?

gregory

05-11-2009, 18:37

That was a true LAUGH OUT LOUD on this end,,,, are they various shades of green, then?
Oh yes. I have one with 2 cards missing that is positively broccoli coloured - and a complete but much less green one. Lillie has a corker - almost like spinach.

morticia monroe

05-11-2009, 21:41

Well I just learned something. :) I never knew that. I wonder where my greenie is on the greenie scale.

gregory

06-11-2009, 06:43

This (http://www.tarotforum.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=7415) is the greenest I ever saw. It was in the listing for one I got on ebay. Sadly it didn't live up to that photo..... But I am told some did.....

This (http://www.tarotforum.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=7486) is how things turned out.

I since got another noticeably greener one, closer to the ebay scans, but still not QUITE as...

That's the one with 2 cards missing.

Le Fanu

06-11-2009, 06:44

I have a greenie which is more "cream of broccoli". Rather diluted. But I was missing a card and gregory kindly procured me a greenie Ace of Disks from a friend which, when it arrived was very, very, green. That's how know that mine is a more "cream of" variety...

WolfSpirit

06-11-2009, 07:05

I wish I had picked up a greenie when noone wanted them and ATers were giving them away, I could have made a profit now, ask different prices dependent on the intensity of green :D I would not want one for myself

How about a Belgian Animals for £5, though. The VanDenBorre.

I did not pay much for mine either - a little more than you, but mine came as part of a box of board games and a lenormand deck and a few other goodies (it was sold like that as part of a commemorative set).

gregory

06-11-2009, 07:11

morticia monroe

06-11-2009, 07:41

Mine is somewhere betweeen the two you posted. I'd say Cream of Broccoli is a good description. :)

SarahRacheal

06-11-2009, 07:57

can someone please (maybe in another thread) explain greenie?
thanks
confused sarah :)

gregory

06-11-2009, 08:17

You can see something about them with samples in the Tarotgarden's Thoth Table - here (http://www.tarotgarden.com/library/decks/thothtable.php).

There is also a thread about the various editions here (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?p=2048651#post2048651) and one about the greenies here (http://www.tarotforum.net/showthread.php?t=51032).

It is LOVELY :D I really like it !

MysticalMoose

06-11-2009, 10:02

Greenies ? or Green Boxes?

On the bargain front I found this morning a 1979 Morgan Greer in a 2nd hand flea type maket for 50p Yayy :D

aurarcana

06-11-2009, 10:05

There are many flea markets by me spring - fall, and I am going to check them out next year...

Goodwill - why didn't I think of that?!?

gregory

06-11-2009, 10:07

Green Boxes do NOT contain Greenies (well, a VERY few early ones do, but it isn't likely now - and is CERTAINLY not true of a NEW green box deck !)

aurarcana

06-11-2009, 10:14

^ The one I have is the 1983 US Games Green box (large cards); the cards have the grey border around them, which happened after they "fixed" the green. I managed to get them for a great price on eBay. Funny, I don't think the green is that "bad" and offers a mysterious quality.

cardlady22

06-11-2009, 10:18

I can't remember the specific prices/decks, but I think my greatest x percent off finds have been at EdwardRHamilton and Mondazzi (DiscountNewAgeBooks) ~ both of which are pre-Internet for me.

ETA: My mother-in-law has been talking about a giant Goodwill store that caters to books, etc. I may have to run over sometime. (without her, of course!)

SarahRacheal

06-11-2009, 10:29

my best bargain so far has been a bohemian gothic (the normal one before the excitment kicks in) for retail in WHSmith last week. I checked it's the last one they had in the counrty lol
sarah x

Wendywu

06-11-2009, 11:02

Mine was the Pamela B ..... for about £20 on Ebay ... and ditto the Granny Jones for little more but still nowhere near its value...

After that luck, I think I've probably had my fair share (and more, some might say lol)

gregory

06-11-2009, 11:07

Mine was the Pamela B ..... for about £20 on Ebay ... and ditto the Granny Jones for little more but still nowhere near its value...

:bugeyed:

*green with envy Pam B wise.....* (Granny I got when it was still in stores.)

morticia monroe

06-11-2009, 14:13

:bugeyed:

*green with envy Pam B wise.....* (Granny I got when it was still in stores.)

DAy-um!!! Now that's a steal!

I'd say my best bargain ever was a 1981 PRS Knapp-Hall that I found for $7

Sinduction

06-11-2009, 14:21

Goodwill - why didn't I think of that?!?
Goodwill has decks??? There's one here within walking distance. Not that I would walk it, but still.

I think I may have to leave the house today. :D

aurarcana

06-11-2009, 14:26

^ Ha, someone else posted it earlier in the thread. They could--although not all may. You would have to browse the books section ;). I am going to check out some next weekend; there are a slew of them nearby.

* Dreams of discovering one of the 1970 Morgan Press Aquarian Tarot decks * You know, from someone's donations dropped off from back when they were vaguely interested in Tarot in the '60s and '70s'? Sort of like that.

Debra

06-11-2009, 14:28

I've never seen a tarot or oracle deck in Goodwill, anywhere in the US.

I did once find an oracle deck in an animal welfare benefit shop.

Le Fanu

06-11-2009, 16:31

Ive had oodles of bargains. A Minchiate Florentina for 10 euros on the flea market. A complete, vintage (1960s?) Lenormand for 4 euros last month (she wanted 5 euros. I just thought it would look better if I convinced her that it was worth less! My heart was beating!)

Oh there have been loads. Two unopened Ukiyoes on sale (remaindered) this year in the middle of Manchester.

Loads. Too many to mention.

Debra

06-11-2009, 16:49

Lisbon is put on the top of my list of places to move to.

Le Fanu

06-11-2009, 16:51

Lisbon is put on the top of my list of places to move to.
erm... the times are a-changing. It's not worth it now. Honestly. Maybe a couple of years ago, but now, all the decent 2nd hand bookshops have turned into Benetton shops...

Debra

06-11-2009, 16:53

Lisbon is taken off my list of places to move to.

Le Fanu

06-11-2009, 17:15

*phew*

nisaba

07-11-2009, 00:33

<cackle> I'm still planning on it ...

firefrost

07-11-2009, 04:22

erm... the times are a-changing. It's not worth it now. Honestly. Maybe a couple of years ago, but now, all the decent 2nd hand bookshops have turned into Benetton shops...

Ouch! Sacriledge...

Le Fanu

07-11-2009, 06:18

Another bargain I forgot to mention; I picked up a (1981?) Knapp Hall from an amazon seller for 15 euros. I think that's a steal. Sometimes it's worth looking up insanely HTF decks on amazon, you just never know...

PathWalker

07-11-2009, 07:12

A Glastonbury Tarot deck and book for £12 on Ebay 'buy now'. :)

fyreflye

07-11-2009, 10:55

A few years ago I picked up an original edition Alchemical Tarot set on eBay for a $12.50 USD Buy It Now. Since I already had a set that had cost me about $100 I traded the new one with Scion for a Tarot de la Réa which I still own and treasure today.

But my real coup was finally getting my long sought after Goose Is Out Tarot about five years ago. Never heard of it? Consult your Kaplan. Jeannette at Tarot Garden had quoted me $400 as the going price when it could be found at all. But one day on German eBay it showed up with a starting bid of €24. I bid the minimum to hold it but didn't bother to cover myself with a higher bid since I expected to be seriously outbid beyond my means before the end of the auction. In fact there were no other bidderss and I got it for about $35 including shipping by air from Germany.

Of course this story will mean nothing to the almost all of you who've never heard of this deck, but it meant a lot to me.

zan_chan

07-11-2009, 10:57

Le Fanu

07-11-2009, 12:26

I also found the Piatnik and Mystical Lenormands for about $3 each. How do you say no to that?
I'd have offered $2 ;)

firefrost

07-11-2009, 13:37

I got a new, cellophane-wrapped Victorian Romantic a couple of weeks ago for about $20 from a shop here in Japan. I also found the Piatnik and Mystical Lenormands for about $3 each. How do you say no to that?

You don't. You buy them all and sell them here! :D

(Oh, and any Vieville you may come across...) ;)

jackdaw*

07-11-2009, 13:41

A few years ago now ... two Norse Tarot sets (including clamshell case), one of them shrinkwrapped, for $28 total, Canadian, in a local shop. The same shop I got a $25 Buckland Romani set at before the reprint.

Also, past eBay bargains: a Vandenborre Bacchus for 1 euro. A $28 Granny Jones set. A $12 (shipping included) '68 Albano Waite. I'm sure there are more ...

zan_chan

07-11-2009, 21:51

(Oh, and any Vieville you may come across...) ;)

Errr, I just ordered a Vieville yesterday for about $40 US. I'm not sure I'd exactly call that a bargain per say, however.

sapienza

07-11-2009, 22:24

Errr, I just ordered a Vieville yesterday for about $40 US. I'm not sure I'd exactly call that a bargain per say, however.

Can I ask where from? :)

zan_chan

07-11-2009, 22:35

Can I ask where from? :)

Sure, I'll PM you my story. Don't want to get this thread off track...:-)

tarotmama

08-11-2009, 00:07

I got a new, cellophane-wrapped Victorian Romantic a couple of weeks ago for about $20 from a shop here in Japan. I also found the Piatnik and Mystical Lenormands for about $3 each. How do you say no to that?

*Falls off her chair*

Well if you find another, pick it up for me would-ya!!

And then you can send it to me with all the other crazy stuff I want from Japan! :)

tarotmama

08-11-2009, 00:17

I'm so jealous of this whole thread! I never find cool stuff!

fyreflye

08-11-2009, 00:32

I'm so jealous of this whole thread! I never find cool stuff!

When you've been around a little longer you'll realize we're all making this stuff up.

Debra

08-11-2009, 00:47

Shhhhh dammit :( you'll spoil the fun.

My best bargain is 10 Conver woodblock Marseille cards from about 1865-ish. 3 trumps, 5 courts, 2 pips, $15. :P

tarotmama

08-11-2009, 00:49

When you've been around a little longer you'll realize we're all making this stuff up.

Okay well that's comforting.

I was starting to think the whole internet was invented to make me hate my life.

ILuvEire

08-11-2009, 01:48

My best bargain yet was finding the Mystical Lenormand for $8 on Amazon. ^_^ I'm trying to keep my eye out for any other bargains, Amazon seems to have quite a few actually.

firefrost

08-11-2009, 04:53

Errr, I just ordered a Vieville yesterday for about $40 US. I'm not sure I'd exactly call that a bargain per say, however.

That's a bargain.

Okay, it's not the most sought after Marseilles type deck, but not so far off. Plenty here would like one, and up to now, it's the only one of that type that I can read with.

It's in my top three decks. Enjoy it! :)

zan_chan

08-11-2009, 04:58

That's a bargain.

Okay, it's not the most sought after Marseilles type deck, but not so far off. Plenty here would like one, and up to now, it's the only one of that type that I can read with.

It's in my top three decks. Enjoy it! :)

Thanks a lot! I was pretty excited to find it. I don't have the least bit of experience with non-scenic pip decks, but after all the talk of them around here the last few days, I set out to find a nice one. The deck is going to take a few weeks to reach me I think, so I should have lots of time to begin reading up on Marseille-style decks before then.

firefrost

08-11-2009, 05:06

Thanks a lot! I was pretty excited to find it. I don't have the least bit of experience with non-scenic pip decks, but after all the talk of them around here the last few days, I set out to find a nice one. The deck is going to take a few weeks to reach me I think, so I should have lots of time to begin reading up on Marseille-style decks before then.

And if you find it's not for you, my copy could always use a friend...

*Walks off, whistling innocently...*!! ;)

gregory

08-11-2009, 06:21

I just saw a Greenwood on BIN for $5.

Not ! :D

emmsma

08-11-2009, 09:56

Gregory, you are an evil woman!

Scarlet27

08-11-2009, 10:54

I got a LE Tarocco Favoloso a couple of months ago for US$18 :D
'Tis my treasure, so far that's the rarest deck I own.

gregory

08-11-2009, 11:29

Gregory, you are an evil woman!
Thank you darling. I DID just get the Vandenborre Animal repro for £8. I thought that was pretty good.

MysticalMoose

08-11-2009, 11:48

Today I found in the same used bookstore another a Medieval Enchantment deck on its own in a brown envelope all complete for £2.50 !!! Yayyy :)

(& Gregory, your PM box is full :) ) :D

Le Fanu

08-11-2009, 11:52

Today I found in the same used bookstore another a Medieval Enchantment deck on its own in a brown envelope all complete for £2.50 !!! Yayyy
Another? Did I hear you say another? Does that mean you'll be selling this one for an obscene profit? (notice the pleading intonation...)

Hardly an exciting bargain, but I got an early 1970s Rider & Co deck off ebay for 3 pounds. Then I got a still shrink-wrapped AG Muller RWS WITH the Calligraphy titles (i.e before they changed it to compuer font) for 5 pounds. Not exciting I know, but nice decks to have...

Wendywu

08-11-2009, 11:55

Hardly an exciting bargain, but I got an early 1970s Rider & Co deck off ebay for 3 pounds.

I got one for £2.70 this week :) And a 1979 Morgan & Morgan edition Morgan Greer for $11 (although that was a few weeks back now)

And today I got a shrinkwrapped MRP Fairytale d/b set for £9.50 :)

ETA Now I am saving up .....

Le Fanu

08-11-2009, 12:08

And a 1979 Morgan & Morgan edition Morgan Greer for $11 (although that was a few weeks back now)
mmm... ebay methinks (I debated buying an older M&M Morgan Greer a few weeks back on ebay, but let it go, wonder if t'was that one?). Ive been gabbing here about how the Rider & Co blue box is the best out there and I saw that yestderay one went for over 30 pounds :bugeyed:

better to keep gob shut ;)

Wendywu

08-11-2009, 12:17

Oooh I'm glad you let it go. My copy of the Morgan Greer is younger than that but so used that it's all puffy up now. The ebay 1979 was actually shrink wrapped and the cards feel amazing.

I now have two of the Rider & Co. blue box 1970 odd RWS - I just wanted to be sure that I was never ever ever tempted to take poor old Pam out of the house.... so I thought I'd leave one of the blue boxes in my desk at work, along with a couple of others that I like to have around.

I just wish I could afford a second Ironwing - I carry this one round everywhere but it's my Only and I worry ...... mind you I have made a high-res scanned copy but it's not the same.

lark

08-11-2009, 14:10

A bargain is a bargain..if it's a deck you want and its a great price..I don't think it has to be rare to be a bargain.
Most of my oracle decks are from bargin tables and off half price book sites. And were often between 2-5 dollars...later they became OOP because they were being stripped from the shelves to make room for the new stuff.
So some maybe rare now, but at the time they had stacks of them.

MysticalMoose

08-11-2009, 14:19

Another? Did I hear you say another? Does that mean you'll be selling this one for an obscene profit? (notice the pleading intonation...)

Not a chance :D , my "other" copy has been trimmed & I'm soo happy to have found one that I can keep pristine :D

2 bargains in a week! M. Enchantment for £2.50.. I am happy.... :) the 1979 Morgan Greer was only 50p Yayy!...mind you, thats probably my bargain quota for the next 5yrs! I don't usually have such luck lol