We've been talking about patch collecting lately, so today I want to bring up another topic along the same lines: sentimental value. What I mean by this is that experience we've all had where we're trying to swap another collector for one of his patches, and he seems to be asking awful lot in return. Oftentimes, without saying so, it's due to the fact that the patch has some sort of sentimental value to him.
Think of in terms of custom motorcycle club colors as opposed to stock patches. Those colors are very important to the biker and his club because they symbolize both brotherhood and what each member has endured to earn the patch. Club ownership aside, very few bikers would give up their colors even if they were allowed to do so. They have a personal the biker is not willing to part with.
Likewise, you may be dealing with the patch collector who thinks he's willing to part with some of his pieces only to find out he's not. He may ask a lot from you just for one piece you're after; a tactic designed to discourage you or just an indication of how much he values his patch. Don't get angry and don't argue. Respect the other collector and his wishes. If you can't strike a deal you're both comfortable with, give him your name and contact information and tell him to let you know if he ever changes his mind.
One final note is the word of advice for all who take their patch collections to swap meets. If you have pieces with high sentimental value, you might want to attach a little piece of paper that says "for display only." That will ward off any potential misunderstandings with other collectors.
