Regarding "rarity". Generally the majority of shells from "old" collections
are more valuable today than when they were collected, if they have good
data. Not just because of increasing rarity but also because of increasing
limitations on collecting in many areas. There are literally hundreds of
examples. Before going on shelling trips today the first question is always
"is collecting allowed where I want to go?".

The biggest exception to that rule are shells from the Philippines which
have become increasing less "rare" as collecting has intensified in that
area. Pete krull

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