"One of the toughest doe hunting licenses to get is for 1953. "That year, hunters protested doe hunting, and they burned the licenses. The Game Commission cut down on the issue amounts, too. I think they only issued 75 or 100 at most."

In fact, he is still searching for a 1953 Montour County doe license that is worth up to $2,000.

He is also starting a collection of Montour County doe licenses from numbers one to 100. "I need lower numbers. Other collectors are telling me it can't be done. I have 64 so far."

He also has fishing licenses. He has a complete set of framed fishing license pins, which were issued 1923-1959 and again in 1974 and 1975.

"It took me 12 years to get the entire set."

Fishing lures fill tackle boxes, along with fish wardens badges in the 1950's and special badges from the 1940's. He also has ammunition in the original boxes. "There are some collectors who just collect shell boxes," he said holding up a filled box of Winchester repeater paper shot shells in 20 gauge which dates back into the 1930-1940's. "This would be worth $35-$40."

The best prices are based on the condition of the item rather than its age. "I traveled a couple of hours to purchase what I was told was a complete set of fishing buttons. When I saw them, they had been nailed up. In each button was a nail hole. That display went from a worth of $2,000 down to nothing."

According to Loreman, there are about five who he classes as big collectors in Pennsylvania. "I am just a little fish in a big pond," he said in jest.

He enjoys exhibiting his collections at area gun shows. He also buys and sells on E-bay during the winter months.

"I am going to keep collecting because I enjoy the challenge and when it becomes a hassle, I'll stop."

For more information on his collection, contact Loreman at 458-0109 or e-mail at cardinal@pa.metrocast.net

n Connie Mertz is a hunter and nature enthusiast from Danville. Contact her at: owcam@verizon.net