Swordfish,
Some items are already being made that are so close to the originals that only true experts can tell. Why? Surely not so that new collectors can buy a representative item at an inexpensive price to "fill the hole" in a collection. No they are designed to deceive and extract the maximum from the unwary newbie.
As for older collectors being helpfull I have had both good and bad experiences. The internet has been a game changer and anyone who seriously wishes to learn can find the tools but the guidance of the experienced collector and his encouragement is what is needed to keep this hobby going.


Magna res est vocis et silentii temperamentum.