The difference here is that these old bikes, especially in this condition, really are truly RARE. The Cabbage Patch Kids, Beanie Babies, modern Hot Wheels etc are specifically made to be collected, so even when they are made in "limited" numbers, it's still just an illusion. After a while, they are on the shelf at the Goodwill where they belong. I'm not expert on Schwinns, but sure seems to me that this bike should be worth every penny of $12k. If it's not, then our hobby is cheap.There are "bubbles" and trends when it comes to collectibles. Does anybody remember Cabbage Patch Kids or Beanie Babies? Better yet, how about Treasure Hunt Hot Wheels. Collect what you like because YOU like it, not as in investment. I have a good friend that had a beautiful Sting-ray and non Schwinn hi rise collection, and when he liquidated it, he broke even or took a loss.