I don't see it as panic, I see it as taking advantage of a great opportunity, even though it is in some sense killing the hobby (like Archie mentioned, it's too expensive to buy strikes at these prices, at least psychologically it is). How many hobbies out there can finance a new car purchase, pay major medical bills, finance a great vacation, all with incredible liquidity? When casinos went to clad, they lost many strike collectors, and I think it's a bunch of those collectors who are selling their collections. There are very few new strikes with actual silver in them each year, and the casinos are limited, so the allure of collecting has diminished for many. Past strike collecting has quickly turned into an excellent investment that is fun all in one! Why not cash out your commons for some cash?

Dave.
SS-1232