Hi Mark, first of all, please refer to my email which I will send within minutes after I post this answer to your questions.

1. Are issued or blank cards normally more desireable?

I sure hate this answer when I get it, but in fact it does really depend upon the person. Personally, I'd rather have blanks. In lieu of that, one's with my name on them.

2. How do you get the cards that you don't obtain through trades? By applying for a card personally? By cruising slot machines looking for orphaned cards? eBay?

Again the easy answer is all three--preferably by
By cruising slot machines looking for orphaned cards.

3. Is there a listing online of casinos that will allow you to apply for a card online?

I believe Mike already answered that one for you.

4. Does somebody sell large lots of common cards at a reasonable price for folks just starting to collect?

That's what my e-mail is concerning.