This column first appeared in May 2011.
Remember the packs of sports trading cards from the 1970s and 80s? I recently stumbled across several boxes of them that I thought my son had taken when he bought his first home 12 years ago. But there they were, still in the closet and mixed among them several sticks of that terrible pink bubble gum that came as a “bonus” inside every pack!
Today’s collectors truly do find a bonus in every pack, as the bubble gum of past decades has been replaced with authentic game-used memorabilia. Pieces of baseball bats, football jerseys and even sheet metal from race cars now accompany the trading cards, and the trading card companies just keep upping the ante with new and better ideas to stay ahead of the competition. The prospect of these items as an investment has rejuvenated the interest of trading card collectors from the past, and each years draws a growing number of newcomers to this category of collectibles.
Seasoned trading card collectors have always valued the potential of a rookie card. Novices collectors need to keep in mind that there is a considerable difference between a true rookie card and a first release from a card company of a particular player. These are also called “rookie cards.” It is important to make certain that you are looking at the first card the player ever appeared on. Reprints are worth a fraction of the value of an original, and are nearly impossible to tell from the real thing.
Rookie cards from famous sports figures, such as Michael Jordan, are a rare find and can be worth thousands of dollars. The Jordan card was reprinted many years ago and will therefore look aged and authentic. Talk to an expert before you lay down your hard earned cash, and always pay the authentication fee on any major purchase.
At many sporting events the sponsor will issue a collection of rare information made available only to the media. These “press kits” include press releases, team or stadium photos, and exclusive unreleased photos. They are a unique way to take an in-depth look into your favorite sport or sports figure.
Limited edition items generally hold their value better than their mass-produced counterparts. Watch for special edition and commemorative collectibles, including documents acknowledging an anniversary or career record.
Game-used event cards are a good investment. These unique inserts will one day be a historical collectible and their authenticity is guaranteed by the issuing company. Beware of unauthorized or illegal merchandise. Many items are reproduced without the consent or knowledge of the sports organization or the athletes involved. Watch for the symbol that confirms a collectible is an officially-licensed product. If you collect autographs, note that most athletes will only sign an officially-licensed product.
Top-end pieces like pennants, mid-20th century bobble heads, stadium pins and autographed baseballs may be out of reach to many aspiring collectors. One way to get in the game without going for broke is to dabble in speculation with sports that are lesser known. This “trend spotting” is the key to smart collecting and future profits.
My son, the collector, turns 34 this week, and we are preparing a party for him with 20 of his childhood friends and their families. After writing this I believe I have come up with the perfect nostalgic gift for the occasion. I plan to box up all of those cards in the closet and take them to HIS house. Ah, at last, closet space! Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett70@gmail.com
