TRADING CARD RENAISSANCE: NAVIGATING THE MODERN COLLECTING LANDSCAPE

If you had a collection “back in the day,” and you’re now reentering the collecting world, you’ll find that many things have changed. Or, if you’re introducing sports cards to a younger family member, you might be shocked at the options and prices, including sports card prices and values. Even if it’s been a while, you’ll find some things have stayed the same, but you also need to educate yourself on what’s new.

Card sets were abundant and cheap back in the 1980s and 1990s. Cards were simple (not many parallels or autos), and print runs were huge. If you have boxes of these sitting in your basement, they are likely not worth much, but you’ll have fun sorting through them and reliving memories.

As you add to your collection, you’ll learn that many of today’s cards are less common, which translates into higher prices. You can still get inexpensive packs for around $5, but get ready to see exclusive sets. For example, the 2021-22 Panini National Treasures basketball box debuted at $5,000 per box. You won’t be able to collect anything and everything. Find a niche you love, and stay in that lane for now.

You’ll also find there are fewer manufacturers in the mix. Most major sports leagues have exclusive deals with Topps, Panini, or Upper Deck (and soon-to-be Fanatics, Inc.). The manufacturers you remember may have closed up shop years ago.

How and where you buy cards has also changed. You might have memories of picking up packs at your local retail store. My dad remembers saving his money and biking up to the local convenience store each week to get as many packs of Topps baseball cards as his allowance would allow. Today’s buyers can still visit retail locations and hobby shops. But more than likely, the acquisition will also include shopping on eBay, Instagram, or other online platforms.

If you collected as a kid, I’d love to hear about the changes you’ve witnessed over the years. Comment below!