The value of an autographed baseball card really depends on several factors. A card merely featuring an autograph usually does not add significant value on its own. When the right autograph is obtained on the right card in the right condition, it can be a very worthwhile investment or collectors item. Here are some of the key things that determine the value of an autographed baseball card:

The Player – By far the most important factor is who signed the card. Cards signed by all-time great players from previous eras will generally be worth the most. Legends like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays, etc. hold immense value simply because of their iconic status in the game. Modern superstars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper also command high prices due to their talents and popularity. Role players or career minor leaguers won’t move the needle much.

The Card – You’ll want an autographed card of the player from when they were actively playing in the major leagues. Rookie cards signed are especially sought after by collectors. Examine the year, brand/set and any distinctive variations. Mint condition vintage cards signed increase exponentially in worth versus a played card in tatters. Cartoon/meme cards don’t carry value even with big names.

Authenticity – Make sure the autograph itself is legitimate and not a forgery. Stick to cards obtained directly from a signing/public appearance with proof like a signed autograph certificate. Authenticated cards through reputable grading services add security and tend to sell at auction for top dollar. Even questions surrounding authenticity can devalue a card significantly.

Grade/Condition – Heavily impacts price is the physical state of the autographed card. Near mint to gem mint grades of BGS/PSA 9+ hold multifold value over a well-loved, played card in grade 6-7 condition. Signings directly on the card can damage surfaces lowering grades versus obtained on a separate autograph adjunct. A flawless signed card retains peak collectability.

Rarity/Exclusivity – Numbered parallels, rare short printed variations, inaugural season/rookie cards hold higher collectability when autographed versus common base cards. The fewer produced, more exclusive the format, greater the perceived scarcity and demand. Autograph relic/jersey cards with swatches further enhance rarity through game-used memorabilia.

Supply and Demand – Scarcity always affects value. Higher-graded signed rookie cards for breakout players are worth exponentially more after MVP seasons and potential Hall-of-Fame inductions versus primes when 1000s were produced. As player pools shrink and demand from nostalgia collectors grows, surviving specimens command top dollar when offered at auction.

Some examples that illustrate how all these factors align to drive significant value for autographed baseball cards include:

A PSA 9 graded 1909 T206 Tobacco Brand Honus Wagner is considered the most prized possession in the hobby, having sold for over $2 million. The extreme rarity and condition drives its record-setting worth.

Autographed 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie cards in BGS/PSA 8+ grade fetch $100,000-200,000 routinely at goldinauctions due to his fame, limited print run, and scarce survivors in pristine condition spanning over 60 years after signing.

A recent autograph signing produced 2012 Topps Update Mike Trout rookie autograph relic patch card parallel numbered to 10 was privately purchased for $40,000. His emerging legend status, the rarity of a swatch auto from his debut season cards, and limited quantity prints all increased demand.

At the opposite end, a signed 1988 Donruss Wade Boggs common base card in played VG-EX condition might sell for under $50 online today. It has no cache as a rookie/stamp of greatness, and abundant supply available on the market.

Only when all the right attributes align from player, card, signature authenticity, grade, and exclusivity will autographed baseball cards realize true blue-chip value for collectors and investors. Staple Hall of Fame talents, on coveted rookie or early career cards, in high grades with proof and rarity boost demand exponentially compared to average signings. Done right, autographed cardboard holds potential to delight and gain significant worth over time.