There are several fun and potentially profitable options for what to do with old baseball cards you find while cleaning out the attic or an old storage unit. Baseball cards are a true American collectible that have been around for over 150 years, so there’s a good chance you have some gems in your collection that are worth showing off or could generate some cash.
The first step when going through old baseball cards is to carefully examine each one and identify any that seem to be in especially good condition. Near mint or mint condition cards from the early 1960s or prior have the biggest chance of significant value. Look closely at the corners, edges and surface for signs of wear or damage that could hurt the grade if you chose to have them professionally appraised. Aside from condition, cards featuring legendary players like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Willie Mays and more from their rookie seasons or early career are usually the highest value.
Once you’ve picked out potential standouts, your options include showing them off on a subreddit like r/baseballcards where other collectors can offer opinions on value. Be sure to include clear, well lit photos showing all details. The baseball card community on Reddit is large, knowledgeable and usually honest about estimates. You may find interest from another collector looking to add a key piece to their collection. Another online marketplace to potentially sell singles is eBay, where careful packaging and description is a must to attract serious buyers.
For the bulk of common cards, you have a few choices – sell the entire collection as a lot on eBay, donate them to a school or local card shop, or organize them in binders or boxes for your own enjoyment or a younger family member. Even common run-of-the-mill 1960s-80s cards in good condition can sell as a large lot for $50-100 depending on the total count. Donating keeps the hobby going for new generations.
If submission/grading is an option you’d like to explore, identify your 10-20 best cards that could realistically grade as mint condition gems. Know that modern cards have a much higher chance of a perfect grade due to improved printing, while vintage cardboard is difficult to preserve flawlessly over 50+ years. The top two card grading services, PSA and BGS, offer economical bulk submission programs to get an expert opinion on condition and Protect cards in high grade slabs. Even graded mid-range cards over $50 could cover the cost of getting the whole group assessed. Raw ungraded cards are riskier to sell online.
For true high-end valuable classics, work with a reputable sports auction house like Heritage Auctions who will provide insurance and promotion to achieve the best possible price. Consign rare Hall of Famer rookie cards or mint examples of the earliest cards from the late 1800s knowing they have the expertise and buyer network to maximize your return. Auctions charge commission rates around 20% but give access to a global pool of serious collectors.
However you choose to share or sell your old baseball cards, take your time going through them for personal enjoyment first before making any decisions. The hobby can provide entertainment and sometimes income down the line. With care and diligence, that box of childhood memories has potential to connect you with new people who appreciate the history and art of the cardboard treasures of America’s favorite pastime.
In summary – carefully examine for value, showcase online, sell singles or bulk lots, donate to schools, organize your own collection, consider PSA/BGS grading, or consign true high-dollar gems to auction if you’d like to potentially profit from old baseball cards found in your home. Most of all, enjoy the nostalgia of rediscovering a piece of baseball history in your own possession.
