Evansville, Indiana has a rich history with baseball and as a result, several specialty baseball card shops have opened over the years to cater to the city’s passionate fanbase. Whether you’re a lifelong collector looking to add to your collection or a newcomer wanting to learn more about the hobby, Evansville has plenty of great local stores to choose from.
One of the most well-known and longest running baseball card stores in Evansville is A & M Sports Collectibles, located at 5101 N First Ave. Owned and operated by Allen Meyer, A & M Sports Collectibles has been in business since 1984, making it among the earliest specialty baseball card shops in the city. Walking into A & M Sports Collectibles is like stepping back in time, as the store maintains its original layout and displays from when it first opened almost 40 years ago. While the store may not have the flashy modern design of newer competitors, what it lacks in style it more than makes up for in authentic vintage charm and knowledge. Allen and his staff have decades of experience in the hobby and take pride in helping both new and experienced collectors. In addition to carrying all the latest releases from Topps, Panini, and other major brands, A & M Sports Collectibles also has a massive inventory of vintage cards dating back to the early 20th century. They are renowned for having some of the most valuable and rare vintage cards in the Midwest that are available to buy or trade. Whether you’re a kid just starting out or a seasoned collector with a six-figure collection, A & M Sports Collectibles is a can’t miss destination for any baseball cards fan visiting Evansville.
Another locally owned option is Sports Cards Etc., located at 6151 E Lloyd Expy #120. Opened in the 1990s by former collector Rob Elpers, Sports Cards Etc. has grown to become one of the largest and most well-stocked card shops in Southern Indiana. While their selection of new releases certainly rivals the big box hobby shops, Sports Cards Etc. prides itself most on its expansive vintage inventory that is constantly being added to through collections they purchase. Walking into their store feels more like browsing a baseball memorabilia museum, as every inch of the walls and display cases are covered in rare finds that even the most diehard collectors will be envious of. Whether you collect stars of the past like Mickey Mantle and Ted Williams or modern greats like Mike Trout and Shohei Ohtani, Sports Cards Etc. is virtually guaranteed to have something to spark your interest. Beyond cards, they also carry an impressive array of autographed balls, bats, jerseys, and other collectibles for sale. Rob and his knowledgeable staff provide friendly, patient service and are always excited to discuss the hobby with customers young and old. Sports Cards Etc. is a can’t miss destination for any true baseball cards enthusiast.
For those looking for a larger retail experience with all the amenities of a big box hobby shop, D&B Sports Cards and Memorabilia at 5330 N First Ave is worth checking out. Opened in 2008, D&B occupies a massive 15,000 square foot space that houses what is likely the largest and most diverse inventory of any card shop in Southern Indiana. In addition to carrying all the latest and greatest card releases, D&B also stocks an incredible amount of memorabilia, equipment, apparel, and other ancillary items for every major sport. Their massive selection of vintage cards and autograph memorabilia is truly spectacular to browse through and includes some of the rarest vintage finds you’ll find outside an auction house. Beyond their expansive retail space, D&B also regularly hosts release parties, autograph signings, group breaks, and tournaments that draw collectors from all over the region. The staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful, with buyers also on hand to evaluate collections and make purchase offers. For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the hobby, D&B Sports Cards is an unparalleled one stop shop experience.
While the above three stores are among the largest and most well established in Evansville, there are also a few smaller niche shops that local collectors appreciate. For those focused solely on vintage cards, Evansville Vintage Cards at 1011 Parrett St is worth checking out. Owned by lifelong collector Mark Weber, Evansville Vintage Cards specializes exclusively in vintage cards from the 1800s-1980s, with an extensive inventory of pre-war tobacco cards, vintage autos, and game used memorabilia. They buy, sell, and trade vintage, and Mark enjoys sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of vintage players and sets with customers. Also worth mentioning is Game Time Sports Cards at 6305 Covert Ave, a smaller local shop owned by father and son duo Steve and Nick Carter. While their retail space is more limited, Game Time makes up for it with their friendly service, competitive prices, and knowledgeable expertise that the Carters have gained over 30+ years in the hobby together. They are a favorite of many local collectors.
Whether you’re a casual browser or hardcore collector, Evansville offers an impressive array of specialty baseball card shops with knowledgeable staff and diverse inventories to suit any interest. From value vintage finds to high-end modern autographs, these local stores are a treasure trove waiting to be explored by fans of America’s pastime and the hobby surrounding it. With such a variety of great locally owned options, Evansville has firmly established itself as a baseball cards destination that any collector would enjoy visiting.
