The first step to getting your baseball cards appraised is to choose an experienced and reputable appraiser. There are several options to consider when selecting an appraiser. You can ask local card shops, auction houses, or baseball memorabilia dealers if they provide appraisal services or if they can recommend a trusted appraiser. Another good option is to search for appraisers online that specialize in sports collectibles valuation. Be sure to read reviews from past clients to ensure they provide accurate and reliable appraisals.
Once you’ve selected an appraiser, it’s important to properly prepare your cards before sending them. Collect all the cards together you want appraised and sort them by sport, player, year, set, etc. This will make it easier for the appraiser to efficiently review each card. Then, package your cards securely for shipping using stiff cardboard, plastic sleeves, or toploaders to prevent damage during transit. Include your name, return address, phone number and email so the appraiser can contact you with any questions.
Most appraisers charge a fee for their services which is typically based on the number of cards being appraised or the estimated total value. Fees usually range from $5-15 per card but can be higher or lower depending on the appraiser. Be sure to ask up front about their pricing structure so there are no surprises. You may need to provide payment in advance either by check, money order or PayPal to cover the appraisal costs.
Once the appraiser receives your package, they will carefully examine each card. All relevant details will be noted such as the sport, year, manufacturer, player, condition and any identifying numbers on the back. Card conditions are graded on a scale, most commonly using the 1-10 point Sheets/Beckett scale where a 1 is poor condition and a 10 is perfect gem mint. Factors taken into consideration for grading include centering, corners, edges and surface/paint.
In addition to grading the condition, the appraiser will research sale prices for comparable graded examples. They will consult databases, price guides and analyze recent auction results to determine fair market values. For higher value vintage cards ($500+), they may also check against industry standards like the PSA/DNA SMR (Sports Market Report). All results will then be detailed in a full written appraisal report.
This report will list each individual card along with descriptions of important details, assigned condition grades and fair market value estimates. It’s a good idea to request replacement values versus just current market prices in case any unforeseen events damage your collection in the future. Reputable appraisers will sign and provide certification of their qualifications and the values given.
Armed with a professional third party appraisal, you’ll have a credible basis for both insurance and donation purposes going forward. Appraisals are typically good for one year but you can request reappraisal if needed due to significant market changes. Most experienced dealers accept certified appraisals at face value when purchasing whole collections. And in the event any cards ever need to be claimed or items need to be replaced due to loss or damage, the appraisal provides documented proof of values.
Getting your baseball cards professionally appraised by a qualified service is an important step to fully understand what you have, its true worth, and sets you up to best protect your potentially valuable collectibles long term. Taking the time for a proper appraisal with a reputable expert ensures you get accurate and supportable valuations.
