The first step is to sort through your baseball card collection and identify which cards are worth selling. Focus on higher value vintage cards from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, as well as modern rookie cards of star players. Do some research on eBay to get an idea of current market values for particular players and years. Make sure to inspect each card closely and only select cards that are in good condition without any creases, corners, bends, or other flaws that could hurt their value.

Once you’ve identified the cards you want to sell, you’ll need to decide where to sell them – online on a site like eBay, or locally to try to get cash right away. Selling locally at a sports card shop or collector event is ideal if you want cash in-hand quickly, but you may not get top dollar that way. Taking the time to sell individually on eBay gives you the opportunity to get the best prices but it will take longer to complete sales.

Whether selling locally or online, make sure the cards are packaged securely in sleeves, toploaders or magnetic holders to avoid damage in transit. For local sales, bring the sorted cards in a well-organized binder or box to make it easy for buyers to look through. Price the cards competitively based on your research but be open to offers as well.

For local sales, call around to sports card shops in your area to ask if they buy collections and what their purchase process entails. They may offer you a lump sum on the spot or look through your cards and make individual offers, and payment would be instant. Some local hobby shops, comic stores and collector conventions also allow individuals to set up vendor tables to sell directly.

You can also sell locally through a platform like Facebook Marketplace. Take clear, well-lit photos of the higher value cards and batches of common cards. Provide descriptions of players, years and conditions. For local pickup, only handle cash transactions for safety. Meet buyers in a public place like a police station parking lot during daylight for the exchange.

If you decide to sell cards online through eBay, take the time to photograph and list each valuable card individually rather than as lots. Clearly describe the card specifics, grade it conservatively and accurately represent any flaws. Check recently sold listings for similar cards to determine a competitive starting bid or fixed “Buy It Now” price. Only ship cards securely packaged in a rigid mailer or box. Require signature confirmation for valuable items.

Through eBay and shipping your cards will reach a wider potential buyer base but fees will cut into your profits. Still, online auctions typically achieve the highest prices compared to local shops. Just be prepared for a longer selling cycle rather than immediate cash. With some research and a careful, organized selling process, you can maximize the returns from your baseball card collection.