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DOES SCORE STILL MAKE BASEBALL CARDS

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Yes, Score Entertainment still produces baseball cards today, although they have changed ownership multiple times over the years. Score was a major player in the baseball card industry for decades. Some additional context:

Score entered the baseball card market in the 1960s and became known for innovative subsets and serial-numbered parallels that collectors loved. They produced popular sets like Score Board, Filmstars, and O-Pee-Chee throughout the 1970s and 80s. Score’s trademark stained glass-style designs were visually appealing to collectors at the time.

In the late 1980s, the baseball card market became oversaturated as many new companies entered the business chasing profits. The glut of mass-produced cards devalued the entire hobby. By the early 1990s, the baseball card bubble had burst. Score struggled as sales declined industry-wide. In 1992, they were acquired by Fleer Corporation, one of the two remaining major card manufacturers along with Topps.

Fleer consolidated Score’s library and production under their own banner. However, Fleer itself eventually ran into financial troubles due to the softened baseball card market. They sold their entire sports division, including Score assets, to The Topps Company in late 1995. Topps dominated the card industry for much of the remainder of the decade as their main competitor.

In 2006, in another major acquisition, The Topps Company was purchased by corporate investors for $385 million and taken private. There was some concern this might diminish Topps’ long-term commitment to the baseball card industry. Under new ownership, Topps continued operating their traditional card lines normally.

A year later in 2007, another private equity firm bought Fleer Corporation’s brand and intellectual property rights from its former parent company. This new Fleer brand owner licensed the Score name and trademarks to produce dedicated Score brand sets and reissue popular Score designs from the 1990s going forward.

In 2010, Score Entertainment was formally established as an independent company to manage the baseball card rights it had obtained. Score re-launched new flagship product lines like “Score Major League Legacy” in 2012, drawing on archives of classic Score designs from the 1970s and 80s. Subsequent Score sets aimed to faithfully recreate the look and feel of these nostalgic earlier releases.

Throughout the 2010s, Score released annual baseball card sets under license from Major League Baseball and the MLB Players Association. Popular Score branded baseball products of this period included on-demand printed boxes, memorabilia cards with game-used fabric relics, and limited parallels/case-hits from high-tier offerings like “Score Legends” and “Score Platinum.” Score also issued special throwback sets each year.

In 2017, The Topps Company and professional wrestler Daniel Bryan sued Score Entertainment and its licensee claiming infringement of their intellectual property. The case was settled out of court in 2018. Though the terms were not disclosed, Score was allowed to continue baseball card production under new licensing agreements.

Today in 2022, Score remains an active baseball card manufacturer, albeit on a smaller scale compared to their industry dominance in previous eras. They hold licenses from MLB and MLBPA to create new wax box sets annually featuring current players. Score also continues revisiting their archives with retro-styled releases drawing inspiration from the 1970s-90s. While no longer one of the Big Two alongside Topps, Score is still recognized as a pioneering name that helped grow collecting enthusiasm for the hobby. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Score appears committed to sustainably producing new baseball cards year after year going forward that appeal to both modern and vintage collectors alike.

While ownership and production have changed hands multiple times, Score Entertainment maintains an ongoing presence creating officially licensed baseball cards today. They focus on tapping into nostalgia for their classic designs of the past alongside curated new annual releases centered around Major League players and a dedicated collector following. Score’s six-decade history so far suggests they will likely remain engaged in the sport for the foreseeable future.

CAN I MAKE MONEY SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards can potentially be a very lucrative collectible to get into as there is big money to be made if you know what you are doing. It is important to understand that making significant money takes research, patience, and the ability to identify valuable and desirable cards. Just randomly buying and hoping to flip cards for profit will likely not yield good results. Here are some tips and strategies for successfully making money from selling baseball cards:

Research the market and understand card valuations. Take time to research recent sales of cards on platforms like eBay to understand what certain cards in different conditions are truly worth. Don’t rely solely on price guides, as the real sold prices will give you a better idea. Pay attention to trends and learn what factors like player, team, year issued, and especially rookie cards impact value. With research you can identify cards that are undervalued and ripe for profit.

Specialize in a player, team, or era. Trying to have knowledgeable depth across all of baseball history makes things too broad. Focus your collecting and research on a specific player, set of players, team, or era that truly interest you. This allows you to become an expert in that niche and more easily spot opportunities others may miss. For example, specializing solely in Hank Aaron rookie cards could lead to finding affordable raw copies you can clean up and grade to sell for multiples of what you paid.

Condition is king when it comes to value. Only purchase and consider reselling baseball cards that are in the best possible condition. Even fractional differences in grade can have a major impact, so be very particular about the condition of any card you hope to flip later. Consider getting valuable picks professionally graded by services like PSA or BGS to maximize their perceived quality and price. Worn or damaged cards are tough sells no matter thehistorical significance.

Patience is required when buying low and selling high. The most profitable flipping means identifying undervalued cards to purchase and holding them until you find a buyer willing to pay top recent market value. This requires discipline to wait for the right offer rather than settling quickly. Sitting on inventory also ties up your money longer, so starting small is best until you get a feel for the market rhythms. Look for short-term valuation spikes on particular players to pounce rather than trying to time a long-term trend.

Brand yourself as an expert seller. Take nice photos showcasing cards from all angles along with comprehensive condition notes and historical background. Engage with potential buyers, fellow collectors, and community message boards to build positive reviews and trust as someone with extensive product knowledge and a proven track record. Consider offering a grading service to increase average sale prices and provide additional value to customers. With the right online presence, you can attract top dollar offers from serious collectors worldwide.

Always authenticate vintage cards carefully. Older, high-value vintage cards have been forged and faked many times over the decades. Use trusted grading services or expert authenticators to verify legitimacy, as trying to pass off a forgery could destroy your reputation and business. Modern printed cards are usually safe to assume real, but vintage specimens need to be authenticated by professionals before considering resale to serious investors and collectors.

Diversify over time as your knowledge grows. Initially focus on a narrow specialty as mentioned, but over years of experience you’ll gain familiarity across more sets, players, and eras of the sport. This allows expansion into additionalventory with trusted eye and expertise. Diversification mitigates risk compared to relying on the value of just one or a handful of rare cards. It also attracts a wider customer base as you can supply the wants of many different collector niches.

Take advantage of event promotions and publicity. Major milestone anniversaries and new hall of fame inductions can temporarily spike demand and pricing for cards of those players. Make sure to list inventory at these opportunities and be active engaging with customers online. Consider attending major card shows or conventions a few times a year to directly network, buy inventory from other dealers cheaper than retail, and potentially make bigger bulk sale deals with collectors in person. Publicity and marketing is essential for consistent sales volume.

Taxes should also be considered with substantial baseball card profits. Keep detailed records of all purchase and sale transactions for reporting capital gains tax liabilities. Consult with an accountant as needed to ensure everything is filed appropriately according to your country’s tax laws. The income could push collectors into a higher tax bracket so accurate documentation from the start helps avoid any future issues with the tax authorities.

There is excellent profit potential in buying and selling baseball cards for those willing to put in the dedicated research and patience. With practice finding diamonds in the rough, trusted authentication of valuable pieces, well-marketed online presence, and diversification across the player/team/era spectrum, consistent monthly income is very achievable. But gains don’t happen overnight and large consistent payouts requires consistent work. With passion and business smarts applied to the hobby, cards can turn into a worthwhile side business or full-time venture over the long haul.

HOW TO SELL BASEBALL CARDS TO MAKE MONEY

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The baseball card collecting hobby has been around for over 150 years and is a multi-billion dollar industry. While it may seem daunting, with the right approach, knowledge, and guidance, selling baseball cards can be a great way to earn supplemental income. Here are the key steps to successfully sell baseball cards for profit:

Organize and sort your collection. The first step is to carefully go through your entire baseball card collection and organize it in an easy-to-view manner. Sort cards by sport, team, player, year, brand (Topps, Fleer, etc.), and condition. Store them safely in sleeves, pages, or binders. Proper organization will allow you to quickly find cards and make the selling process more efficient.

Assess card conditions and values. Take the time to examine each card closely and assess its near-mint, mint, excellent, very good, good, poor condition based on industry standards. Condition is vital for determining value. Do research on recent sale prices for each specific card using online price guides from websites like Beckett, eBay, and pricing from major cardauction houses like PWCC and Goldin Auctions. Familiarize yourself with what similar condition cards have sold for.

Photograph your high value cards. Once you’ve identified your most expensive and unique cards in your collection, it’s important to photograph them. Take high-quality close-up shots showing the front and back under good lighting. These photos will let serious collectors accurately assess condition when purchasing without having to see the physical card first. Well-lit photos can boost sales for valuable vintage cards worth hundreds or thousands.

Choose sale platforms tailored to your card types. Decide whether to sell individual cards or full sets/collections. For common cards worth $10-50, online auction sites like eBay are ideal. Higher priced vintage cards ($50+) do better on dedicated marketplace sites like Comc.com, Collectors.com or through group sales on Facebook trading/sale pages. Entire old set collections or autographed memorabilia usually sell best through online sports auctions platforms like Lelands.com or HeritageAuctions.com.

Set competitive yet fair prices. Carefully research recently sold “comparable” cards on the platform you choose and competitive market prices. Factor in condition differences and expected demand. Price 5-10% lower than recent comparable sales to attract buyers. Too high and cards won’t sell, too low and you leave money on the table. For mass lots, calculate average estimated value per card to determine fair lot prices.

Market your items strategically. Create well-designed auction/sales listings highlighting the best photos, key details and your packaging/shipping policies. Engage with potential buyers by answering questions promptly. Promote desirable items across trading groups, social media, and collector forums and communities. Strategic marketing can double or triple sales over being a passive seller.

Package securely and ship quickly. Protect cards during shipping with sturdy toploaders or sleeves, then sandwich them between cardboard/photosheets in a rigid mailer or box. Clearly label packages and get tracking for valuable sales. Ship within 1-3 business days of sale to build trust as a reliable seller. Quick shipping keeps buyers happy and returning for future transactions.

Reinvest your proceeds carefully. As profits pile up, consider applying funds to ongoing collection management costs – like new storage supplies, upgraded photography gear or membership site subscription costs. You can also reinvest in more inventory through strategic card purchases at auctions, shows or directly from other collectors to build inventory even further and thus future sales potential.

Selling baseball cards takes effort but can be a fun and potentially lucrative hobby. With proper strategies, research and a careful, organized approach – a collector can utilize their duplicate cards, common sets and valuable singles to generate thousands of dollars a year in extra income through strategic online and live sales. With persistence and consistency, it is possible to turn a passion into profit through the exciting world of sports card collecting.

DO THEY STILL MAKE BASEBALL CARDS WITH BUBBLE GUM

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The tradition of including baseball cards with sticks of bubble gum dates back to the late 1930s. At that time, the Frank Henry Topps Company, which is now known simply as Topps, began experimenting with ways to market and sell baseball cards to children. They realized that bundling the cards with bubble gum was an innovative way to generate interest and incentivize kids to purchase the packs. This business model became wildly popular and helped turn Topps into the dominant manufacturer and distributor of modern baseball cards.

For decades throughout the mid-20th century, it was common for kids to find packs of Topps or other brand baseball cards featuring the latest players, stats, and action shots, along with a piece of bubble gum to enjoy. The combo helped spark children’s interest in collecting cards as well as enjoying a snack. Throughout the 1950s, 60s, 70s, and 80s, Topps baseball card packs with gum remained enormously popular among young fans and collectors. In more recent times, some changes have occurred in regards to the pairing of cards and gum.

While Topps still produces baseball cards today, they have largely moved away from including physical gum with every pack over the past few decades. There are a few key reasons for this shift away from the classic cards plus gum model. One factor is that including gum poses certain logistical and hygienic challenges in terms of packaging, distribution, and preventing moisture damage to the cards. Gum is also more expensive to produce and ship compared to card stock paper alone. Concerns about littering discarded gum wrappers and sticks led many retailers to ban products containing gum from their stores.

These pressures incentivized Topps and other mainstream baseball card manufacturers to move to gum-free models. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, gum slowly disappeared from Topps packs and was replaced by other bonus incentives like team logos or serial numbers. By the 2010s, physical gum was virtually nonexistent in Topps flagship baseball card sets bought in traditional hobby shops or mass-market retailers. Some manufacturers now include digital ‘gum’ coupons or exclusive online-only virtual packs that can be redeemed for digital stickers or emojis instead of real bubble gum.

While traditional gum-inclusive baseball cards have declined, they have not disappeared entirely from the market. A number of smaller independent companies have sprung up over the past decade specifically catering to nostalgic collectors seeking a retro experience. Many of these boutique brands still produce limited edition, high-end runs of baseball cards packaged together with small sticks or slabs of bubble gum hand-inserted into vintage-style wax paper envelopes or tin containers. The inclusion of real gum helps command premium prices of $10 or more per pack from dedicated hobbyists.

While mass-produced Topps packs found in stores are now gum-free, the company has created special annual or limited “Gum Edition” release sets primarily sold online directly to collectors. These exclusive runs go back to bundling individual cards with true bubble gum pieces or gumballs to satisfy die-hard fans longing for the original experience. Topps also occasionally still produces special summer or holiday “Gum only” packs sold in independent card shops as a nichey nod to history. Some ballparks even sell retro-style cards plus gum bundles as a nostalgic concession item.

While the inclusion of bubble gum inserts declined for practical reasons within mainstream baseball cards sold widely in stores, the tradition has certainly not been forgotten amongst collectors and niche manufacturers. Periodic releases going back to the classic combo of cards and chewing gum help satisfy history buffs and allow a newer generation to experience what captivated so many young fans over many decades following the late 1930s innovation by Topps. So while rare in typical new packs today, the linkage of baseball cards and bubble gum remains alive as a collectible specialty item keeping alive memories of simpler times at the local candy store.

HOW MUCH MONEY CAN YOU MAKE SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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The amount of money someone can make by selling baseball cards truly varies significantly based on a wide range of factors. While it is possible to generate thousands, tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars by selling rare and valuable baseball cards, for most people a career selling cards would not be all that lucrative or sustainable as a long-term job or business.

That said, with the right inventory, sales skills, and market conditions, it is certainly feasible to generate a modest but meaningful secondary income by buying and selling baseball cards on the side. To understand how much profit is realistic, it helps to examine some of the key variables that influence sales value and return on investment.

One major factor is the specific cards being sold. Common modern cards worth just pennies each obviously won’t add up to much. Rare vintage rookie cards of all-time greats graded in Near Mint or better condition can fetch thousands or even hundreds of thousands at auction. Iconic cards like a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle in Near Mint could sell for over $500,000. Even more reasonably, a T206 Honus Wagner R-101 could go for $100,000+ in good condition.

Of course, finding cards of that caliber and rarity is extremely unlikely without a large inventory and deep pockets to purchase such high-end pieces. A more realistic measure of profitability comes from studying completed sales of common cards through third-party grading services like PSA and BGS, as well as auction results from reputable auction houses like Heritage, Goldin, and Lelands.

For popular modern stars in pristine Gem Mint 10 condition, reasonable sale prices tend to range from $5-50 each. Mid-grade vintage stars from the 1950s-1980s can sell from $10-200 depending on the player and year. Even low-grade vintage commons may fetch $5-20 each if a complete or key set is being assembled. With diligence, a few hundred dollars could be made each month sourcing and reselling such mid-tier cards.

Time and costs must be accounted for. It takes significant effort to research market prices, source desirable inventory from collectors and shops, submit cards to grading services, photograph and list items, handle customer inquiries, manage payments and shipping, and more. Subscription fees to sell on platforms like eBay also eat into profits.

After factoring in typical 50-60% estimated costs including what was paid to acquire inventory, grading/submission fees, and selling/transaction fees, a typical net profit margin of 30-50% on resale value could be expected. Even on low $5-10 cards, a few dollars’ profit each adds up over dozens or hundreds of transactions.

Someone focussed full-time could potentially do quite well by investing heavily in choice cards, dealership supplies in bulk at lower cost, renting retail space for higher margins, employing others for efficiency, and maximizing sales channels. But for most, it is more of a hobby business than a primary career. Consistently making even a few hundred dollars monthly after expenses through card sales and purchases is very achievable with experience and the right inventory approach. Of course, big profit hits from exceptionally rare finds are always possible too for those with the resources to take on more risk.

While striking it rich through baseball cards is unlikely for any one individual as a sole and ongoing source of high income, with dedication to building inventory, managing costs tightly, and leveraging sales expertise over time, a secondary profit stream averaging perhaps $500-2,000 per month after expenses seems very achievable through card flipping done intelligently as a side business. For those willing to put in the work, it presents a fun and profitable way to enjoy America’s pastime off the field as well.

HOW TO MAKE MONEY COLLECTING BASEBALL CARDS

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There are several potential ways that a person can make money by collecting baseball cards. One of the most straightforward approaches is to buy cards that are cheaper than their current market value, then resell them for a profit after holding them for a period of time. Doing so requires research into the current and potential future value of different players, years, sets and variations. Having expertise in valuing cards properly is important to purchasing the right items to resell at a higher price point.

Some specific strategies include buying cards of young prospects who could break out before their next cards are printed. This happens regularly in baseball, so identifying the next Mike Trout or Ronald Acuña Jr. before a new season could net a big return. Another approach is finding undervalued vintage cards from the 1950s-1980s. Many older cards have appreciated greatly as the hobby has grown. Scouring yard sales, estate sales, and thrift shops for undiscovered gems that can sell for hundreds or thousands with the right grading is a potential money maker.

Focusing on special parallel inserts, autographed cards, and rookie cards / prospect cards inserted in modern sets is another approach. These rarer cards tend to hold their value better or appreciate more over time compared to basic base cards. Getting in early before players establish themselves can yield profits down the line. Examples include rookie autographs of Juan Soto, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., or Eloy Jiménez which have greatly increased in value from when those players were just coming up.

Getting cards professionally graded is important when looking to sell valuable finds for top dollar. Third party grading provides authentication, preservation in protective holders, and standardizes condition assessment. A PSA or BGS graded 9 or 10 rookie card typically sells for far more than an ungraded version. This added value from grading should be factored into an investing strategy focused on long term appreciation.

Another money-making approach is to hunt for the most valuable and desired vintage subsets, variations and parallels at trade shows, conventions, and one-off sales. Examples include the 1952 Topps set, 1954 Bowman color sets, 1955 Topps rare variations, and 1973 Topps stars subset. Patience is needed to find deals on high-end cards, but profits can be significant when the right finds are properly marketed to active collectors.

Flipping collections as a whole can also generate income. Buy out entire collections or lots containing hundreds or thousands of cards, then resell them efficiently through online auctions, buy-it-now listings, or consigments to card shops. Often entire collections can be acquired cheaply from disinterested heirs or sellers just looking to liquidate. Careful scanning is needed to pull any valuable singles to sell individually at higher prices before listing common duplicates in bulk lots.

For card investors seeking regular income, dividend investing strategies have emerged. This involves buying up desirable base sets over time to hold as an investment rather than quickly reselling. Then broken complete sets are piecemeal sold to collectors looking to finish rosters, with the profits reinvested. Through steady accumulation and sales over bull and bear cycling in the hobby, annual returns through “dividends” can be generated.

Long term appreciation also provides income potential. Storing valuable vintage and modern rookie cards away to gain 40-100% every 5-10 years lets natural market forces create profits over decades. Liquidating strategically during peak vintage booms provides capital to reallocate. Patience and buying low is key, as the highest returns come from investments held 10+ years as demand cycles affect prices.

Making consistent money buying and selling cards requires diligent research, a long term outlook, and expert knowledge of the factors driving the collectibles market. With the right approach, analysis, patience and deal-finding acumen, significant profits are possible. But it is important to understand baseball cards remain a discretionary hobby and market fluctuations can lead to short term losses as well. For dedicated collectors who study the way values change, treating the pastime as a business enhances potential financial returns significantly over time.

The most knowledgeable and successful baseball card investors employ diverse strategies focused on undervalued vintage cards, identifying emerging star rookies before breakouts occur, hunting rare modern parallels and inserts, flipping entire collections, and dividend investing or buy-and-hold methods. Combining discovery of overlooked value with the appreciation seen in well-curated long term holdings provides multiple avenues to realize gains from the ever-evolving market surrounding America’s pastime on cardboard. With dedication to continual research and understanding investing principles, cards offer collectors avenues to make money aligned with their passion.

CAN YOU MAKE MONEY TRADING BASEBALL CARDS

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Trading baseball cards can definitely be a way for collectors to make money, but it does require significant effort, knowledge, patience and skill. While the baseball card market fluctuates over time like any other collecting niche, with dedication it is possible to profit from buying and selling cards on the secondary market. Here are some of the key factors to consider when determining if card trading can be a profitable endeavor:

The baseball card market is driven by supply and demand dynamics. Certain players, seasons, sets and specialty cards consistently hold strong retail value while others are more volatile depending on player performance and team success. It’s important for anyone looking to make money in cards to do in-depth research on historical sale comparables, current market values, upcoming product releases and team/player news that could impact collectability. Sites like eBay allow you to analyze recently sold listings to gauge pricing trends. Developing expertise in value fluctuations and speculating on future increases is key.

Proper condition grading is also crucial, as even minor flaws can significantly decrease a card’s worth. The industry-standard grading service is Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), who assigns designations of Gem Mint (10), Near Mint (9) etc. A PSA 10 copy of a star rookie card can be 10X or more valuable than a lower-grade version. Learning how to accurately assess centering, corners and surfaces takes study. Sending popular cards to be slabbed by PSA adds authentication and drives up resale prices, but involves costs that need factored.

Buying low and selling high is the obvious strategy, but achieving this in practice requires diligent searching of local collectibles shops, card shows, online auctions on eBay, Comc and Target as well as breaking unopened boxes/cases for hits. Developing connections with experienced dealers can give early access to desirable finds before the secondary market values them. Flipping commons/uncommons quickly for small profits adds up over time. Making accurate offers on cards through want lists on trading forums and social media expands sourcing ability.

Storage and shipping costs, auction/consignment fees, grading expenses and other infrastructure demands need considered. A home office and supplies budget allows optimized operations. Well-lit photography of listings enhances sales potential. Creating an online presence through a personal site or YouTube channel to build authority and gain followers expecting regular, fairly-priced inventory adds promotional potential.

Patience is key, as trying to rush monetization often backfires through missed valuation opportunities or losses on impulse purchases. Several years of study, collection development and market immersement are usually required before sustainable profitability is feasible. Many seasoned traders treat it as a part-time second career rather than quick money-making scheme. Taxes also need accounted for by those with recurring high revenue.

While star RCs and rare vintage can provide windfalls, consistency comes through diversified inventory, not chasing speculative boom/bust hits. Investment in a wide range of eras, sets, parallels and prospects across all sports maximizes viable inventory and spreads risk compared to focusing on only the latest prospects. Leveraging wholesale supplier connections further expands sustainable supply sources from breaks of factory sets.

Making baseball cards a career or profitable side-hustle is very doable for driven individuals with business skills and long-term vision. But speculative gambles, impatience and lack of market understanding can quickly erase resources. With education, devotion to research/grading/connections and strategy, card trading offers collectors potential to realize ongoing profits through their passion. Sustainable scale takes years to achieve, but the market remains strong and viable for shrewd operators.

Dedicating sufficient time, effort and resources into developing expertise, strategic sourcing, grading/storage, sales optimization and patience makes earning an income through baseball card trading fully attainable, though not guaranteed. Success requires ongoing education, discipline against emotional risks and grinding through fluctuations, but results are achievable for passionate collectors able to approach it as a serious venture.

CAN YOU MAKE MONEY SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Selling baseball cards on eBay is a fairly common side business or hobby for many people. Done right, it is certainly possible to generate a reliable income stream by selling cards on the popular online marketplace. Here are some of the key factors to consider when weighing whether baseball card sales on eBay can be profitable:

There is certainly strong demand and active buyers on eBay searching for baseball cards. Baseball continues to be one of the most popular sports in America and card collecting remains a large hobby. On any given day there are thousands of active listings for individual baseball cards as well as complete card sets, teams, years and more. This robust marketplace means sellers have access to potential customers all over the world looking to buy cards. As long as listings are well-presented and priced competitively, cards can usually find buyers and transact regularly.

In terms of supplying product to sell, there are many potential avenues. Some sellers source cards from their own personal collections which they amassed over time. Others may buy storage units, attend card shows and conventions, or go to local card shops and thrift stores to acquire inventory to later flip for a profit online. With a bit of experience identifying valuable cards, deals can often be found this way. Repacks or card lots bought in bulk are another cost-effective way to build up a supply of cards, including hits, to sell individually.

Pricing cards accurately based on their conditions and variances is important. Using eBay’s sold filter and tracking recent sales of comparable cards helps sellers understand fair market value. Underpricing valuable cards means leaving money on the table, while overpricing will result in items not selling. Taking the time for condition analyses, identifying key details, and properly positioning listings versus competitors is needed. High quality photos that clearly show card fronts and backs are also important for building buyer confidence.

With so many active buyers and competitive selling, volume is generally needed to consistently earn good income on eBay from baseball cards. Sourcing 10, 20 or 30 new cards daily to list will result in a steady stream ofnew inventory entering the sales pipeline. Over time with enough listings and transactions completed, total monthly sales revenue can grow large enough to be a primary or secondary source of profits. Reinvesting initial earnings back into acquiring more cards to relist helps accelerate this growth model.

Factors like seller performance ratings, quick shipping, and positive customer experiences help build a loyal customer base over time as well. Return buyers are more likely to pay a premium and purchase higher ticket items. Communication, flexibility and problem solving for any post-sale issues also keeps customers happy and repeat business coming back. Customer service and relationships hold significant value in any online marketplace business like this.

There are some challenges to contend with as well. Competition from other experienced card sellers pursuing the same customers requires constant efforts to maintain strong visibility and customer acquisition. Pricing pressures from undercutting competitors squeeze potential profit margins over time if adjusting strategies are not enacted. Accurately grading cards and avoiding scams or counterfeits present risks without diligence. Transaction fees, shipping supplies and time investments cut into net profits if sale volumes are not high enough.

Still, with the right approach, supply and fulfillment systems, baseball card sales on eBay can absolutely be a lucrative money-maker for dedicated sellers. Many full-time professional sports card and memorabilia merchants got their start simply flipping cards online and scaling up over months and years. For hobbyists, it can supplement other income sources. Volume plays a key role, but creativity in sourcing, pricing strategy, presentation, and customer service all factor into realizing consistent profits over the long haul. With active buyers constantly seeking new items, the potential is there for dedicated sellers.

Selling baseball cards on eBay can certainly produce reliable earnings potential. It requires continual efforts to source new inventory cost-effectively, list competitively-priced items, provide top-notch customer experiences, and find advantages over competitors chasing the same customers. Building volume, solid seller ratings, and a loyal customer base plays a major role in nudging profits higher over the long run as a business. For dedicated sellers with patience and willingness to optimize strategies, baseball card sales on eBay holds the possibility to become a profitable money-maker.

WHEN DID FLEER MAKE BASEBALL CARDS

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Fleer Corporation originated as a chewing gum company based in Philadelphia in 1899. Founders Frank and Louis Fleer began producing and selling bubble gum in 1920. In the late 1950s, the popularity of collected sports cards was rapidly growing. Fleer saw an opportunity and decided to start producing their own line of gum-backed baseball cards to include in packages with their bubble gum.

In 1956, Fleer obtained a license from Major League Baseball and Bowman Gum dropped out of the baseball card market after 25 years as a leader in the industry. This opened the door for Fleer to become the second main baseball card manufacturer alongside Topps. Fleer’s 1956 debut set included 112 cards showing photos and stats for players from the American and National Leagues. Each pack contained a piece of Fleer bubble gum as well as four random baseball cards. Notable rookies included Hall of Famers Don Drysdale and Roger Maris.

In 1957, Fleer released their second set which included 107 cards. Competition with Topps was stiff but Fleer aimed to set themselves apart by using colorful action shot photos on their cards instead of small headshots like Topps used. Fleer also tried new marketing tactics, distributing teaser cards offering free packs to drum up excitement. Issues plagued Fleer including photo quality concerns and struggling to properly centering the printing on some cards which collectors disliked.

By 1958, Fleer lost their MLB partnership and was out of the baseball card business for a few years as Topps became the undisputed dominant leader in the sports card industry. Fleer faced legal issues for using photos of current MLB players without permission. Topps had been more proactive in locking up exclusive licensing deals with both MLB and the major baseball players association.

Fleer remained focused on their gum business and other confectionery products through the 1960s. They observed Topps continue to dominate the baseball card market with various innovative sets each year. By the late 1960s, Fleer saw opportunity again to try breaking back into the baseball card sector and this time they were determined to establish the proper licensing agreements needed.

In 1971, Fleer successfully obtained an MLB group licensing deal allowing them use of team logos and uniforms in their new baseball card designs. They also signed individual picture use agreements with over 300 players for the upcoming 1971 Fleer baseball card set. This was a monumental undertaking that took months of negotiations and paperwork but got Fleer back in the baseball card game properly after over a decade away.

Fleer’s return in 1971 with their “Fleer Football & Fleer Hockey” set as well as the new “Fleer Baseball” series was a bold move. They used striking new action photo styles on a white background to stand out versus Topps’ typical headshot designs. Rookie cards in the 1971 Fleer set included Hall of Famers George Brett and Mike Schmidt. Their distribution methods were also improved versus their debut run in the 1950s.

Through the 1970s and 80s, Fleer established themselves as the top competitor to industry leader Topps. They released innovative baseball card sets each year featuring the biggest MLB stars and rookies. Fleer also obtained licenses to produce cards for other sports like basketball, football, and hockey. Notable baseball sets and moments during this golden era of Fleer cards included producing the first Traded set in 1975, issuing the iconic “Stars of the 70s” inserts in 1976, and featuring rookie cards for all-time greats like Cal Ripken Jr. in 1981.

Fleer helped popularize foil cards, special inserts, oddball sets focused on specific player achievements or fun themes, and experimenting with new cardboard materials beyond the traditional Bazooka-style gum packs. During this peak period, Fleer’s production quality rivaled Topps and they captured nearly 40% of the baseball card market share which was unprecedented for the number two brand. Icons like Ozzie Smith and Rickey Henderson had some of their most memorable rookie cards produced in Fleer sets through the 1970s and 80s.

In the 1990s, Fleer’s baseball card output remained strong but they also diversified by obtaining NBA and NFL licenses to further challenge Topps. This decade brought many parallels sets and inserts alongside traditional base cards for all major sports. Rookie cards for future Hall of Famers like Chipper Jones arrived in Fleer packages on store shelves. Towards the late 90s however, Fleer was facing growing competition from Upper Deck and other new manufacturers entering the sports card boom.

By the 2000s, Fleer had been sold to industry giant Upper Deck which owned the brand through multiple subsequent acquisitions and mergers. Although Fleer baseball cards continued to be released at a lower profile through the 2000s and 2010s, the brand’s illustrious 60+ year history pioneered innovations and forged fierce rivalry with Topps that helped elevate the hobby bigger than any other manufacturer. Fleer cards remain some of the most iconic and collectible in the industry, encapsulating MLB’s greatest eras through memorable photography, design work, and delivering star rookies to fans. Their contributions secured Fleer’s long lasting legacy within the baseball card world.

Fleer played an integral role in the sports card industry from their first foray producing baseball cards in 1956 through multiple decades of competition with Topps. They helped revolutionize the market and captured huge popularity and memorable rookie cards through the 1970s-90s golden age. Despite merging with Upper Deck, Fleer’s progressive impact and classic designs are still appreciated today by collectors and card fans alike for documenting MLB history.

WILL TOPPS MAKE BASEBALL CARDS IN 2024

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It is highly likely that Topps will continue to make baseball cards in 2024. Topps has been the leading manufacturer and distributor of baseball cards for decades, with a rich history dating back to the 1950s. While nothing is ever guaranteed so far in advance, there are several reasons to expect Topps will maintain their baseball card business three years from now.

To begin, Topps remains the exclusive license holder from Major League Baseball for physical baseball cards sold in packs, boxes and related products. Their deal is set to run through 2025 after recently extending the partnership. Maintaining the MLB license is crucial for Topps, as it allows them exclusive access to team logos, uniforms and player likenesses and statistics. Without the license, Topps would struggle to produce a baseball card product. The recent contract extension indicates both parties expect their relationship to continue through at least 2025.

Financially, baseball cards also remain an important and profitable business for Topps. While digital platforms have become a bigger part of their portfolio in recent years, physical cards still account for a significant portion of overall revenue. In 2021, Topps reported baseball card sales of $450 million. While sales have declined some from their peak, baseball cards are still a core product fueling Topps’ business. As long as demand remains strong from collectors and fans, Topps will see baseball cards as a smart place to stay invested.

Another factor working in Topps’ favor is a lack of serious competition within the baseball card market. While smaller manufacturers exist, Topps is dominant with around 80-90% market share. Their exclusive MLB deal and vast distribution/retail network gives them a huge advantage competitors can’t match. No other company has shown they could realistically challenge and displace Topps at this point. With no major threats on the horizon, Topps is unlikely to relinquish their leading baseball card position.

The overall sports card market has also demonstrated continued stability and growth potential out towards 2024 and beyond. Collectibles in general have proven recession-resistant, with younger generations joining the hobby amid rising nostalgia and interest each year. Average sales prices for classic vintage cards and new rookie stars keep increasing as well. This positive industry environment suggests baseball cards will remain a collectible investors and fans want to buy three years from now.

Looking specifically at 2024, that year’s regular season will mark the 150th anniversary of professional baseball. This important milestone is sure to drive increased excitement, promotions, nostalgia and collector interest across the entire baseball ecosystem. As the longstanding leader in baseball cards, Topps will be well-positioned to leverage special products commemorating this historic anniversary event. The 150th season provides another data point indicating ongoing baseball card opportunities.

A final consideration is the lack of any looming MLB television or digital media contracts that could impact Topps’ baseball card business in 2024. Their exclusive license does not expire until 2025, so Topps can focus on baseball card operations without disruption from those types of negotiations. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Topps has a clear runway to 2024 where they hold all the advantages in the baseball card market.

While impossible to say definitively so far in advance, Topps’ exclusive MLB relationship, financial dependence on baseball cards as a core product, lack of competitors, continued collector demand and interest, positive sports collectibles industry momentum and the significant MLB 150th anniversary all portend Topps will very likely still be producing baseball cards successfully in 2024. Their vast experience and dominance in the space also give Topps plenty of flexibility to navigate unexpected challenges in the interim. For these reasons, it’s a very safe bet Topps will maintain their legendary baseball card presence three years from now.