Tag Archives: selling

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON MERCARI

Leave a reply

Selling Baseball Cards on Mercari: A Comprehensive Guide

Baseball cards have been a beloved collectible for generations. With the rising popularity of apps like Mercari that allow hobbyists to buy and sell directly with each other, selling baseball cards online has become a lucrative business opportunity. To succeed on Mercari requires knowing how to effectively market, photograph, price and ship your cards. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know to start profiting from your baseball card collection on Mercari.

Getting Started

The first step is to download the free Mercari app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Create a profile with your name and location, then link a valid payment method like a bank account or debit/credit card. Mercari charges a 10% fee on each completed sale to cover transaction processing and shipping label discounts. They also offer a free shipping discount to buyers on all orders over $35.

Photographing Your Cards

High quality photos are essential to attract buyers. Make sure your cards are in near mint or better condition without creases, stains or other flaws before listing. Use a light colored surface and natural lighting for photography. Hold the card firmly but gently between your fingers so it lies flat without bending. For rarer or more valuable cards, take extra closeup photos of any identifying signatures, markings or imperfections.

When uploading photos, choose the highest resolution your device allows. Make sure all details are clear without shadows or glare. Include at least one full body shot of the front and back of each card for reference. List any relevant information like the year, set, player or rating in the caption or description for search optimization. Well-lit, sharply focused photos will make your cards stand out from poorly photographed listings.

Pricing Your Cards Accurately

Researching sold comps on eBay is the best way to price baseball cards properly for Mercari. Look up the same player, year and condition to get a sense of recent selling prices. Factor in any unique attributes that may increase or decrease value like autographs, serial numbers or defects. It’s better to price cards slightly higher than risk underselling. But be competitive with active listings from other sellers.

Include details like the brand (Topps, Bowman, etc.), specific set or series, player name, position and any identifying codes or numbers in the title. Proper keywords allow buyers to easily search and find your listings. Price cards individually whenever possible for maximum visibility. Lots or bundles tend to get fewer views long term on Mercari. Stick with standard price increments (99 cents, $2.49, $4.99 etc.) for optimized searching.

Promoting and Selling Your Listings

Once live, promote new listings periodically by sharing them to followers. Share at different times of day when traffic is higher. Aim to share each listing at least 3-5 times over the first few days to reach new eyes. Respond to any questions from interested buyers promptly to build trust. Consider offering combined shipping discounts for multiple wins to entice bulk purchases from collectors.

Be prepared to negotiate within reason if buyers make offers. Gently educate lowball bidders on fair market value if needed. But also stay flexible, as moving inventory quickly is important too. Accept non-local cash offers only if the buyer agrees to pay for tracked insured shipping. Shipment confirmation emails are auto-generated on Mercari for seller and buyer protection after items are marked shipped by the seller.

Shipping and Post-Sale Support

Use sturdy toploaders or cardboard backing for added protection during shipment. Ensure any valuable cards are sufficiently padded against damage from crushing. Mercari provides discounted USPS shipping labels at checkout to choose from including First Class mail up to 16oz or priority options. Package securely, tape fully and don’t overstuff mailers. Retain receipt scans as proof of postage in case of disputes.

Be responsive to questions about order status. Rate buyers promptly after confirmed delivery. Issue prompt refunds if return items arrive back unopened within 3 business days as allowed by Mercari policy. Most importantly, pack orders with the care you would want if receiving a purchase yourself to build repeat clientele through exceptional service. Word-of-mouth will be your greatest marketing asset.

As with any new business venture, it takes time and experience to succeed. But with the above guidance on photographing, pricing, listing/sharing cards and providing top-notch customer care – selling baseball cards on Mercari offers collectors a viable way to monetize their hobby and generate additional income. Consistency and constant improvements based on data and consumer feedback will determine long term profits in this competitive market space. Start small, learn and grow your baseball card trade business wisely over time.

Online marketplaces like Mercari have opened the door for motivated sellers to profit from their baseball card collections. By properly researching card values, capturing detailed photos, strategically promoting new deals and providing excellent post-sale support – hobbyists now have the tools to build sustainable income streams from their favorite pastime. With diligence and commitment to quality service, dedicated traders can turn occasional transactions into full-fledged small businesses on this popular venue.

BASEBALL CARDS SELLING NEAR ME

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby and collectible for over a century. As one of the earliest forms of sports memorabilia, baseball cards allow fans to connect with their favorite players through images and stats printed on small pieces of cardboard. Whether you have a collection you’re looking to sell or you’re a buyer searching for cards to add to your own collection, there are various options available to buy and sell baseball cards near you.

One of the most convenient methods for both buying and selling locally is through Facebook Marketplace. This platform allows you to post listings for your available baseball cards within a specified radius of your location. You can upload photos of the cards you have for sale along with descriptions of any notable players, conditions, sets they’re from, and your asking price. For buyers, you can search by location and filter listings by newest, distance, price, and more. Facebook Marketplace tends to have the most local traffic of any online classified site, so your listings are more likely to be seen by potential buyers in your area.

If you prefer face-to-face transactions, local card shops are another great option. Most major metropolitan areas will have at least one dedicated sports card and memorabilia store. These shops buy collections, sell individual cards and packs, and host events like release days for new sets and tournaments. Stopping by your local card shop gives buyers a chance to look through available inventory in person. Sellers can get on-the-spot cash offers for their collections from the shop’s buyer. Be prepared to potentially negotiate as shops need to factor in their own profit margins.

Another brick-and-mortar route is visiting card shows and conventions. These larger events are held periodically, sometimes monthly, in different cities. Vendors from across a region will gather to display thousands of cards for sale organized by sport, team, player, or set. As a seller, you can rent a table to showcase your personal collection. Buyers have the opportunity to search through multiple dealers’ inventories under one roof. Shows draw serious collectors who are willing to spend more on rarer finds. You’ll need to pay table fees as a seller and competition can be stiff.

If you’d prefer the convenience of selling from home, online marketplaces like eBay provide a global audience. Taking high-quality photos of your cards and writing detailed listings that include conditions, notable features, and accurate descriptions will help maximize your prices. On the buying side, eBay allows you to search completed and current auctions. Be sure to check seller feedback and only purchase from highly-rated accounts to avoid scams. Shipping costs will need to be factored in, so large collections may sell for less than local in-person transactions. Still, eBay is unparalleled for its customer base.

Websites like COMC (Cardboard Connection) and Sportlots are excellent options specifically for baseball card collectors. These sites specialize in the trading, buying, and selling of sports cards and allow you to create virtual online storefronts showcasing your personal collections. They charge monthly or annual membership fees but take care of photography, grading if desired, and shipping for you. For buyers, these sites have thousands of cards available from multiple sellers in one searchable database. Like eBay, shipping fees still apply which can eat into profit margins for less valuable cards.

Consider consignment through an experienced card dealer or auction house. Professionals will appraise your collection’s value, handle the photography and description work, and market the cards through their established channels. If a sale is made, you’ll receive a percentage of the final hammer price minus any applicable fees. While consignment yields the least immediate money, it can potentially earn you the highest long term profits – especially for rare game-used memorabilia. Just be sure to research dealers’ reputations and success rates. Paperwork may also be involved to formalize the legal agreement.

No matter which method you choose for buying or selling baseball cards locally or online, do your research, know average market values, and be wary of any transaction sounding too good to be true. With patience and diligence, you can grow your personal collection or earn some money from cards taking up space in your attic or storage unit. Trading, collecting, and selling cards is as much about the nostalgia and enjoyment of the hobby as the financial aspect.

BASEBALL CARDS SELLING PLACES

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for over a century. With millions of cards in circulation from the early 1900s to present day, there is a vast secondary market that has emerged for collectors and investors to buy, sell, and trade their collections. This article will explore some of the top places where collectors can go to sell their baseball cards either in-person or online.

Physical Card Shops
While online selling has become more prominent, many collectors still enjoy visiting local card shops to browse inventory, make deals face-to-face, and be a part of the card collecting community. Card shops employ buyers who are knowledgeable about the market and can provide cash offers or store credit for collections. They also serve as a meeting place for collectors of all ages to network, talk baseball, and do business. Some top national chains include Baseball Card Exchange, Sports Card World, and Dave & Adam’s Card World. Local independent shops also thrive in many cities and towns across the U.S. Checking local listings online or asking other collectors is the best way to find reputable card shops in your area.

Card Shows and Conventions
For those wanting to cast a wider net, card shows are multi-dealer events where dozens or even hundreds of vendors gather under one roof to buy and sell cards. Vendors range from individual collectors to large independent dealers. Shows allow buyers to browse an enormous variety of inventory from many sellers in one location, while also providing an opportunity for collectors to potentially get top dollar for rare finds. Some of the largest and most prestigious annual shows include the National Sports Collectors Convention, the Cardboard Connection National, and the National Sports Collectors Convention Midwest. Regional and local shows also operate year-round across the country.

Online Auction Sites
With the rise of the internet, online auction sites like eBay have become a hugely popular way for collectors of all skill levels to easily buy and sell cards from the comfort of home. eBay allows anyone to list cards individually or in lots with competitive bidding driving prices. While auction fees cut into profits, the global reach of eBay means cards can find buyers worldwide. Other sports card auction sites like Heritage Auctions and Lelands.com cater more specifically to high-end rare cards. Sites like Collectors.com and Comc.com focus on modern cards and provide a buyer protection program.

Peer-to-Peer Facebook Groups
In recent years, private Facebook groups have proliferated as a way for collectors to connect locally or around specific player/team/era interests. Groups like Sports Card Buy/Sell/Trade allow members to post photos of individual cards or complete collections for sale at fixed prices. This allows collectors to tap into focused communities while avoiding any transaction fees. There is no buyer protection so sellers and buyers must establish trust. Reputable long-standing groups with active administrators help mitigate risk.

Consignment with Dealers
Serious collectors seeking maximum value may choose to consign high-end cards or full collections to professional sports memorabilia dealers for a percentage of profits from future sales. Dealers have relationships with wealthy collectors and can better market and merchandize items at major card shows and auctions. While consignment cuts into immediate profits, it allows owners to avoid the work of directly selling and still benefit financially down the road if pieces sell for top dollar. Reputable consignment dealers include Grey Flannel Auctions, Goldin Auctions, and Robert Edward Auctions.

Direct Sales to Other Collectors
For budget-conscious collectors, directly connecting with other enthusiasts through collector-focused social media platforms, message boards, or local card clubs can lead to fair-priced private sales without any transaction fees. Buyers and sellers must do proper research, verify reputation, inspect items in-person when possible, and use payment methods providing protection like PayPal. With patience and caution, collectors have found success networking to both sell items from their personal collections or want lists and acquire new pieces for reasonable prices this way.

Whether a casual collector looking to offload duplicates or a serious investor with a valuable collection, there are many viable options available both online and off for selling baseball cards. With a bit of research, collectors can determine the best approach based on their individual needs, budget, and comfort level to profitably move cards and keep the hobby thriving for years to come. The marketplace remains robust as interest in the sport and its memorabilia continues strong worldwide.

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 23111

Leave a reply

Selling Baseball Cards in Richmond, VA (ZIP code 23111)

Richmond, Virginia has a long history with professional baseball, from the Richmond Virginians of the 1880s to the current Triple-A Richmond Flying Squirrels. With baseball being so popular in the area, selling baseball cards can be a lucrative business or hobby for collectors located in Richmond and the surrounding suburbs represented by ZIP code 23111. There are many factors to consider when getting started selling baseball cards locally.

Pricing Your Cards

Accurately pricing your baseball cards is crucial to attracting buyers and making a profit. Take the time to thoroughly research recent sold prices for each card on platforms like eBay to understand fair market value. Consider factors like the player, year, condition, and any special autographs or memorabilia when determining an asking price. Price high-value cards individually and bundle common cards into reasonably priced lots. Clearly listing condition details with photos helps buyers evaluate cards. Updating prices periodically ensures you don’t miss market shifts.

Marketing Your Inventory

Once cards are priced, focus on marketing them to the local Richmond collecting community. Set up a table at Richmond-area card shows, flea markets, and collector conventions. These events put you in front of serious buyers looking for deals. Invest in an eBay store to reach a national audience. Create a Facebook page or website with your contact info advertising available cards. Network with local card shops about consignment deals and inquire about booth space for short-term pop-up shops. Promote inventory across as many sales channels as possible.

Meeting In-Person Safely

Many collectors prefer inspecting and purchasing cards face-to-face. Schedule meet-ups at public locations like shops, libraries or coffeehouses to facilitate socially-distanced transactions. Clearly communicate your health and safety procedures to reassure customers, such as masks, distancing, and sanitizing payment methods. Consider providing contactless payment options like Venmo, PayPal or Apple Pay in addition to cash if that makes buyers more comfortable. A well-lit, high-traffic area aids safe, in-person selling in the COVID-19 environment.

Shipping Materials & Methods

Shipping cards requires investment in proper packaging materials and postage methods. Supply yourself with toploaders, team bags, bubble mailers, boxes and acid-free cardboard for carefully protecting cards in transit. Purchase shipping scales to weigh packages precisely for accurate domestic postage rates. Choose affordable media mail, first-class parcel or priority mail based on value, and purchase online shipping labels through services like eBay, PirateShip or PayPal. Insuring packages protects valuable cards and builds customer confidence in your shipping practices.

Authenticating & Grading

For high-value vintage cards or rookie cards of popular players, professional authentication and grading adds credibility and value recognized by sophisticated collectors. Research reputable third-party grading services like PSA, BGS or SGC and understand their submission requirements and associated costs. When accurately described andholdered slabs appeal to serious buyers who spend top-dollar on pristine specimens. Lower-cost authenticating via authenticators on trading card forums provides peace of mind for individual collectors as well.

Taxes & Record Keeping

As your card sales increase and become a full or part-time business, proper recordkeeping and tax filings become crucial for legal compliance and avoiding audits. Maintain detailed records of all sales, costs of merchandise, inventory, mileage, supplies and any other business expenses on accounting software. Familiarize yourself with regulations around collecting sales tax based on your state and business structure. Consult a small business tax professional to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines come tax season as a hobby or side business.

With a bit of effort, a collector located in the Richmond area can enjoy selling baseball cards as a fun side hustle or serious business. Apply diligent pricing, careful packaging and safe, documented transactions to build trust with local buyers. With baseball’s popularity locally and collecting booming nationwide, selling cards from ZIP code 23111 offers the potential for profits alongside the passion of the pastime. Consistently applying best practices helps navigate regulations and take full advantage of selling into the huge baseball card market here in Richmond and beyond.

HIGHEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

Leave a reply

The hobby of collecting baseball cards has grown exponentially over the past several decades. As the collectibles market has boomed, so too have the prices people are willing to pay for the rarest and most desirable baseball cards. eBay has become the preeminent online marketplace for selling collectibles of all kinds, including vintage baseball cards. Through eBay sales we have seen record prices paid for some of the most iconic cards from the early days of the sport. Below is an in-depth look at some of the highest selling baseball cards that have been auctioned off on eBay over the years.

One of the earliest and most expensive baseball cards ever sold on eBay was a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card that was graded Mint 9 by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). This iconic Wagner card is considered the holy grail of baseball cards due to its rarity—it is estimated only 50-200 were originally printed. In 2016, this near perfect example of the elusive T206 Wagner smashed expectations when it sold for $3.12 million, making it not only the highest selling baseball card ever sold on eBay but one of the costliest collectibles of any kind. What makes the price even more impressive is that the previous eBay record for a T206 Wagner was $657,250 set back in 2007.

Another T206 Wagner card would set the second highest price paid for a baseball card on eBay. In 2016, a PSA Authentic specimen graded Fair 2 fetched an astounding $911,500. While heavily played, this example still brought an eye-popping eight figures due to the extreme scarcity of the T206 Wagner in any grade. Just one year later, in 2017, yet another PSA-graded T206 Wagner, this one earning an overall grade of Good 2.5, would break the $1 million threshold when it closed at $1,320,000. The skyrocketing prices cemented the T206 Honus Wagner as officially the most valuable baseball card—and arguably the most valuable collectible card—in the world.

While the T206 Wagners reign supreme as the highest selling cards on eBay ever, some more modern rookie cards have also broken records. In 2007, a 1963 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 sold for a then-record $100,100. The iconic Mick’s first Topps issue remains one of the most sought-after rookies in the hobby even decades after his playing days. A few years later, in 2011, a 1952 Topps Willie Mays rookie PSA 9 would surpass the Mantle when it sold for an astonishing $450,000. Mays’ brilliant career and the superlative condition of this example helped it become the first post-war baseball card to break the $400k price barrier.

Two legendary rookie cards from the 1970s would explode on the scene in the mid-2010s, setting new standards for modern era cards. In 2016, a 1979 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie PSA 9 sold for an incredible $465,000. Considered the best hockey player of all-time, interest in Gretzky’s first issued card had grown substantially in previous years. Then in 2017, a 1976 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie PSA 9 achieved the highest public sale price for any card not featuring Honus Wagner when it closed at $521,000. Ripken’s iconic Iron Man streak and the condition of the card wowed bidders. Both sales highlighted how rookie cards of select all-time greats from the ’70s and ’80s era had begun seriously competing with their older counterparts in value.

Two more modern rookies joined the seven-figure club on eBay in 2021. A 1979 O-Pee-Chee Gretzky rookie PSA 9.5 shattered expectations when it sold for a whopping $1.29 million in January of that year. Remarkably pristine for its age and from a short printed Canadian set, it became the new most valuable hockey card overall. Meanwhile in August 2021, a 1998 Bowman’s Best Refractors Frank Thomas rookie PSA Gem Mint 10 set the record for highest price paid for any card from the 1990s at $1.447 million. The condition and appeal of Thomas’ first ever “refractor” parallel helped it beat out even the great vintage cards for the second highest baseball card sale on eBay at the time.

While the Honus Wagner T206s will likely remain the highest selling cards on the platform in perpetuity, eBay sales have demonstrated the rising values of star rookie cards from more recent generations. Products from the 1970s, such as the Gretzky and Ripken rookies, have broken into the five and six figure range. Meanwhile a select few modern issues like the 1998 Thomas refractor and 1979 Gretzky have achieved previously unthinkable million dollar price points. As star players of today like Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Shohei Ohtani start their respective careers, will their rookie cards from the 2010s someday compete with even the all-time greats? Only time will tell, but based on the escalating prices seen on eBay, the collectibles market will surely continue rewarding exceptionally preserved cards of certified future Hall of Famers for generations to come.

SELLING MODERN BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Selling Modern Baseball Cards in Today’s Market

The baseball card market has seen significant changes over the last few decades. While vintage cards from the 1950s and earlier can still fetch high prices, the market for modern baseball cards produced from the 1980s onward has shifted substantially. Understanding the current landscape for modern cards is crucial for anyone looking to sell cards produced in recent years. Several key factors influence the sales potential of modern baseball cards, including player performance, design choice, condition grades and more. Let’s take a deeper look.

Player Performance and Notability

For any trading card, the performance and notoriety of the featured athlete hugely impacts demand and pricing. Modern baseball cards are no exception. Rookie cards or cards featuring star players in their prime seasons will almost always hold more value than cards of depth players or players near the end of their careers. Selling modern cards requires researching not just the player but their career trajectory, awards, stats and lasting impact or fame achieved. Cards of household name stars consistently fetch the highest prices while role players may have very little secondary market demand. The collector community also places extra value on cards that capture record-setting or milestone moments in a player’s career.

Card Designs and Printing Quantities

Trading card manufacturers essentially determine the future supply of any given modern baseball card release through their print run decisions. More scarce print runs hold collector value better over time while overproduced sets flood the secondary market. It’s important for sellers to research production quantities and assess the overall scarcity of a specific card issue before listing. Simple, clean uniform designs tend to appeal most to collectors long-term while ‘gimmick’ themes often date a set. The most coveted modern issues typically come from the mainstream Topps, Bowman, Donruss and Upper Deck brands versus lesser known manufacturers. Condition also plays a huge role, with near mint to mint copies commanding the highest prices.

Grading Modern Cards

Third party grading through professional authentication and condition grading services like PSA, BGS and SGC adds significant perceived value and demand potential for modern baseball cards. Even if a card itself has limited intrinsic value due to player, design or print run factors, grading can upgrade its marketability. The costs of professionally slabbing a card must be recouped, so raw or lower-end condition copies often do not make financial sense to grade. It’s important for sellers to carefully consider population reports, historical sale comps and potential turnaround profits before deciding to grade a modern card for resale. Top rookies, stars and true gems almost always benefit from independent authentication.

Diversifying Sales Channels

With finite demand for many modern baseball card issues, tapping multiple online marketplaces maximizes selling potential. eBay remains the most widely-used platform for collectors thanks to high visibility and hundreds of millions of users. Fees are high and competition can be stiff. Platforms like COMC, Collector’s Universe Auctions, Amazon and direct sales websites offer alternatives to list cards for potentially better profit margins or a less saturated marketplace. Sellers should also be active on social media engaging collectors groups to promote available inventory outside of listings. A diversified, multi-channel sales strategy captures the widest possible net of potential buyers.

Condition Concerns and Disclosure

Given the relatively recent production timeframe, modern baseball cards across all performance tiers tend to have condition issues more than vintage equivalents. Even top name rookies from the late 90s and 2000s show edge wear, fading, dings or other flaws that impact grade potential and price. Full, clear photography from multiple angles is mandatory for listings so buyers fully understand condition prior to purchase. Any manufacturing defects must also be disclosed transparently. Taking extra care to honestly describe flaws and issues upfront builds trust with collectors and avoids potential disputes or refund requests down the line that hurt seller performance metrics and reputation.

Outlook and Best Practices for Selling

While modern baseball cards lack the same collectible nostalgia or proven long-term performance of their predecessors, demand and price points remain robust for stars, key rookies and high graded copies. By gaining a deep understanding of factors that drive value like player achievement, print details, grading standards and strategic selling, many modern issues can still generate healthy profits with the right cards sold through optimized platforms and channels. Transparent condition disclosure, competitive pricing with fair profit margins, and impeccable customer service also hold the key to successful ongoing sales in today’s crowded modern baseball card marketplace. With diligent research and savvy selling strategies, modern cards continue providing viable inventory options.

The key techniques for maximizing profits from selling modern baseball cards include focusing listings on top performers, researching print runs, leveraging grading services, diversifying sales channels, providing fulsome condition details upfront, engaging collector communities, and offering a best-in-class buying experience. Adopting these proven practices positions sellers well to tap continued demand and realize optimal prices in today’s competitive modern card trading scene.

SELLING COMMON BASEBALL CARDS REDDIT

Leave a reply

Selling Common Baseball Cards on Reddit – The Basics

Reddit can be a great place to both buy and sell common baseball cards. While more valuable vintage cards may garner higher prices on dedicated sales sites like eBay, Reddit offers a community of collectors dedicated to the sport of baseball. For those looking to sell off low-value duplicates and commons from their collection, Reddit presents an easy option to find interested buyers without high fees. This guide will cover the basics of photographing, pricing and shipping common baseball cards when selling on the popular Reddit forum r/baseballcards.

Photographing Cards for Sale

Taking clear, bright photographs is essential when listing cards for sale on Reddit. Poor quality images will turn buyers away before they even consider making an offer. Invest in a lightbox or use natural lighting near a window to eliminate shadows. Phones with high megapixel cameras work well, just be sure images are sharply focused. For each card, take a straight-on front photo and a close-up of any valuable stats or autographs on the back. Clean any dirt or grime off the surface before shooting. Organize cards into easy-to-browse albums rather than a single photo dump. Label each image with the player name, year, set/issue and condition. Condition is subjective but be as objective as possible using standard grading terms like Near Mint, Very Good, Good etc.

Pricing Common Cards Fairly

Unlike sites valuing every card, on Reddit the goal is to find a fair transactional price agreeable to both buyer and seller. Research recently sold comps on eBay to get a ballpark price target but be willing to negotiate, especially for lots of multiple cards. Factor in condition, centering and any flaws. Common base cards in Near Mint from the ’80s and ’90s may fetch $1-5 each depending on the player while stars could go for $5-10. Rookies, parallels and refractors have added value. Price reasonably or buyers will pass you over. Also factor in typical $1 domestic shipping per PWE (plain white envelope).

Describing Lots and Making Deals

Group common cards into themed lots rather than individual sales for efficiency. Describe each lot in your post title clearly, such as “50 Yankees Commons from the ’90s”. In the description, provide team, players, years and condition details for transparency. Be responsive – within a few hours reply to any comment interest and make offers. Negotiate in public comments for transparency. Once agreed, move to private messages to exchange shipping info. Always clearly communicate with potential buyers to foster positive transactions. Ship via tracking for valuable lots over $20-30 as extra insurance for both parties.

Getting Paid and Building Trust

Accept payment primarily through PayPal Goods and Services for buyer and seller protection on all transactions. Clearly communicate the total payment amount to include reasonable shipping costs. Once payment is confirmed, pack and ship cards well within a few business days then provide the tracking number. Positive buyer feedback is key for your Reddit baseball card selling reputation to grow. Offer returns within a week only for significant hidden flaws. Honest, fairly priced cards along with excellent communication and fast shipping will keep satisfied buyers returning to your future posts.

Selling Team Lots and Single Higher End Cards

Grouping cards by specific teams opens up opportunities for collector specialists. Research team-specific subreddits to crosspost lots matching their interests. Descriptions should note any stars, parallels, refractors, patch cards etc as value drivers. As with commons, weigh condition, centering and demand. Rarer rookie cards of future legends still in their early MLB years could fetch $20-50 or more depending on the grader-worthy quality. List single valuable cards at fair prices but don’t be afraid to accept reasonable offers. Once you’ve built some sales history, adding tracked shipping is sensible for these higher insured values. Keep lots approachable for new reddit users though.

Successfully Selling on Reddit Takes Time

Remember that establishing a sales history takes patience. Post engaging, fairly priced lots of quality cards a few times per week. Be responsive to any inquiries within a business day. Repeat buyers start to recognize honest sellers. Selling commons is a foot in the door, but maintain standards that help you eventually sell more unique premium inventory. Provide the type of easy transaction experience found from reputable vintage card auction sites. With the right approach over months, r/baseballcards could become a valuable outlet for your extra cards taking up space in your collection box. Stay active in the positive community discussions too for increased visibility of your seller name and reputation over the long run.

In summary, Reddit presents collectors a friendly marketplace for trading and selling common baseball cards when listing inventory is well-photographed and priced fairly. Transparency, fast communication and reliable shipping will keep buyers returning to your future sales posts. With time and honest business practices, you can turn over lower-value duplicates while gaining exposure as a seller of higher end modern and vintage inventory on r/baseballcards. Remember that running a successful reddit card business focuses first on building solid seller reviews through satisfied customers every step of the way.

TOP SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 2021

Leave a reply

The year 2021 saw strong interest in the baseball card hobby remain despite the ongoing pandemic. While values of modern cards fluctuated, vintage cards from the sport’s golden era of the 1960s-80s continued commanding top prices at auction. Let’s take a look at some of the highest selling baseball cards from 2021 based on auction data:

Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps PSA 8 – $5.2 Million
The undisputed heavyweight champion of 2021 sales was this one-of-a-kind Mantle rookie card, which sold for a record-shattering $5.2 million through PWCC Marketplace in January. What made this card so special? As a PSA 8 gem mint condition, it’s regarded as the finest known copy of Mickey Mantle’s rookie. The previous auction record for any card was $3.12 million for a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner in 2016, so the Mantle easily topped that. Experts believe factors like Mantle’s status as a Yankees icon and the card being in such phenomenal condition for its age drove the high price. The record is a testament to Mantle’s enduring popularity and the 1952 Topps design continuing to captivate collectors decades later.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner PSA 5 – $3.75 Million
The next highest auction sale of 2021 was predictably another iconic early 20th century tobacco card – none other than the famous Wagner. This PSA 5 very good example went for $3.75 million in a Robert Edward Auctions sale in April, trouncing the card’s previous public record of $3.12 million. While not in pristine condition, it still represented a rare opportunity to own one of the sport’s rarest pre-war cards; only 50-200 Wagners are believed to exist in total. The strong price reflects how the Wagner has cemented its status as the most coveted and valuable trading card of all time, continuing to attract serious enthusiast and investment interest at a level unmatched by other issues.

1969 Topps Reggie Jackson RC PSA 8 – $2.88 Million
Among modern cards, no rookie matched the splash of Reggie Jackson’s ’69 Topps issue. In April, a PSA 8 NM-MT copy of “Mr. October’s” iconic debut broke new ground by selling for $2.88 million via Goldin Auctions. This is not only a record price for any Jackson card, but also the highest price achieved for any 1960s/70s card at the time (since surpassed by the Mantle). The massive sum reflects Jackson’s prestige as one of baseball’s most memorable sluggers who blasted his way to World Series MVPs. With electric action photography and an iconic design beloved by collectors, this card has long been one of the most investible from the sport’s transitional modern era.

1933 Goudey Babe Ruth PSA 5 – $2.20 Million
Babe Ruth holds a hallowed place in baseball history as the game’s first true superstar home run king. His early Goudey issues are thereby highly sought. This PSA 5 very good condition example brought $2.20 million at Goldin’s February Legends & Luxury auction, once again blowing away what had been the most paid previously for the legendary slugger’s 1930s cards. While appropriately graded for its age, the premium speaks to the rarity, appeal, and folklore surrounding anything bearing the Babe’s likeness from his playing days – cementing his cards as blue-chip trophies for diehard collectors.

1909-11 T206 Johnny Evers PSA 3 – $1.56 Million
While not in the same esteemed company as the iconic Wagner, the T206 set from 1909–1911 is nonetheless eagerly collected as one of the first comprehensive baseball issues. A PSA 3 very good Johnny Evers attracted a surprising $1.56 million winning bid in February via Heritage. Though understandably lower graded, the price suggests strong ongoing enthusiasm for high-end examples from this pioneering tobacco era release, especially for players tied to the storied Chicago Cubs teams Evers was part of. This may have been a record at the time for any non-Wagner/Cobb T206 card.

1975 Topps Nolan Ryan RC PSA 8 – $900,000
Nolan Ryan’s record-setting Hall of Fame career made his ’75 Topps rookie one of the most desirable modern issues. In November at Heritage, an extremely well-preserved PSA 8 copy realized a then-record $900,000. As one of the set’s most iconic subjects along with Rod Carew and George Brett, this Ryan shares space alongside the likes of Mantle and Jackson as perhaps the single most valuable post-war rookie card – a true rarity in such a pristine state of preservation nearly 50 years later. The sum underscores how modern issues can achieve vintage-level prices where condition and subject merit.

2000 Bowman Chrome Ken Griffey Jr. PSA 10 – $657,250
For prospects huddling to open unforgettable pack fresh hits in the early 2000s, Ken Griffey Jr.’s prospects-heavy Bowman Chrome debut reigns supreme. An unprecedentedly flawless PSA 10 copy sold through Goldin in May for an astounding $657,250. Griffey mania at its peak in the late 90s combined with his clean, modern design and ultrarare true gem state propelled this way beyond any previous prices realized for even the player’s acclaimed 1989 Upper Deck rookie card. It demonstrates how condition alone can transform an affordable modern issue into a blue-chip investment when taken to the pinnacle grading level.

As this overview shows, the pandemic did little to curb robust collector interest driving new record prices across the hobby in 2021. While vintage greats still commanded the highest sales, modern stars like Griffey and post-war icons like Ryan started achieving previously unfathomable values as well. Condition more than ever has become king in determining an item’s potential worth. With strong economic recovery and more new collectors entering the market, 2022 may see baseball’s all-time hits continue climbing to even greater new heights.

TOP SELLING BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 80s

Leave a reply

The 1980s were a transformative time for baseball cards. Several factors converged to turn select players’ cards from that era into highly coveted, big-money investments. Across the decade, certain rookie cards and stars’ cards emerged as best sellers and remain so decades later due to their historical significance and the players’ enduring popularity. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most famous and valuable baseball cards from the 1980s.

The 1980 Topps Bobby Bonds card (#500) remains coveted by collectors to this day. Bobby Bonds was a home run hitting outfielder in the 1970s who became one of the first true five-tool stars in the game. His son, Barry, would go on to shatter numerous MLB records and become one of the greatest players of all time. In 1980, Topps missed photographing Barry, so young Barry is merely referenced on the back of his father Bobby’s card. As Barry’s fame grew throughout the 1980s, so did interest in this prescient “fathers and sons” card from his early childhood, which now routinely sells for over $500 in near-mint condition.

The Rated Rookie era in the mid-1980s ushered in skyrocketing card prices the likes of which the hobby had never seen before. Players who experienced breakout seasons as rookies saw their cards list for exorbitant sums. None was more popular than the Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie from 1989, considered by many the single-most iconic baseball card of the modern era. With his sweet left-handed swing and effortless grace in centerfield, Griffey quickly became a fan favorite. His rookie card appreciated to over $1,000 by the early 1990s before skyrocketing to over $10,000 raw today due to his elite, injury shortened career and nostalgia.

While Griffey was the biggest rookie draw of 1989, the previous season featured two equally huge star rookies in San Diego’s Benito Santiago and Oakland’s Mark McGwire. Santiago’s slugging and defense behind the plate earned him 1988 Rookie of the Year honors. His classic Donruss rookie is one of the most instantly recognizable from the entire 1980s, moving for over $1,000 in high grade today. Meanwhile, McGwire burst onto the scene with a rippling physique and prodigious power, launching 49 home runs in only his second season. His Fleer rookie from 1987 has become the most iconic of his early career cards, a testament to the raw potential scouts had forecasted. Grading well, it routinely changes hands for $5,000+.

The 1980s also saw entire iconic sets achieve blue-chip status due to featuring all-time great young talent. The most prominent of these is undoubtedly the flagship 1987 Topps set. Rookie cards of McGwire, Gary Sheffield, and future Hall of Famers like Dwight Gooden, Frank Viola, and Ozzie Smith made this set wildly popular. In near-mint condition, a full base set can sell for upwards of $10,000 today. Similarly, the 1986 Topps Traded set – featuring rookie cards of Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux, and future 500 home run club members like Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro – became a must-have among investors. High-grade examples change hands for $4,000+.

Two other singularly dominant stars of the 1980s whose rookie cards rocketed in value were San Diego’s Kirby Puckett and Oakland’s Jose Canseco. Puckett was a model of consistency and a perennial batting champion for over a decade with the Twins, capturing six Gold Gloves. His star shone brightly from 1984 onward. His 1985 Topps rookie became the most coveted card from that set, known for its sharp action photo. Grading well, it can command $3,000. Meanwhile, Canseco helped popularize the “Rated Rookie” phenomenon with his breakthrough 40 home run season in 1986. His subsequent fame and 1986 Topps Traded paper rookie combined to make it one of the most expensive modern-era cards, selling for over $4,000 in pristine condition.

The 1980s launched several future Hall of Famers and superstars to stardom. Spurred by new manufacturing technologies and television deals that brought the game into a new era of popularity, enterprising young investors started gobbling up rookie cards and stars’ cards that they saw appreciating in the years ahead. Decades later, cards featuring players like Griffey, McGwire, Bonds, Puckett, and Canseco remain best sellers due to capturing lightning in a bottle – rookie seasons and early careers that presaged careers for the ages. Fueled by nostalgia and rarity for formative baseball experiences, 1980s cards will likely continue appreciating for longtime collectors and investors.

TOP SELLING 80S BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1980s was a transformative decade for the baseball card industry. Following an explosive growth period in the late 1970s fueled by the entrepreneurial spirit of the post-war baby boom generation, the 1980s saw baseball cards transition from a niche hobby into a mainstream commercial enterprise. Mega companies like Topps, Donruss and Fleer flooded the market with new baseball card releases every year, cultivating legions of young collectors.

As the decade progressed, certain players and certain rookie cards from the 1980s emerged as particularly coveted and valuable on the secondary market. While statistics, accomplishments and team performance influenced card values, the 1980s also marked one of the first periods where savvy investors and speculators helped drive demand. This led many of the top selling 1980s baseball cards to retain value or increase in value decades later.

Among the most prized rookies from the 1980s was Kirby Puckett’s 1981 Donruss rookie card. Puckett went on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Minnesota Twins, winning six Gold Gloves and being named to six All-Star teams. His smooth left-handed swing and sparkling defense in center field made him a fan favorite. The 1981 Donruss Puckett rookie is one of the most iconic cards of the era, with high grade copies regularly selling for thousands of dollars today.

Another tremendously valuable 1980s rookie is the Frank Thomas 1989 Bowman card. Like Puckett, “The Big Hurt” lived up to the hype, establishing himself as one of the game’s most feared power hitters throughout the 1990s. He won back-to-back American League MVP awards in 1993-1994 for the Chicago White Sox. In 2007, Thomas was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on the first ballot, highlighting just how dominant his 20-year career was. Mint condition 1989 Bowman Thomas rookies have changed hands for over $10,000.

The rise of star Cubs shortstop Shawon Dunston coincided with the baseball card boom. His popular 1984 Donruss rookie is a throwback to the potent Cubs teams of the mid-1980s. While Dunston fell just short of the Hall of Fame, his rookie remained a stronghold for Cubs collectors for decades. High-grade ’84 Donruss Dunston rookies consistently sell in the $500-$1000 range. Another memorable 1984 rookie is the Don Mattingly for the New York Yankees. “Donnie Baseball” was a fans favorite and one of the game’s best pure hitters throughout the 1980s, winning the American League MVP in 1985.

The year 1987 produced some all-time iconic rookies. Perhaps none bigger than the Toronto Blue Jays’ affinity for power hitters like George Bell and Lloyd Moseby continued to grow fan support in Canada. Bell slugged 47 home runs and won the 1987 AL MVP award to cement himself as a true superstar. His ’87 Fleer rookie has become one of the most famous and collectible Fleer cards ever made. Meanwhile, the New York Mets had a rookie sensation of their own in catcher Gary Carter. Already an 11-year veteran, “The Kid” provided veteran leadership for the 1987 World Series champions. His distinctive Fleer rookie became a cherished favorite among Mets fans both young and old.

Speaking of the Mets, one of the true heavyweight rookies hails from their 1986 Topps set – catcher Todd Hundley. Still just a prospect in 1986, Hundley developed into an All-Star caliber player for the Mets for much of the 1990s. His sweet left-handed swing launched over 200 career home runs. The coveted blue foil parallel of Hundley’s ’86 Topps rookie is among the most desired variations from the 1980s. In pristine condition, examples can command $1000+.

Roberto Alomar broke into the bigs with the San Diego Padres in 1988, but quickly became a star with the Toronto Blue Jays. His elegant defense at second base earned him the first of his 10 Gold Gloves in 1991. Alomar’s career .300 average and offensive skills made him a constant All-Star. The Hall of Famer’s debut 1988 Fleer Update rookie is frequently found on lists of the priciest 1980s cards in mint condition, valued at well over $1000 in high-grade.

While stars like Kirby Puckett, Frank Thomas and George Bell drove the hottest rookie card markets of the 1980s, seasoned vets like Ozzie Smith also yielded huge collector demand. Arguably the greatest defensive shortstop ever, “The Wizard” was a mainstay of the 1982-1985 St. Louis Cardinals teams. The slick fielding Smith was a fan favorite, achieving 15 consecutive Gold Gloves over his career. His classic 1985 Topps Traded update card depicting his “Backflip” home run is among the most recognized cardboard ever made, often cited as a gateway card that got 80s kids hooked. Graded mint examples can fetch multi-thousand dollar sums.

The unprecedented growth of the baseball card industry in the 1980s led to an explosion of interest among young collectors looking to build complete sets and chase rookie cards of their favorite new players. This planted the seeds for a multimillion-dollar memorabilia market decades later. Stars like Puckett, Mattingly, Bell and Smith produced some of the most beloved and valuable cards that defined collecting in the golden era. Their dazzling careers paired with rookie cards from iconic sets like Topps, Donruss, Fleer and Bowman make them forever cherished by collectors of cards from the transformative decade of the 1980s.