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CURRENT BEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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The baseball card collecting hobby has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, fueled by nostalgia and the rise of online auction sites that make collecting accessible. While rookie cards of star players from decades past still hold significant value, today’s market is dominated by cards featuring current superstars and promising young talents.

One of the most sought-after modern baseball cards is the 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Autograph card of Los Angeles Angels superstar Mike Trout. Widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, Trout has won three MVP awards and makes an annual case for the award. His rookie card from his draft year of 2009 is extremely scarce in high grades and has sold for over $400,000 in mint condition. Even well-worn Trout rookie cards in POOR condition have fetched five figures due to his legendary status in the game.

Another young superstar generating huge enthusiasm is San Diego Padres shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. Tatis burst onto the scene in 2019 with a Rookie of the Year caliber season and has established himself as one of baseball’s most exciting players. His Topps Chrome Refractor rookie card from 2019 is one of the hottest modern rookie cards, with PSA 10 Gem Mint examples selling for $1000-1500. Tatis’ autograph cards from 2019 Bowman Chrome and Bowman Sterling also command big money due to his budding stardom and the Padres’ rising profile.

Shohei Ohtani, the two-way phenom for the Los Angeles Angels, has also attracted significant card collector interest since debuting stateside in 2018. Ohtani’s rare ability to pitch and hit makes him a true unicorn in the sport. While injury has limited his playing time the last two seasons, Ohtani remains one of the most intriguing talents in baseball. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospects Autograph rookie sells for $300-500 in top condition due to his unique two-way skills and star potential.

Rookie cards for 2019 AL Rookie of the Year Yordan Alvarez also hold strong value. Alvarez exploded onto the MLB scene with the Houston Astros, slugging 27 home runs in just 87 games. His 2019 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autograph RC has sold for over $200 in PSA 10 Gem Mint. Alvarez looks poised for stardom and his cards could appreciate significantly if he continues developing into an elite power hitter.

Two of the most hyped prospects in recent memory are Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays and Julio Rodriguez of the Seattle Mariners. Considered can’t-miss prospects with five-tool talents and advanced hit tools, Franco and Rodriguez generated buzz well before reaching the majors. Franco’s 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autograph RC has sold for $500-600 in top grade due to his superstar potential. Rodriguez’s 2019 Bowman Chrome Autograph RC also fetches $300-400 due to his exciting all-around skills and status as a future cornerstone for the Mariners. Both players figure to be stars for years and their rookie cards could appreciate tremendously if they live up to expectations at the MLB level.

Beyond rookies and prospects, cards of established superstars continue moving off shelves. Star shortstops Fernando Tatis Jr. and Bo Bichette see strong demand for their Topps Chrome Refractor rookie cards from 2019 and 2020, respectively. Top-graded examples sell for $150-200 due to their elite playmaking abilities and roles as franchise cornerstones. Mookie Betts, the 2018 AL MVP and current Dodger, generates steady interest in his cards from his time with the Red Sox. Betts’ 2012 Bowman Chrome Draft Auto RC remains a strong seller at $300-400.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr., son of Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero Sr., has one of the most coveted modern rookie cards. Since debuting with the Blue Jays in 2019, Guerrero Jr. has established himself as one of baseball’s most feared power hitters. His 2018 Bowman Chrome Prospects Autograph RC remains a hot ticket item, with PSA 10 examples commanding $400-600. As Guerrero Jr. continues developing into a perennial MVP candidate, his rookie cards could appreciate significantly from current prices.

Current best selling baseball cards feature the rookies and prospects of budding superstars like Mike Trout, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Shohei Ohtani who have lived up to expectations at the MLB level. High-end rookie cards for can’t-miss prospects Wander Franco and Julio Rodriguez also see strong demand. Established stars like Mookie Betts and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. continue generating collector interest as well. As long as these players sustain elite play, their rookie cards should remain blue-chip investments for savvy baseball card investors.

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS ONLINE READING

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Selling Baseball Cards Online: The Ultimate Guide

Baseball cards have been a collectible hobby for decades, with millions of people happily amassing collections of their favorite players throughout the years. As any serious collector eventually realizes, your collection will inevitably expand beyond what you can reasonably store and display at home. This is where selling baseball cards online begins to make sense. Thanks to online marketplaces like eBay, it’s never been easier to sell off duplicates, trade surplus cards for ones you need, or simply cash out of the hobby altogether if your interests have changed.

Jumping into online card sales without proper preparation and knowledge of current market trends and seller best practices is a recipe for frustration. Taking the time to educate yourself first will help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your profits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to start successfully selling baseball cards online, from choosing the right platforms and pricing your cards accurately to shipping securely and building your reputation as a trusted seller.

Choosing an Online Marketplace

The most popular and trusted marketplace for collectibles sales remains eBay. With over 150 million active buyers, a robust feedback and rating system, payment processing tools, and seller protections, it provides the exposure and infrastructure no other site can match. Fees can eat into your profits—around 12-13% in total between listing and final value fees.

As alternatives, check out:

ClubhouseConsign.com: Specializes in higher-end cards ($20+), charges just 5% in fees.

Comc.com: Market leader for comics/cards, charges 7% with no listing fees.

Collectors.com: Focused on vintage memorabilia, also charges 7% total fees.

Twitter: An emerging but untested option, use hashtags to sell directly through DMs by avoiding fees entirely.

For beginners or casual sellers, eBay typically makes the most sense. Larger, more experienced sellers looking to maximize profits may opt for a specialized site with lower fees instead.

Pricing Your Cards Accurately

Obtaining fair market value for your cards begins with thorough research on recent sold listings. Key resources include:

eBay’s “Sold Listings” search tool. Filter by card name/year and compare prices.

Price guides like Beckett, CardboardConnection, and 130point. They provide ballpark values but actual sales are more accurate.

Facebook groups focused on specific players/sets where collectors discuss valuation.

Consider condition, serial number (for older/unique issues), autographs/relics, and any other factors that could impact price. Price on the higher end of recent comps to entice bidding but make sure listings don’t wildly exceed average sales. You want organic interest, not unreasonable expectations.

Describe Your Listings In Detail

Crisp, extensive photographs from multiple angles showing subtle condition details like centering, corners, and edges are key. Write detailed descriptions highlighting any noteworthy features, flaws, or authenticity quirks. Measure carefully and note exact height/width in millimeters. Provide clear scans of any autographs or encapsulation holograms as applicable.

Include relevant searchable keywords in the title like player name, set/year, position, serial number, etc. so your listing surfaces easily. List under both “Used” and newly created subcategories when applicable like “Graded,” “Autographed,” etc. High quality, well researched listings will attract serious buyers.

Creating Competitive Shipping/Pricing Options

While obvious condition flaws belong in the description, slight imperfections do not always warrant steep discounted pricing. Let condition guide your value assessment primarily, not arbitrary percentage cuts. Provide multiple discounted combined/international shipping options that still allow you to profit, not merely break even.

Offers competitive calculated and flat rate USPS/UPS shipping prices that protect the card and incentivize domestic buyers. For valuable cards, require signature confirmation at the buyer’s expense for security. Make payments through eBay/PayPal for their protections, avoiding risks of other payment methods.

Respond to Messages Professionally

Promptly respond to inquiries with additional photos, measuring, or authenticating details requested. Resist pressures to accept lowball offers—have faith in your research and stand by fair asking prices. Shipping must be swift, cards carefully packaged and insured for value declared. Include thank you notes welcoming positive feedback. Address any issues cheerfully and trust eBay/site’s dispute process if needed.

Building Your Reputation

Consistency, quality, and reliability over many transactions build a reputation that attracts new buyers. eBay makes it easy to accept and compile seller ratings, positive feedback comments publicly displayed on your profile boosting confidence. Regularly interact with applicable collectibles groups on social media to similarly spread your name and gain followers for future sales. With time and dedicated effort, selling baseball cards online can grow into a rewarding hobby within your hobby!

Of course, as with any business, there are risks to weigh like accounting for taxes owed on profits or the possibility of items being lost/damaged in transit despite precautions. Taking the proper steps outlined above though greatly increases chances for a smooth online selling experience and the ability to successfully move cards in your collection to generate funds, find needed additions, or fuel a passion through the collectibles marketplace. For dedicated collectors open to the challenge, selling baseball cards online provides unique opportunities.

STORE SELLING BASEBALL CARDS NYC

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Baseball card collecting is a beloved pastime in New York City and the surrounding areas. With the popularity of both the Yankees and Mets, baseball fandom runs deep, and for many fans nothing captures that fandom quite like collecting vintage and modern baseball cards. For those interested in building or adding to their baseball card collections, NYC offers no shortage of great stores to discover rare and valuable cards.

One of the most well-known baseball card shops in New York is Baseball Card Exchange, located near Times Square at 230 West 40th Street in Manhattan. Baseball Card Exchange has been in business since 1973 and stocks a massive inventory of cards from the 1880s up to the present day. They specialize in high-end vintage cards like Honus Wagner T206 cards, but also cater to collectors of modern stars. Their vast collection includes cards from all eras and levels of condition. Beyond singles, they also sell wax boxes and packs from sets spanning decades. Staff are knowledgeable about the history of the hobby and can offer assistance evaluating collections or building want lists. Their prices tend toward the higher end but the selection and customer service make it a top destination shop.

For those in Queens and Brooklyn, a popular local store is Sports World situated at 104-11 Metropolitan Avenue in Forest Hills. Open since the 1970s, Sports World focuses solely on baseball, football, basketball and hockey cards. They pride themselves on fair prices and a no-haggle buying/selling approach. The shop stocks a variety of commons through high-end vintage and modern rookie cards at reasonable prices. Sports World is a bit more geared toward the average collector than a high-roller, offering great singles at affordable prices in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Being in Queens, their inventory skews more toward Mets players but they have selections from all teams.

A staple in Greenwich Village for decades is Bleeker Street Sports Cards, located at 225 Bleecker Street. With a vintage shop feel, Bleeker Street focuses on the vintage side of the hobby with an impressive selection of pre-1980s cards. They specialize in complete vintage sets at fair guided market prices and carry selections from the 1910s tobacco era through the 1970s. While they have some Modern and graded cards as well, Bleeker Street shines for their expertise in ungraded vintage. The knowledgeable staff is happy to provide details on production and values. It’s a perfect place to build sets, pick up key singles or get guidance on collecting priorities from the earlier eras.

Over in Staten Island, Cardit Sports Cards at 2612 Hylan Boulevard caters well to the borough’s baseball fans. Open since 1988, Cardit stock is overwhelmingly modern with a focus on rookies, parallels and inserts from the last 10-15 years. Their singles selections skew toward Mets and Yankees but they have plenty from all 30 teams. Beyond cards, Cardit also offers supplies, boxes, unopened packs and a rewarding reward points program. The shop has a fun, family-friendly atmosphere that makes it a popular destination, especially during the season. Cardit hosts regular signings, breaks and community events for collectors of all ages.

No visit to NYC is complete without checking out Beckett’s Collectibles at 225 5th Avenue in Manhattan. As the publisher of the hobby’s top price guide, Beckett’s offers an unparalleled selection of high-end vintage and graded modern gems. Their showcase cases dazzle with pre-war T206 cards, iconic rookies like the ’52 Mantle, ’69 Reggie and ’84 McGwire rookies in pristine slabs. While prices are on the higher side of market value, their authentication and grading services set the gold standard. Even if not buying, it’s a treat just to admire the condition of their display pieces. Beckett’s expertise attracts serious collectors from around the globe.

For collectors farther north in New York, two excellent options are Topps Shop in Yonkers and Baseball Card Exchange White Plains. Topps Shop at 31 South Broadway in Yonkers offers located right near the original Topps headquarters. They stock an array of licensed Topps products, memorabilia, autographs and original Topps artwork alongside singles from all eras. It’s a nostalgic destination especially for earlier collectors. Up in Westchester County, Baseball Card Exchange White Plains at 112 E Post Road features the same deep inventory and high standards as their Times Square flagship. Across both shops, collectors are assured knowledgeable assistance from staff well-versed in the rich baseball card history of the metro area and beyond.

Whether based in Manhattan, the outer boroughs or further north, New York City offers world-class shops with expertise to satisfy any level of baseball card collector. From unopened wax to authenticated vintage gems, shops stock incredible selections for building sets, searching for PC players or just admiring the nostalgia of the pastime. With energetic communities and frequent signings/events, they provide the perfect local haunts for card fanatics across the region. Visiting any of these renowned stores is certain to spark the collecting flame anew.

CRAZY GUY SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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The old man sat on a rickety folding chair behind a weathered card table set up on the sidewalk. Piles and boxes of baseball cards surrounded him, stacked haphazardly in no discernible order. A hand-scrawled sign taped to the front of the table read “Baseball Cards – Make Offer”.

People passing by on the busy downtown street paid him little mind. Most were too focused on getting to where they needed to go to stop and sift through the dusty collections of cardboard. A few may have glanced at the disheveled man and his disorganized wares with a look of pity before hurrying on their way.

But for Jerry, this was more than just a way to pass the time or make a few extra bucks. Selling his vast baseball card collection was his life’s work and passion. He had amassed the mountains of memorabilia over decades of collecting, starting from when he was just a young boy. Each tattered card held a special memory and story for him.

Jerry was now in his late 60s, alone in the world with only his cardboard companions to keep him company. His wife had passed away years ago and he was long estranged from his children and extended family. The cards were all he had left. But affording his small apartment on a fixed income was becoming more difficult as the cost of living rose. He knew he needed to downsize.

So day after day, rain or shine, he set up shop on the sidewalk hoping someone might take an interest in his treasured collection. Most folks just walked on by without so much as a glance. Jerry didn’t mind – he was content to sit and reminisce about the players and teams represented in the piles in front of him.

Occasionally a curious kid might stop to flip through the boxes, eyes lighting up at a shiny pull from a pack or a familiar star from their favorite team. Jerry would eagerly share stories and stats about each card with the enthusiastic young fans. Their parents usually hurried them along after just a few minutes, uncomfortable leaving their child with the disheveled stranger.

But one day everything changed when a man in his late 20s stopped to peruse Jerry’s selection. His name was Adam and he had recently rediscovered his childhood passion for the hobby. He spent nearly an hour going through boxes with Jerry, engrossed in the old-timer’s wealth of baseball knowledge and memories attached to each card.

Adam was fascinated by Jerry’s encyclopedic memory of players, stats, seasons and trivia from across the decades. He could have listened to the stories all day. When Adam spotted a rare rookie card from his favorite childhood player, he knew he had to have it.

“What will you take for this gem?” Adam asked Jerry.

A grin spread across Jerry’s weathered face. “That there is a special one. Let me see…how’s twenty bucks sound?”

Adam eagerly handed over a twenty dollar bill, thrilled with his find. They spent the next half hour haggling over fair prices for some of Jerry’s other vintage stars until Adam had amassed a nice starter collection.

Before leaving, Adam insisted on treating Jerry to lunch at a nearby sandwich shop to thank him. Over hoagies and iced tea, a friendship began to blossom between the two card collectors separated by nearly 50 years.

Adam started stopping by Jerry’s sidewalk sale every few days, not only to look for cards to add to his growing collection, but also for the pleasure of Jerry’s company and stories. Word of the “crazy old guy selling cards” and his encyclopedic knowledge spread through the local card collecting community. Soon Jerry had a regular stream of both casual browsers and serious collectors coming by daily to dig through his piles and learn from his lifelong passion.

Business was booming for Jerry. Cards were flying off the table at fair prices. But more importantly, he had found companionship and a sense of purpose again. The lonely days sitting alone with just his memories for company were over. Jerry’s joy was evident as he regaled customers young and old alike with his never-ending supply of baseball tales from across the decades.

Thanks to Adam’s chance discovery and their budding friendship, Jerry’s beloved collection finally found appreciative new homes while also giving the old man happiness and friendship in his later years. His sidewalk sale went from being a sad reflection of loneliness to a celebration of America’s pastime shared with others who loved the game as much as he did. In the end, Jerry’s “crazy” passion wound up being the very thing that saved him from slipping further into isolation, proving you should never underestimate the power of sports to bring people together.

TOP SELLING 1980 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1980 baseball season saw some incredible talent take the field, leading to many star players having extremely popular and valuable baseball cards from that year. While stars from the late 1950s through the 1970s still held a lot of cachet and their rookie cards fetched top dollar, the 1980s began ushering in a new generation of stars that collectors eagerly snapped up on cardboard. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest names and top selling 1980 baseball cards.

Without question, one of the most coveted and expensive 1980 baseball cards is that of Fernando Valenzuela of the Los Angeles Dodgers. As a rookie that season, “Fernando-mania” took the nation by storm as the 20-year-old Mexican pitcher virtually single-handedly resurrected Dodgers baseball. Taking the mound in 21 games total with 8 starts, he compiled an astounding 8-0 record with a 2.48 ERA. This incredible phenomenon led card manufacturers to scramble to get Valenzuela rookie cards made and rookie card specialists Topps and Fleer produced them in series one of their sets that year. While production numbers on the rookie cards were high for the time at around one per box, the buzz around Valenzuela increased demand greatly and sharp condition examples now sell for thousands of dollars.

Another immensely popular rookie card from 1980 was that of Boston Red Sox phenom Jim Rice. A stalwart slugger, Rice hit .295 with 22 home runs and 102 RBIs in his first full major league season, finishing second in the AL MVP voting and third in the batting title race. His poise and production at such a young age instantly made him a fan favorite in New England. The Jim Rice rookie card is one of the most iconic from the early 1980s and remains a best-selling vintage card to this day. High grades in the PSA/BGS 9-10 range will fetch over $1,000 easily.

While not technically rookie cards, the baseball cards of established superstars of the day like Mike Schmidt, George Brett, and Nolan Ryan were extremely popular with collectors in 1980 as well. Phillies third baseman Mike Schmidt was coming off three straight NL MVP awards and had established himself as the best player in baseball. Not surprisingly, his 1980 Topps and Donruss cards are perennial sellers. Royals third baseman George Brett was riding high off a league-leading .390 batting average in 1980 along with 24 HRs and 120 RBIs, making his ’80 cards hot commodities. And arguably no pitcher was more dominant than Nolan Ryan, even at age 33 in 1980. Cards showing “The Ryan Express” mowing down hitters sell strong due to his legendary status.

Two relatively unknown young players in 1980 would go on to have Hall of Fame careers – Rickey Henderson and Tony Gwynn. Both had stellar rookie campaigns that gained some early attention from collectors. Rickey Henderson batted .277 with 40 stolen bases for the A’s in ‘80 to announce his blazing speed and skills. Tony Gwynn hit .309 in his first season with the Padres and would win eight batting titles, establishing himself as one of the best pure hitters ever. While their 1980 rookie cards didn’t see enormous popularity at the time, interest has grown tremendously in recent decades as their careers have been appreciated. High-grade examples are pricey collectors’ items today.

The popularity of trading cards was exploding in the early 1980s during the dawn of the junk wax era. Set checklist staples like Don Mattingly, Cal Ripken Jr., and Wade Boggs started gaining notoriety and their rookie cards were flying off hobby store shelves. First-year cards for these future Hall of Famers have become evergreen sellers. Rookies Dwight Gooden and Darryl Strawberry also generated buzz as the dynamic young Mets duo taking New York by storm. Their Topps and Donruss rookies remain pop culture touchstones of the 1980s.

The 1980 season and subsequent baseball card releases really marked a transitional period. Legends of the past still reigned supreme but a new generation of stars was emerging. Collectors snatched up cards of established names like Schmidt, Brett and Ryan as dependable blue-chip investments while eagerly anticipating the next big rookie to hit. Fernando Valenzuela and Jim Rice led the rookie class of ’80 in terms of sales and renown, though names like Henderson, Gwynn, Mattingly, Gooden, and Strawberry wouldn’t be too far behind in the long run. The 1980 sets thus offer a nice blend of proven veterans and future Cooperstown talent still in the early days of stardom.

TOP SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 1980s

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The 1980s saw enormous growth in the baseball card industry as interest in collecting surged. More and more people were discovering the joy of collecting cards and building sets from this era. According to Beckett Media, the baseball card authority, the five top selling baseball cards from the 1980s based on worth and demand are:

Mickey Mantle 1952 Topps – Making its debut in the early 1950s, the Mickey Mantle rookie card has long been considered the crown jewel of sports cards. It was in the 1980s when its star and price really started to shine. Fueled by nostalgia from middle-aged collectors and Mantle’s recent induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame, the allure and scarcity of his rookie card drove prices up dramatically. In pristine Gem Mint 10 condition, examples from the 1980s routinely sold for $1,000-2,000, shattering previous records. While condition and centering impacted value greatly, even low-grade copies in the 1980s sold for hundreds due to Mantle’s status as the “Commerce Comet.” The card had long defined the sport’s collectible market and remains one of the all-time most valuable releases.

Mike Schmidt 1969 Topps Rookie Card – While not quite as imposing in stature as Mantle, Mike Schmidt’s rookie card was another breakout star of the 1980s. Schmidt had firmly cemented himself as one of the game’s premier power hitters by capturing three MVP awards from 1980-1981. With the Phillies slugger approaching legendary status, demand for his rookie skyrocketed. High grade 1969s fetched $300-500 during the decade while even low-end copies sold briskly for $50-100 due to Schmidt’s on-field excellence and scarcity factors with the old Topps design issues. His was a true powerhouse card that held strong during the decade’s bubble.

Nolan Ryan 1968 Topps Rookie Card – Arguably possessing the best “holy trinity” of scarcity, iconic player, and exquisite on-card photo, the Nolan Ryan rookie was the belle of the ball in the 1980s market. With Ryan rewriting the record books for strikeouts throughout the decade as well as nabbing the sixth no-hitter of his career in 1990, collectors wanted a piece of the flamethrower’s beginnings. Graded Mint and near-Mint copies hit $500-1000 depending on centering while even lower condition examples sold at a premium over prices seen just years earlier. Ryan was baseball’s hardest thrower and the card captured lightning in a bottle.

Ozzie Smith 1978 Topps Rookie Card – While not quite in Ryan or Schmidt’s league offensively, Ozzie Smith was already making his mark on the field with his dazzling defensive skills by the late 1970s. Nicknamed the “Wizard,” Smith’s flashy style of play translated to huge popularity among fans and collectors alike during the 1980s sportscard boom. Reflecting his steady rise and emerging all-time great status, his early Topps issues skyrocketed. Even low-end copies sold over $100 in the decade while Gem Mint examples approached $1000 or more when demand was high. Smith defined the shortstop position and collectors wanted to own a piece of that magic.

Cal Ripken Jr. 1981 Topps Rookie Card – While Ripken broke into the majors in 1981, it wasn’t until the later 1980s that his iconic rookie card really started shining. After winning consecutive AL MVPs in 1983 and 1984, establishing himself as a true iron man, and helping guide the Orioles back to prominence, Ripken became a fan favorite and one of the sport’s biggest stars. As a result, his 1981 Topps rookie found itself in huge demand. With Ripken’s consecutive games played streak surpassing Lou Gehrig’s record in 1995, near-pristine copies sold for over $1000. But even heavily played versions still sold briskly for $50-100 based on Ripken’s unprecedented durability and status as a modern era legend and role model.

While these five may have reigned supreme during the 1980s boom, many other singular stars of the era also had coveted rookie and early career cards that took off as well. Players like Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, and Dwight Gooden generated sizable markets in high grades. What the top five cards show is the unique nexus between on-field performance, baseball nostalgia, and savvy marketing that drove the 1980s sports card gold rush forward. Iconic names like Mantle, Schmidt, Ryan, Smith and Ripken pushed collectible frontiers to new heights. Their legendary careers were perfectly captured on early cardboard, creating perfect storms that collectors couldn’t resist. The 1980s may have come and gone, but these top cards remain immortalized as the decade’s true crown jewels.

SELLING OLD BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

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Selling Vintage Baseball Cards on eBay – A Complete Guide

Baseball cards have been collectibles enjoyed by many for decades. With the growing popularity and financial value of vintage cards, selling ones you may have collected years ago on eBay can be a smart way to potentially make some money. In order to get the best prices, there are certain things you need to know about photographing, describing, packing, and shipping these fragile collectibles. This guide will provide tips to help you maximize your profits when auctioning old baseball cards on eBay.

Photographing the Cards

Taking high-quality photos of the front and back of each card is essential for attracting interested buyers. Use a digital camera with at least 8 megapixels of resolution. Make sure the lighting is bright and even without shadows or glare. Place each card on a flat, solid colored surface like a plain piece of printer paper or cardboard. For older cards in poorer condition, photos against a measuring ruler can help buyers assess centering, corners, and edges more accurately.

When photographing, hold the card flat and do not curve or bend the edges. Take the photos straight on without any angles and fill the frame so potential buyers can see minor details. Multiple photos of problematic areas like creases, stains or corner issues may be helpful too. Ensure photos are large high resolution files at least 1500 pixels on the longest edge for proper viewing on desktop and mobile devices.

Describing the Cards

Thoroughly describe each card listing all relevant details about condition, player, set and year. Note any flaws honestly and use condition terms collectors understand like near mint, very good, good, poor. Measure and describe centering. Share the card number if it has one. Describe the photo subject clearly so buyers know exactly what they are seeing. A well written description is key to selling cards for the best potential prices.

Packaging and Shipping

Proper packaging is essential to prevent damage during shipping. Place each card in a penny sleeve or toploader which fits tightly without excess room for movement. Then slip multiple sleeved cards into a thick cardboard card box designed for storage and transport. Surround cards loosely inside the box with air pillows, bubble wrap or tissue paper to avoid bouncing and shifting.

Seal the box securely with strong packing or duct tape and clearly write “Fragile” on the outside. USPS First Class Mail is usually the best option for single cards or small lots priced under $50. For higher value cards, register packages and select tracking and insurance through Priority Mail or Parcel Post. Always ship within 1-3 business days of purchase and provide the tracking number to the buyer for notifications.

Title, Description and Keywords

Create eye-catching titles that include the player name, year and key details like team, set, condition or card number. For example: “1959 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8 Near Mint-Mint” This helps buyers instantly identify desired cards. Thoroughly describe all photography subject matters and any relevant details about the player, team, set or year.

Use as many matching keywords from the title as eBay allows, plus related terms to boost search ranking. Include words like “vintage”, “baseball memorabilia”, “sports collectibles” and names of popular sets from that era like “Topps”, “Fleer” or “Bowman”. Choosing popular search terms is important for getting buyer views and bids.

Determining a Starting Price

Set a starting price and reserve price, if using one, based on current market values for that player, year, set and condition. Check recently sold listings on eBay to gauge fair starting bids. Consider using an auctions format to create buyer interest and potentially drive bids higher than a fixed price listing may achieve. Always be open to making a deal via immediate payment “Buy It Now” for serious inquiries above the reserve too.

Maintaining Positive Feedback

Deliver each purchase on time as described with careful prep and handling. Promptly resolve any issues that arise and communicate with buyers during the transaction. This builds trust and ensures positive ratings essential for repeat business and your eBay account standing. Respond to all questions from interested parties whether they place a bid or not. Courtesy and reliability fosters loyal customers willing to bid higher.

Maximizing Profits with Smart Selling

Periodically list new inventory in small batches rather than all at once. End listings on weekend evenings or during major sporting events when traffic is highest. Cross promote listings across platforms like social media for extra exposure. Stay up to date on the latest collecting trends which dictate prices. With diligent preparation, honest description and reliable customer service, you can optimize sales and profits from vintage baseball card collections on eBay and beyond. Investors, completionists and fans always seek out condition graded pieces of history to preserve memories of America’s favorite pastime.

While identifying desirable cards and establishing fair prices takes research, selling collectibles online through a platform like eBay provides accessibility to a vast, international audience of potential buyers. With care taken in photography, description, packing and shipping products as described, individuals can potentially earn nice returns from baseball memorabilia they may have squirreled away. Knowledge of the collecting community and smart selling strategies are key to attracting top bids and turning old baseball card stashes into cash. With a bit of effort, inventory inherited from family or a past hobby can be marketed worldwide to sports nostalgics seeking small pieces of the past.

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS IN NJ

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Selling Baseball Cards in New Jersey: A Guide for Collectors

New Jersey is home to millions of baseball fans and collectors of sports memorabilia. Baseball cards provide a fun and lucrative collectible that many love to collect, trade, and sell. As baseball season heats up, interest in cards also rises. If you have a collection you want to liquidate or turn a hobby into a side business, learning about selling baseball cards in NJ is a smart move.

While selling cards online provides access to a huge market, dealing face to face also has advantages. Local shops and shows allow you to assess interest, negotiate, educate buyers, and make connections. As a seller, knowing the lay of the land in the Garden State is important for success. Here is an overview of some top options for selling baseball cards in New Jersey.

Card Shops
Baseball card shops thrive across NJ. Stores like Topps in Scotch Plains, Collector’s Universe in Secaucus, and Highlander Cards & Collectibles in Nutley offer foot traffic from diehard collectors. Consigning cards for shops to sell on your behalf can turn cards into cash with little effort. Shops take a cut but handle displays, buyers, and payments. Bringing in desirable older or rare cards may get you store credit or a better commission percentage. Shops also purchase collections outright for resale. Know the going rates by checking eBay sold listings to negotiate fair consignment and buyout offers.

Sports Card & Memorabilia Shows
New Jersey hosts many weekend card shows where hundreds of vendors gather to buy, sell, and trade cards, autographs, and other sports collectibles. Larger spring and fall shows in Edison, Parsippany, and Somerset draw serious collectors ready to spend. Table or floor space rental allows direct interaction and control over pricing. Come prepared with supplies, inventory organized and priced, small bills for change, and the ability to accept credit cards or apps like Venmo. Read vendor forums like Sports Card Forum to research tips and local events.

Public Auctions
Baseball card collections entering the auction circuit often fetch top dollar, especially when rare finds or famous players are involved. Companies like Heritage, Goldin, and memorylane handle consignments for unbiased online and live auctions. Expect fees but global marketing potential. Set reserves if auctioning whole collections rather than singles to avoid fire sales. Search local auction houses as well for solid baseball card offerings. Consignments mean relinquishing control but expanding your potential buyer base.

Classifieds & Online Sales Platforms
Listing cards for sale on sites like eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and community bulletin boards taps local customers without brick and mortar overhead. Take eye-catching photos, describe condition accurately, set realistic but competitive pricing, accept various payment types, and promptly ship with tracking if selling online. Local sales mean no fees but little visibility beyond search engine results. Posting on relevant forums and groups increases exposure. Monitoring recently sold comps on price guide sites ensures you stay market-rate.

Direct Mail & Email Marketing
Growing your network as a serious card seller involves spread the word about your inventory. Maintaining an email list of customers and other collectors allows marketing new acquisitions and inventory specials. Sending introductory packages including a price list and contact info to shops and potential buyers statewide develops relationships for fruitful future sales. Including a personalized greeting, phone number, and return address boosts response rates. Remember data privacy and commercial solicitation rules depending on the recipient type. Targeting areas near teams offers the best demand.

New Jersey is filled with sports memorabilia lovers who appreciate rare finds from all MLB teams. Taking the time to learn local sales environments, standards, and best practices sets you up to profit from your collection. With savvy marketing tailored to collectors in the Garden State, developing a name as a reliable dealer could become a fulfilling new venture or source of extra income for card enthusiasts. Selling baseball cards here provides opportunities to liquidate personal holdings or grow a rewarding business in America’s favorite pastime.

BEST SITE FOR SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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Selling your baseball card collection can be a great way to earn some extra cash, but it’s important to choose the right marketplace. While local card shops are an option, online marketplaces tend to reach a much wider audience of potential buyers. This allows you to get top dollar for your valuable cards. Not all sites are created equal. Some are better suited for high-end rare cards while others cater more to common cards and collections. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top options for selling baseball cards online.

eBay – Without a doubt, eBay is the largest and most well-known marketplace for collecting selling all sorts of collectibles, including baseball cards. With millions of active buyers, eBay gives you access to collectors across the globe. The site takes a final value fee of around 10% but also charges an insertion fee for listing items. Listing cards individually is best for higher end cards to get maximum visibility and interest. You can also sell full collections at once. eBay requires some photography skills to showcase cards well and properly describe condition details. Still, the huge audience makes eBay a top choice.

COMC (Cardboard Connection) – As the leading online marketplace focused solely on trading cards, COMC (formerly known as Blowout Cards) is a top destination for serious collectors. They have a huge database where collectors can check estimated values and recently sold prices to gauge what a card is truly worth. Sellers can send in their entire collection to have COMC professionally photograph, grade if desired, and list cards online. COMC takes a smaller commission rate than eBay. The site is best for common/uncommon cards and full collections rather than individual rare cards. COMC’s streamlined process and collector-focused features make it a go-to for many.

Facebook Marketplace – While not solely dedicated to cards, Facebook Marketplace has become an effective local selling platform. You can reach collectors within a set radius, making it suitable for moving larger collections in one transaction. Listings are free and you deal with payments/shipping yourself. Condition details and clear photos are still important. Marketplace works well for moving entire collections locally at fair bulk prices rather than trying to maximize profits on individual cards. The local focus allows for easy in-person meetups.

Reddit – While a less traditional marketplace, subreddits like r/baseballcards and r/sportscardtracker have active communities of collectors. You can make individual “for sale” posts with photos and prices. Condition and reputation are especially important on these less structured platforms. Reddit isn’t ideal for time-sensitive sales but can be a good way to move individual cards if priced fairly. It helps to first establish yourself as an active, trustworthy member of the card trading subreddit community.

Sports Card Forums – Similar to Reddit, dedicated hobby forums like Sports Card Forum and Blowout Cards Forum have active classified sections. Condition details, reputation, and following forum rules are important. Forums reach a narrower collector audience than the larger platforms but provide access to serious, invested collectors. Forum sales are best suited for high-end cards where word-of-mouth is important. You’ll need to be an active long-time forum member for buyers to feel comfortable transacting.

Twitter – While less structured, Twitter has become a viable marketplace thanks to dedicated “card accounts” run by buyers and sellers. Following the right accounts in your sport allows you to share “for sale” tweets with relevant collectors. Condition details in tweets and photos are important to establish trust. Twitter works best for moving individual cards rather than full collections. It takes time to build an audience but can be effective for finding buyers if you’re active in the Twitter card community.

Local Card Shops – While they have smaller potential audiences, local card shops provide a convenient face-to-face selling option. Shops often buy full collections outright or consign individual cards with a commission. You avoid fees but may not get top recent market value for cards. Shops are best for common/bulk cards rather than valuable singles. Bringing in your entire collection at once simplifies the process. Just be sure to research typical commission/buy rates so you don’t leave money on the table.

When choosing a site, consider your collection type along with your goals for timeframe and effort. Sites like eBay provide the largest potential audience but require more active listing/sales management. COMC and local shops offer streamlined bulk options. For high-end cards, focus on platforms like Twitter and forums that serious collectors frequent. Doing your research on typical recent sold prices and market values is important to price cards properly and get top dollar. With the right market strategy, you can ensure your baseball card collection finds appreciative new homes and collectors.

TOP 10 SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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The hobby of collecting baseball cards has existed for over 130 years and has grown exponentially in popularity. With the rise of direct consumer access to purchase and trade cards online, the baseball card market has seen record sales in recent decades. Some of the most coveted and valuable baseball cards ever printed have changed hands for millions of dollars. Here are the top 10 highest selling baseball cards of all time based on actual confirmed sale prices:

1911 T206 Honus Wagner – $3.12 million (2007 sale)
The iconic T206 Honus Wagner card is one of the most famous and sought-after cards ever printed due to its rarity and subject matter. Produced from 1909-1911 as part of the American Tobacco Company’s plant set, it is believed that only 50-200 Wagner cards were printed compared to the estimated 60 million other T206 cards. The superb condition of the 2007 sale card is what set the record price.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – $2.88 million (2021 sale)
Mickey Mantle is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time and one of the first superstars of the modern baseball card era. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card introduced “The Commerce Comet” to the baseball card collecting world. The newly sold example was in pristinemint condition, earning its spot as one of the most expensive cards ever sold.

1957 Topps Ted Williams – $2.92 million (2012 sale)
The 1957 Topps Ted Williams card marks the last season of the legendary “Teddy Ballgame’s” career before retiring for the first time. As one of the finest examples graded, it sold for a record price, making it one of the most expensive non-rookie cards ever. Williams’ career stats and playing excellence through two wars added to its significance and demand.

1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner – $3.12 million (2016 sale)
Another example of the ultra-rare T206 Honus Wagner card, this one is notable because it was the first million-dollar baseball card ever sold privately. The card was authenticated and graded as an SGC 2, equivalent to a PSA 2.5. Despite its poor condition, it demonstrates the literal value collectors place on one of just a handful of extant examples of this iconic issue.

1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner – $3.24 million (2021 sale)
Yet another record-setting sale of a T206 Honus Wagner card, this one claimed the title of highest price ever achieved for any card. Given a PSA Authentication grade of Good 2, it demonstrates how condition is not always the determining factor in the value of these historic rarities. The buyer chose to spend over $3 million to acquire one of the most prized cards in the collecting universe.

2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Prospectscard – $3.84 million (2021 sale)
A relatively modern issue by comparison, however this card introduced the world to MLB superstar Mike Trout. Pulled fresh from a pack by its original owner in 2009, the rookie card of the now three-time MVP is the highest valued modern card ever sold. As Trout went on to become arguably the greatest baseball player of his generation, demand and price for this ultra-rare prospect card skyrocketed.

1909-1911 T206 Johnny Evers – $2.92 million (2016 sale)
While not quite as heralded historically as the Wagner within the set, the T206 Johnny Evers is nonetheless one of the most valuable non-Wagner cards available. Evers’ key role on the great Chicago Cubs teams of the early 20th century helped drive the card’s price at a record level. Like Wagner examples, the card’s immense rarity contributed to an astronomical final hammer price.

1933 Goudey #106 Babe Ruth – $5.2 million (2016 sale)
The only Babe Ruth rookie card in existence, the 1933 Goudey #106 introduced “The Bambino” to collectors. Perhaps the most famous baseball player who ever lived, combined with its singular importance in the set as Ruth’s first card, it set records as the most valuable pre-war card. Its unprecedented price demonstrated Ruth’s unparalleled legacy and iconic status in sports history.

1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner – $6.6 million (2021 sale)
The highest price realized at public auction until being surpassed by the number one entry. Like the previous Wagners, its primary claim to fame is its immense rarity as perhaps one of fewer than 60 surviving examples. Considered the “Mona Lisa” of trading cards, the interest shown by breaking the $6 million barrier proved the timeless appeal and mystique surrounding this legendary issue.

1954 Topps Mickey Mantle – $12.6 million (2022 private sale)
Shattering all existing records, a PSA NM-MT 8 copy of the ultra-premium ’52 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card was acquired in a private sale for a staggering $12.6 million in early 2022. Considered the Holy Grail of sports cards due to its subject, set, and condition, it demonstrated Mantle’s iconic status and brought unmatched visibility to the collecting phenomenon. Truly cementing its placement as the most valuable trading card of all time.

The aforementioned baseball cards demonstrate a multitude of factors that drive value in the competitive marketplace. Rarity, condition, player pedigree, and historic or aesthetic significance all play crucial roles. While new benchmarks are sure to be achieved, these ten cards illustrate the intrinsic worth placed on prime examples of collectibles that have entrenched themselves into the national pastime’s fabric for generations.