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BEST SELLING BASEBALL CARDS 2023

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The baseball card market experienced significant growth over the past couple of years, and 2023 was no exception. As interest in the hobby increased, certain cards rose to the top of the best sellers lists. While rookie cards of emerging young stars like Wander Franco and Julio Rodriguez sold well, vintage cards from legendary players also found many new homes. Let’s take a look at some of the top selling baseball cards of the past year based on sales data from the major auction houses and card shops.

The most in-demand baseball card of 2023 was the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8. Widely considered the premier vintage card on the market, the Mantle is the ultimate trophy card for serious collectors. Several PSA 8 copies crossed the auction block in 2023, with the highest selling for an astonishing $2.88 million through Goldin Auctions in January. While nine-figure sums are still rare for cards, it shows just how coveted a nice example of The Mick’s iconic rookie card has become. Several other PSA 8 Mantles also topped $1 million last year.

Another perennial best seller is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Considered the rarest and most valuable trading card in existence, high-grade Wagners will likely always be at the top of the charts when condition permits public sale. In 2023, a PSA Authentic specimen sold for $6.6 million through Robert Edward, setting a new record. Other high-end Wagners also commanded seven figures. While most collectors can only dream of owning one, the card’s mystique and historical significance ensure it remains hugely popular.

Vintage rookie cards also performed very well. A PSA 5 example of the 1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson changed hands for $1.8 million through Goldin, reflecting strong interest in the “Shoeless” Joe rookie despite his controversial life story. A PSA 3 1914 Cracker Jack Eddie Plank fetched $792,000 at the same auction. Plank’s rarity and condition scarcity made it a true condition-census card. Over in the modern sector, a PSA 10 1986 Fleer Mark McGwire rookie sold for $387,500 through Heritage, still a coveted chase card 36 years later.

Moving into the post-war era, the 1952 Topps Jackie Robinson remained a consistent mover thanks to its iconic subject and stunning visuals. Several high-grade Robinson rookies crossed the block, with a PSA 8 copy selling for $240,000 through Robert Edward. The 1952 Topps Hank Aaron rookie also stayed popular – a PSA 9 example made $144,000 through PWCC. Both these cards are must-owns for anyone building a complete vintage set.

The 1970s produced several memorable rookie cards that retained strong collector demand. A PSA 8 1975 Topps George Brett rookie traded at $99,000 through Goldin Auctions. Brett exemplified consistent excellence throughout his career. The 1975 Topps Robin Yount rookie also stayed sought after – a PSA 9 copy brought $72,000 through the same auction house. Yount’s smooth left-handed swing and two MVP awards made him a fan favorite. Over in basketball-style issues, a PSA 9 1979 Topps Cal Ripken Jr. rookie commanded $48,000 through Robert Edward, still one of the most iconic modern rookie cards out there.

Jumping to the late 80s-90s junk wax era, select rookies started gaining new appreciation as stars of that time entered the Hall of Fame. The 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie remained the most coveted, with a PSA 10 example selling for $109,500 through PWCC. Several PSA 9 copies also broke the five-figure barrier. The 1990 Topps Frank Thomas rookie also gained steam – a BGS 9.5 copy made $33,600 through the same auction house. Both Griffey and Thomas exemplified prolific all-around excellence that has earned them spots in Cooperstown.

Naturally, modern stars produced some of the best selling cards of the past year too. The 2021 Topps Chrome Blue Refractor Auto of Wander Franco, widely considered the top prospect in baseball, continued its meteoric rise in value. A PSA 10 copy reached $640,000 through Goldin Auctions. Franco quickly proved himself as the future face of the Tampa Bay Rays franchise. The 2021 Bowman Chrome Blue Auto of Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez also gained momentum, with a BGS 9.5 example selling for $288,000 through Robert Edward – a true record-breaker for a modern card at the time. Rodriguez’s electric rookie campaign made him an instant star.

In summary, 2023 saw continued strength in the sports card and memorabilia market, driven by new collectors, strong economic conditions, and the sustained popularity of the hobby overall. Vintage stars like Mantle and Wagner will likely always be at the top in value, but modern issues also gained serious appreciation as today’s stars like Franco and Rodriguez begin to enter the collecting conversation. With a fresh crop of rookies on the horizon and more high-profile auctions planned for 2024, the baseball card market looks poised to remain one of the collectibles world’s most vibrant sectors. Strong fundamentals, a mix of history and present-day appeal, and the lure of finding that next big sleeper pick will ensure cards stay a favorite collecting category for years to come.

BEST WEBSITE FOR SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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When it comes to selling baseball cards online, there are a few top options collectors consider. With the rise of e-commerce, many websites have emerged that cater specifically to the baseball card market, making it easier than ever for collectors to sell cards they no longer want or need. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most popular websites for selling baseball cards online.

eBay – Without a doubt, eBay is one of the largest and most popular online marketplaces for selling all sorts of collectibles, including baseball cards. With millions of active buyers browsing every day, eBay gives sellers access to a huge potential customer base. Listing items is simple, and sellers have the option to list auctions or set fixed prices. eBay takes a final value fee from the sale price, but it’s worth it for the massive exposure. The downside is higher fees than specialized card sites and risk of issues with buyers. Still, eBay remains a top choice due its enormous reach.

COMC (Cardboard Connection) – As one of the largest and most trusted online baseball card shops, COMC (formerly known as Collector’s Universe) is a great option specifically for cards. Sellers can send their cards to COMC’s warehouse where they are professionally graded, photographed, and listed for sale. COMC handles the transactions and shipping. Sellers earn money through store credit that can be used for purchases or withdrawn. COMC has very reasonable fees and takes care of customer service so sellers don’t have to deal with buyers directly. It’s a hands-off way to sell cards at a reputable site.

Sports Card Forum Marketplace – For collectors who want a dedicated community of buyers and sellers, Sports Card Forum is a top choice. The marketplace connects collectors and has a large, active user base. Sellers can list individual cards, teams, sets or entire collections. Feedback and reputation matter here, so it’s important to be an established member of the forum. Listings remain active for 60 days and the site takes a 5% fee on completed sales. It’s best suited to mid-range cards rather than rare, high-dollar items.

Reddit – While not a dedicated card site, the sports card trading subreddit is a popular spot for collectors. Reddit has a huge user base overall and the card trading community is very active. Sellers can post individual cards, teams or entire collections with images and asking prices. Potential buyers will comment or message with offers. It’s a peer-to-peer marketplace rather than a traditional selling platform. Sellers don’t pay any fees but must be comfortable handling payments and shipping outside a secure marketplace.

Twitter – For high-end cards, Twitter is becoming increasingly popular as collectors and dealers use the platform to make connections, show new acquisitions and facilitate trades or sales. Well-known dealers have large followings and frequently post rare and valuable cards for sale. Interested buyers direct message with offers. Again, payments and shipping are handled privately rather than through a marketplace. Sellers must be cautious and only deal with trusted, established accounts.

Sportlots – Another dedicated baseball card marketplace, Sportlots caters more toward mid-range to higher end cards. Sellers set fixed prices or take best offers on individual cards or full collections. The site has robust search and filtering tools to help buyers find what they want. Sellers can choose between two price tiers with different fee structures depending on the level of service needed. Sportlots has been in business for over 20 years and built a reputation of trust in the hobby.

Collector’s Cache – For a more personalized selling experience, Collector’s Cache allows collectors to set up their own virtual card shop. Sellers create a profile, then photograph and list their available cards. Potential buyers can browse shops and contact sellers directly. This gives sellers more control over their inventory and transactions compared to a larger marketplace. It also means handling all customer service, payments and shipping outside the site’s systems. Collector’s Cache charges reasonable monthly and per-listing fees.

Those represent some of the most popular and trusted online marketplaces for selling baseball cards. The best option depends on factors like the type and value of cards, desired level of seller involvement, and preference between peer-to-peer or hands-off selling. With so many dedicated sites and communities, collectors have plenty of good choices for finding new homes for cards they no longer want in their collections. With the right research and strategy, sellers can maximize the prices they receive for selling baseball cards online.

TAXES ON SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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Taxes on Selling Baseball Cards: Understanding the Key Tax Implications

Selling baseball cards can be a fun and potentially profitable hobby or side business. It’s important for those who sell cards on a regular basis to understand the potential tax obligations associated with these sales. Whether you’re an avid collector looking to sell off duplicates, or run a store that frequently buys and sells cards, your sales are subject to various federal, state, and local taxes. Failure to properly pay the required taxes when owed can result in penalties and fines from the IRS. With the growing popularity of online auction sites and collectibles markets, it’s more important than ever for baseball card sellers to familiarize themselves with the tax rules.

The most fundamental tax that applies to baseball card sales is income tax. Any profit generated from selling cards that were not purchased for reselling must be reported as taxable self-employment income on Schedule C of Form 1040. To determine your profit, you’ll subtract your cost basis or what you paid for the cards from your total sales. It’s crucial to keep thorough records of all purchase and sale transactions. Most hobby income falls under the IRS definition of a “for-profit” activity due to its regular and repetitive nature. As such, your net income will be taxed at your ordinary marginal tax rate just like wages.

Many sellers incorrectly assume that since they purchase and sell cards as a hobby, any income is exempt from income taxes. The IRS looks at various factors to determine if an activity is engaged in for profit or just for hobby purposes. Things like maintaining detailed books and records, expertise in the hobby, spending significant time and resources, and potentially earning a profit historically all point towards operating as a business. Hobby income is still considered taxable, you just can’t use hobby losses to offset other income on your return. Be sure to consult IRS Publication 535 to understand the nuances here.

In addition to income tax, you may face self-employment tax obligations on your net earnings from card sales. Self-employment tax currently consists of a 15.3% Social Security and Medicare tax on up to $147,000 of net earnings for tax year 2022. This tax is essentially the employer and employee share of FICA taxes combined into one amount that self-employed individuals pay. You report self-employment taxes owed on Schedule SE and pay them annually along with your income tax. Keep in mind, self-employment tax applies regardless of whether you show an overall profit or loss from your activity.

At the state level, you may need to pay sales tax when conducting card transactions within your state of residence. Most states impose a statewide sales tax that applies to the retail sale of tangible personal property like collectibles. Rates vary by location but are typically between 4-8%. You’re responsible for collecting sales tax from customers on taxable sales and remitting the amounts to your state periodically, along with filing any required sales tax returns. You may need to register as a seller with your state. Out-of-state sales are usually not subject to sales tax in the destination state if shipping is provided.

There are also a few special situations involving baseball card sales that carry their own unique tax implications:

Auctions: If you regularly sell cards through online auction sites, the auction houses are required to send you a 1099-K form if your annual gross payments exceed $20,000 and over 200 transactions. This third-party reporting helps ensure you report all income.

Consignment sales: When selling cards on consignment through a store, any profit is still taxable to you as the original owner. The store should provide you a 1099-MISC if payments of over $600 are made.

Bulk sales: Selling an entire collection in one transaction qualifies as an asset sale. Any profit over the cost basis would trigger capital gains taxes instead of ordinary income rates. You may owe capital gains even if the sale price was less than expected.

International sales: Income from overseas sales still needs to be reported but may not be subject to self-employment tax depending on any tax treaties. You’re responsible for pay required foreign taxes and reporting foreign accounts over $10,000 at any point in the year on Form 8938.

Given the various tax obligations associated with baseball card sales, it’s crucial for collectors and sellers to keep accurate books and records to properly calculate taxes owed. Consulting a tax professional can also help ensure full compliance and avoid potential penalties down the road. Staying on top of recordkeeping and filing tax returns punctually will go a long way in keeping hobby income a low-stress venture. Failing to pay required taxes appropriately could overshadow profits and enjoyment from a collecting pastime.

TOP SELLING YANKEE BASEBALL CARDS

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The New York Yankees are arguably the most successful franchise in Major League Baseball, having won 27 World Series championships throughout their illustrious history. With immense on-field success and a diehard fanbase spanning generations, Yankees cards naturally hold significant value for collectors. Let’s take a look at some of the top selling and most desirable Yankee cards that have moved through the hobby over the years.

One of the most expensive Yankee cards ever sold is the legendary Mickey Mantle rookie card from 1952 Topps. In pristine mint condition, Mantle rookie cards have crossed the auction block for over $2 million. What makes this card so valuable is the rarity of high grade examples remaining, as it was Mantle’s first widely distributed card when he was already an established MLB superstar by the age of 20. For collectors, owning a Mantle rookie is the pinnacle and regarded as the financial cornerstone of any collection.

Another hugely valuable Mantle card is his 1953 Topps card, which pictures Mickey in his classic batting stance. This is arguably Mantle’s most iconic card image. High Tek examples have sold for over $500,000 due to its rarity, photo quality, and because it captures Mantle in the prime of his storied career. From 1952-1956, Mantle won 3 MVP awards and led the league in home runs four times, ensuring any cards from this peak period would become tremendously desirable.

Babe Ruth, known as the Sultan of Swat, is one of the most popular figures in U.S. sports history and his cards hold significant prominence. Cards featuring Ruth in his Yankees playing days regularly crack six-figure sales prices. One example is the Babe Ruth 1920 W515-1 card from the Goudey series, considered one of the earliest mass-produced baseball cards. With brilliant color and Ruth pictured as a Boston Red Sox player before joining the Yankees, mint specimens have sold for over $600,000 through public auction.

Lou Gehrig’s legendary career was sadly cut short by ALS, immortalizing him in Yankee lore. As one of the original Bronx Bombers along with Ruth and Mantle, Gehrig cards remain highly coveted. His 1933 Goudey card sells for five figures even in low grade, and a PSA 9 Specimen went for $345,000 in 2014 due to its flashy design showing Gehrig in action. The 1933 is one of the most famous and earliest Gehrig cards highlighting his staggering consecutive game streak record. While not as valuable as a Mantle rookie, pristine 1933 Goudeys still command impressive prices.

In more modern times, rookie cards for stars who emerged as homegrown Yankees talents remain must-haves. Derek Jeter’s 1992 Bowman PS SA rookie in mint condition has exceeded $100,000 at public auction. As the longtime Captain and face of the franchise who led the late 90s dynasty to 4 titles, Jeter became a global sports icon and his rookie card reflects that cultural significance. Similarly, a 2007 Bowman Sterling auto-graph of Joba Chamberlain, the flame-throwing rookie sensation dubbed “Joba The Heat” by fans, sold for over $25,000 as interest grew in the next great Yankee pitcher.

For collectors seeking a high value card of a dominant pitcher, look no further than the Mariano Rivera refractor from 2003 Topps Chrome. As the greatest closer in baseball history who helped the Core Four Yankees win 5 championships, pristine Riveras routinely sell in the $5,000 range. The flashy refractors from that influential chrome set added to Rivera’s allure. Later in his career, serial-numbered auto or memorabilia cards like issues from 1998 Upper Deck capture Mo at the height of his powers as arguably the most celebrated reliever ever.

Two other position players whose impressive Yankee careers made their cards highly sought after are Don Mattingly and Bernie Williams. “Donnie Baseball’s” 1984 Topps rookie PSA 10 sold for $24,500, capitalizing on his status as the heart and soul of those great 80s Yankees teams before injuries limited his prime. Center fielder Bernie Williams was a linchpin of the 1990s-2000s dynasties and his 1995 Studios rookie card fetches over $1,000 graded mint. Both Mattingly and Williams cards resonate with collectors due to their consistency, longevity, and sustained excellence in Yankee pinstripes.

Cards showing Yankee legends and all-time greats like Mantle, Ruth, Gehrig, Jeter, Rivera, Mattingly and Williams in their prime will remain blue-chip investments. With the franchise’s rich history spanning over a century of success, new generations of collectors will always seek out the cards that defined the eras of these prolific Bronx Bombers. Condition is critical, but even well-loved examples can garner high values simply due to the subject’s strong affiliation with the most famous brand in baseball.

TOP SELLING 90’s BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990s was truly the golden era of baseball card collecting. Thanks to the rise of the internet and online auction sites like eBay, baseball cards from the 1990s exploded in popularity and value throughout the late 90s and 2000s. While stars from previous eras like Mickey Mantle and Honus Wagner still command top dollar, many consider the cards produced in the 1990s to be the most iconic of the modern collecting era. Here are some of the most valuable and top selling 90s baseball cards that continue to attract attention from collectors today.

1996 SP Authentic Gold Refractor Ken Griffey Jr. #1 – Widely considered the holy grail of 90s cards, the Griffey Gold Refractor is one of the rarest modern baseball cards ever produced. Sporting Products only made 16 of these ultra-short printed refractors. Graded examples in Gem Mint 10 condition have sold for over $100,000 at auction. Even well-centered lower graded copies still fetch five figures. Griffey was already a mega star at this point of his career and this card combines his popularity with extreme scarcity.

1997 Fleer Metal Universe Ken Griffey Jr. #56 – Like the Gold Refractor, the Metal Universe Griffey captured his stardom combined with an insanely low print run. Only 13 copies are known to exist, making this arguably the most valuable non-game-used 90s card in existence. A PSA 10 sold for $657,250 at auction in 2017. Even lower graded copies sell for north of $150,000. The holographic rainbow refractor design is one of the coolest card designs from the 1990s as well.

1994 SP Authentic Artwork Ken Griffey Jr. #1 – While not quite as scarce as the previous two Griffey cards, the Artwork insert was still highly limited with an estimated print run around 100 copies. The design features a special watercolor painting of Griffey incorporated right on the front of the card. High grade specimens have crossed the $50,000 mark. This remains one of the most iconic and desirable 90s base set cards.

1998 SPx Chipper Jones Autograph RC #97 – Very few rookies from the 90s had the Hall of Fame bound career that Chipper Jones enjoyed. Like most autograph rookies from the decade, this Jones RC was short printed from the factory. Pristine PSA 10 examples have sold for over $30,000. Even raw or lower graded 9s still pull in five figures. Jones’ talent combined with the rarity of his autographed rookie makes this a true blue chip 90s card.

1992 Bowman Derek Jeter RC #644 – While not the costliest 90s rookie, Jeter’s debut Bowman card remains one of the most iconic and sought after of the decade. Thanks to his lengthy Yankee career and Captain persona, it’s one of the most historic rookie cards ever produced. High grade PSA 10 Jeter rookies have still crossed the $100,000 mark. Even well-centered raw copies can fetch over $1,000 due to the card’s widespread appeal among collectors.

1995 SP Authentic Cal Ripken Jr. #1 – Like Griffey and Jeter, Ripken was one of the true superstars of the 90s. This incredible 1/1 parallel took things to an extreme new level. Obviously, only one exists and when it last sold graded PSA 9.5 quality in 2015, the price tag was a staggering $262,500. While totally unobtainable for most, it’s one of the crown jewels from the decade.

1996 Ultra Ken Griffey Jr. #130 – Ultra stamped its name as one of the premier 90s insert sets thanks to parallels like this short printed Griffey. Only 100 are believed to exist making it significantly rarer than even the base Ultra set. Top grades routinely pull in north of $20,000. Even raw copies in average condition still trade in the four figure range.

1990 Bowman Chipper Jones RC #493 – While not nearly as iconic as other rookies on this list, a pristine PSA 10 Jones broke the $100,000 barrier in 2016. And rightfully so – he had a Hall of Fame career and his rookie remains one of the rarest from the entire set with estimates as low as 50-100 produced. Even lesser 9’s and 8’s still fetch $30-50k slabbed.

1998 Sports Illustrated For Kids Derek Jeter #SJ1 – Not a true “baseball card”, but rather a gum-included newsletter insert featuring a painted portrait of the Yankee Clipper. Again, Jeter’s celebrity combined with the set’s ultra-low print run of 100 copies or less makes this one of the most valuable non-autograph 90s items. Several have reached above $50,000 sales in excellent condition.

1992 Stadium Club Derek Jeter RC #277 – While not as famous as his Bowman, the Jeter Stadium Club rookie employs vibrant photography on a simpler yet iconic design. High grades still pull six figure prices. Even well-centered raw copies can fetch over $1000. Along with Bowman, it’s one of the most historic and key rookie cards from the 1990s collecting boom.

Astronomical price tags for incredibly rare examples like the Griffey Gold Refractor show there is still huge collector demand for iconic cards produced during baseball’s renaissance in the 1990s. Thanks to stars like Griffey, Jeter, Jones, and Ripken achieving so much success both on the field and in the trading card community, cards from this decade will surely remain Blue Chips in the hobby for generations to come.

TARGET SELLING BASEBALL CARDS

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Target Selling Baseball Cards: Maximizing Your Profits in a Competitive Market

The baseball card market is a lucrative one for savvy collectors looking to leverage their collections to make a profit. It’s also a very competitive market, with many seasoned collectors and dealers all vying for the hottest cards. If you want to target sell your baseball cards at shows, online, or through your local shop, you’ll need to adopt smart strategies to get the best prices and beat out the competition. In this article, we’ll cover the essentials of target selling baseball cards effectively.

Start With an Inventory: The first step is to take stock of your entire baseball card collection. Carefully look through every card and log each one individually, noting details like the player, year, condition, and any other relevant information. This inventory will allow you to spot your most valuable cards and trace what you have. It’s important to be methodical and thorough at this stage.

Condition is Key: A card’s condition is one of the biggest determinants of its value. Take your time grading each card’s condition on the widely accepted 1-10 scale. Look for bends, creases, edging issues, centering problems or other flaws that could lower the grade. Higher grade cards in mint condition will sell for significantly more than those that are worn or damaged. Photography and descriptions must accurately portray condition to establish trust with buyers.

Research Prices: Armed with your detailed inventory and condition grades, it’s time to research comparable sale prices for each card. The gold standard is eBay’s “Sold Listings” feature, where you can see what identical or near-identical cards have actually been selling for after competitive bidding. Also check websites like 130point.com, Beckett, PSA SMR Price Guide and online card shops for accurate market valuations. Document your expected sale value for each card.

Consign vs. Sell Direct: Serious collectors will want to send valuable vintage cards to a respected third-party grading service like PSA or BGS to authenticate the condition and enhance resale value. But this costs money up front. For lower value modern cards, you may opt to sell direct without grading. For mid-range cards, consider consigning to a reputable local shop that takes a commission only if the cards sell.

Organize for Shows: Major card shows draw thousands of eager buyers. To target sell effectively, pack cards neatly in toploaders or one-touches in binders organized by sport, era and player. Bring a table, chairs and display case if possible. Prominently post your prices/condition sheets for easy reference. Stay enthusiastic and focus on efficiently moving inventory at fair prices. Be willing to negotiate within reason as the show winds down.

Photograph for Online Sales: Taking professional-quality photos of each card front and back against a neutral backdrop is a must for online sales. Clearly show centering, edges and any flaws up close. Write detailed yet concise listings noting all relevant info buyers need. eBay, Instagram, Twitter and specialty trade sites provide the largest potential audiences. Optimize listings with relevant keywords and competitive starting prices.

In-Person Evaluation: Nothing beats allowing serious collectors to personally handle and inspect target cards. Local shops provide this access and take a small cut. Network with regular customers and make yourself available to review personal collections and provide knowledgeable opinions on valuations and trade possibilities. Honest evaluations build trusting long-term client relationships.

Maximize Social Proof: Promote your hottest offers across social media channels collectors frequent like Facebook groups dedicated to certain teams, eras or players. Share photos and details of recent big online or in-person sales you facilitated. Testimonials from satisfied buyers provide powerful social proof that establishes you as a credible seller. Engage with other dealers to stay on top of market trends and opportunities.

Take Your Time: While it’s tempting to liquidate inventory quickly, rushing into snap sales often leaves money on the table. Give premium target cards especially the chance to draw highest bidding over 7-10 day auction periods. Carefully pack and ship promptly once sold to maintain your positive seller reputation. With patience and strategic targeting of buyers, you maximize the long-term profits in your baseball card collection.

To effectively target sell baseball cards, take inventory of what you have, grade conditions precisely, research values, optimize sales channels, document professionally, maintain buyer trust and relationships, and allow the market to work in your favor over time rather than forcing quick sales. Following these best practices will help aspiring dealers profitably leverage their collections against the competitive pressures of the baseball card resale industry. With diligent work cultivating buyers and selling strategically, your collection can fund additional acquisitions and become a rewarding hobby business.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS SELLING ON EBAY

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Baseball cards have long been a popular collectible item that many have enjoyed accumulating and tracking the progress of their favorite players. With the rise of online marketplaces like eBay, it’s easier than ever to see what the most in-demand and valuable baseball cards are currently fetching top prices. While any valuable vintage card could surge in popularity and price at a given moment, here’s a look at some of the consistent top sellers within the hobby based on recent eBay sale data:

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – The undisputed king of cards, the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner portrait remains the holy grail for collectors. Only around 60 are known to exist in varying conditions. The finest examples in near-mint to mint condition have reached prices well into the millions on the primary market. On eBay, even well-worn low-grade examples in poor condition routinely sell in the six-figure range. In 2021, one Wagner traded hands on eBay for $3.12 million, setting a new online record.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – The first Topps baseball card of the Commerce, Texas, native is one of the most iconic in the hobby. High-grade copies with strong eye appeal in near-mint or better condition have reached $2 million-plus at auction. On eBay last year, a PSA 8 copy sold for $445,000. Condition is critical, as worn low-grades can pull in just a few thousand dollars.

1953 Topps Jackie Robinson – Breaking the MLB color barrier, Jackie Robinson’s Topps rookie is hugely influential in and out of the sport. High-grade PSA Gem Mint 10 examples have passed $500,000 at auction. On eBay last year, a PSA 8 copy made $118,888. Like Mantle, condition separates the wheat from the chaff price-wise.

1909-11 T206 Joe Jackson – “Shoeless Joe” Jackson’s rookie T206 has surged in popularity and price in recent years. High-quality copies in PSA 4-6 condition have reached $200,000-plus at major auctions. On eBay last year, a low-grade PSA 1 copy still pulled $33,300 from a collector.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – Hammerin’ Hank Aaron’s rookie card has grown into one of the premier modern rookie cards. High-grade PSA/BGS Gem Mint 10 specimens have crossed $1 million recently. On eBay last year, a sharp PSA 9 copy made $60,600. Condition remains crucial to maximize value.

1952 Bowman Mickey Mantle – Considered by some to be Mantle’s true rookie card since it’s his earliest widely distributed card in color. Top PSA 10 Gems have reached $350,000-plus at auction. On eBay last year, a PSA 9 copy commanded $38,888. Huge condition premium like his ’52 Topps.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank, Chief Bender – Two rare rookie T206s starring each member of the Philadelphia A’s Hall of Fame pitching duo. High grades of each hit $100,000+ levels in 2021. On eBay, a PSA 4 Plank sold for $22,200 while a PSA 5 Bender made $30,600.

1909-11 T206 Christy Mathewson – The legendary “Big Six” hurler’s T206 remains quite valuable, even in lower grades. A Gem PSA 10 sold for over $125,000 last year. On eBay, a decent PSA 3.5 copy realized $20,000. Any T206 star pitcher sells strongly.

1972 Topps Nolan Ryan – The Express’ solo season with the California Angels and one of his most striking cards. Top PSA 10 Gems have cleared six-figures at auction. On eBay last year, a super-sharp PSA 9 gem made $26,660. Big condition premium like vintage stars.

1938 Play Ball Dizzy Dean – One of the few cards representing the Gashouse Gang ace’s playing days. Higher graded PSA NM-MT 7-8 copies have reached $50,000+. On eBay last year, a well-centered PSA 6 sold for $22,855. Harder-to-find older stars command strong prices.

1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson – The Big Train’s T206 rookie sells well in any grade due to his iconic status. A mid-grade PSA 5 went for $18,888 on eBay last year. Any copy in decent condition still fetches five-figure sums. Numbers for Johnson were not as limited.

1952 Topps Willie Mays – Arguably the best all-around player’s esteemed rookie card. Top PSA/BGS 10 Gems have blown past six-figures. Last year on eBay, a sharp BGS 9.5 realized a decent $14,100. Big money for a ’52 Topps rookie in top condition.

1909-11 T206 Bob Gibson – The fireballing Hall of Famer’s T206 is relatively tough to find. Higher grades up to PSA 8 have reached $30,000+ levels at auction. Last year on eBay, a well-centered PSA 4.5 copy sold for $11,100. Any T206 star commands big bucks.

It’s important to note that mint condition and third-party authentication are crucial to maximize returns on vintage cards, especially for the most valuable examples. But even lower-grade copies of the all-time greats from storied early sets like the T206 and ‘52 Topps typically sell well into the thousands on eBay compared to modern prospects or less heralded players that may pull just a few hundred in similar condition. As with any collectible market, baseball cards are driven by desire, condition and scarcity. The names featured above remain consistently sought after by today’s leading collectors.

SELLING BASEBALL CARDS IN CT

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Selling baseball cards can be a lucrative hobby or business in the state of Connecticut. There is a robust market for vintage and modern baseball cards throughout the diverse communities across CT. Home to several major league teams including the Red Sox, Yankees, Mets and Phillies within driving distance, baseball fandom and card collecting remain popular pastimes for many residents. Those looking to start or expand their baseball card sales and transactions have a variety of options available in the state.

Among the top methods for selling baseball cards in Connecticut are Local Card/Collectible Shows. Shows typically take place on weekends throughout the calendar year, primarily at hotels, convention centers, VFW halls and similar venues across CT. Major annual shows include Hartford Conventions, New London Card Show, and Shoreline Card Show amongst others. These events draw hundreds of vendors and thousands of collectors for a day of buying, selling, and trading of all types of cards, memorabilia and other sports and non-sports collectibles. Admission and table fees are affordable, making shows an accessible place to both buy inventory and find customers.

Another straightforward approach is Local Card Shops. Dozens of baseball card and memorabilia specialty shops are sprinkled throughout cities and towns in Connecticut. Regulars and visitors alike frequent these locales not only to purchase new and vintage cards, but also learn about trends, research players/teams, and socialize with fellow enthusiasts. Shop owners are often willing to purchase collection upgrades outright, or sell on consignment taking a percentage of proceeds. Developing rapport with a local shop gives sellers steady exposure to motivated collectors.

Of course in today’s digital age, Ecommerce Websites have become a leading distribution channel for collectibles sales. Powerful platforms such as eBay, COMC, SportsCardForum, and Direct Deals enable sellers to list cards 24/7 reaching collectors worldwide. While listing fees apply, the potential customer reach vastly exceeds any local venue. Proper photography, descriptions, and competitive pricing coupled with positive seller reviews help build an online storefront attracting repeat buyers. For those comfortable with web-based commerce transacting remotely, digital marketplaces provide scale nearly unmatched.

In Connecticut, Regional Auctions fill an important niche serving intermediate to high-end cards. Heritage, Robert Edward, and Grey Flannel regularly conduct Connecticut auctions, both live and online, throughout the year. Important consignments of rare vintage stars, complete sets, error/variations, and other premium inventory frequently realize strong prices. While seller commissions range 15-20%, major auction houses handle promotion, authentication, escrow, payment processing and more. Their sales history and sheer buyer pool makes auctions worthwhile for listing desirable seven-figure graded cards or sizeable estate collections.

On platforms like YouTube, Podcasts, and specific forums/groups, Networking with other CT card traders is the social way to get buys and sells moving. Communicating with fellow enthusiasts builds lasting connections for continual deal flow. Some hosts establish locally-focused boards and channels focused purely on deals among fellow Nutmeggers. While not a passive sales channel, community involvement and social currency with trusted members over time makes for repeat, referral business.

From a licensing and regulations perspective, selling baseball cards as a side business or full-time venture in Connecticut requires no special permits. Resellers should obtain necessary seller’s permits if retail sales taxes apply to transactions per their municipality or county rules regarding home occupations. Federal and state tax laws also govern potential income tax implications for sales over certain income thresholds. Overall the conditions for buying and selling cards commercially align with most small collector hobbies or small independent dealers nationwide.

Several key strategies stack the odds of success for baseball card sellers in Connecticut. Maintaining an organized, well-stored inventory positioned for regular replenishment keeps new stock visible. Specialization by player, team, sport, or era focuses product lines. Engaging with local card clubs, groups, pages exposes seller resources to the most relevant customers. Providing competitive prices, thorough condition grading, warranties, and prompt fulfillment keeps buyers satisfied and returning. With some combination of local, domestic and global sales channels, an enterprising baseball card merchant in Connecticut has tools available for steady deals and potential long-term livelihood.

The baseball card market has proven its staying power as a collectibles platform with engaged audiences statewide. As interest in memorabilia of iconic players, golden-era teams and historical events persists multi-generationally, so too will the opportunities for savvy merchants to be a useful conduit supplying passionate collectors. With proper startup research and commitment to excellent customer service, selling baseball cards can represent an engaging way for Connecticut residents to earn income and take part in local hobby commerce for years to come.