Tag Archives: sold

SOLD BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Selling Baseball Cards on eBay: A Comprehensive Guide

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible item for over a century. With the prevalence of online marketplaces like eBay, collectors now have an easy way to buy, sell, and trade cards from the comfort of their home. eBay remains one of the largest marketplaces for sports cards of all kinds, with thousands of new listings added daily. If you have a collection of baseball cards you’re looking to liquidate for extra cash, selling them on eBay can be a highly lucrative option – but it does require some strategy and knowledge to maximize your profits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to successfully sell baseball cards on eBay.

Photographing and Listing Your Cards

The first step to selling baseball cards on eBay is to inventory what you have and get high quality photos of each individual card or lot. Take the photos in a well-lit area against a plain white or black background for best clarity. Use a smartphone camera, point-and-shoot, or DSLR set to its highest resolution. Closely inspect each card under good lighting for any flaws, creases, or edge wear and note these clearly in the listing description.

When creating the listing, be sure to include 5-10 clear, cropped photos showing the front and back of each card. List rare, expensive singles individually and common cards or duplicates in logical lots. Include all relevant details such as the player, year, set, grade if applicable, and any flaws. Accurately describe the condition using standard card grading terms like Near Mint, Excellent, Good, Poor, etc. A well-written description leaves no questions unanswered for potential buyers.

Researching Prices and Grading Cards

Before listing your cards, do thorough research to determine fair starting prices. Check recently sold listings on eBay as well as online auction sites and sports memorabilia price guides to see what comparable cards in similar condition have sold for. Be competitive but don’t undervalue your items. You can potentially earn more by setting a higher starting price and letting buyers bid the price up through an auction.

For especially valuable vintage cards or those in top condition, consider sending them to a reputable third party grading service like PSA or BGS prior to sale. Professionally graded cards command a considerable premium and larger overall sales prices. The upfront grading costs are worthwhile for high end cards but not practical for common cards in lower grades. Do the math to determine if a specific card is grading-worthy based on its expected post-grade market value.

Shipping and Payment Details

Clearly state your shipping policies such as whether the handling cost is included in the price or an added charge. Most eBay sellers offer either calculated shipping rates based on the item weight or a fixed rate for First Class, Priority, or Express Mail options within the US. Require payment within 3-5 days of auction end or purchase and only accept payment through eBay/PayPal to ensure buyer protection on both sides. Promptly ship items once payment clears with tracking included.

Promoting and Managing Listings

To spread awareness, promote your new listings on forums, social media, collector groups, and via email newsletters if available. This can yield valuable early watchers and inquiries before the item listing expires. Refresh hot button cards like rare rookies or HOF player autos at regular intervals to keep them visible. Reach out to serious buyers who ask questions with additional photos or details. Provide excellent customer service. Positive feedback is key for building a trusted selling history and higher selling limits on eBay over time.

Shipping and Return Policies

Always carefully package cards in penny sleeves, toploaders or other approved protection before sealing in sturdy mailing materials like bubble mailers, envelopes, or boxes. Over-packing is never a bad idea. Consider requiring signature delivery for high value ($100+) packages for peace of mind on both ends. Clearly state “no returns accepted” in the listing since cards are considered “as-is” collectibles and any damage during transit is out of the seller’s hands. But offer refunds for significant inaccuracies in the item description itself.

Taxes and Fees

Keep eBay and PayPal insertion fees and final value fees in mind when pricing items. Both assess charges on the total sale amount. Be sure to collect sales tax if required in your state when applicable. Maintain thorough records of all sales, revenues, expenses, shipping costs for tax reporting purposes at year’s end to the IRS. Consult with a tax professional if needed for compliance based on total income from card sales in a given tax year.

Maintaining Strong Feedback

Focus on delivering an excellent buying experience through prompt communication, careful packaging and fast shipping. Respond to any buyer messages or inquiries thoughtfully and offer refunds or exchanges for truly faulty items as required. In all cases aim for positive buyer feedback once a transaction concludes to build seller ratings over time. This will increase trustworthiness and demand for future listings.

Patience and Persistence

Selling collectibles is a long game that may require months of consistent listing and re-listing efforts until the right buyers discover key items. Be diligent in photographing new acquisitions and adding them fresh to your profile monthly. Market conditions fluctuate and sets or players that weren’t moving one quarter could spike in values later on. With regular effort and time, your baseball card listings on eBay can turn into a steady side income over many selling cycles. Stay dedicated to provide the best possible service until cards find new appreciative homes.

By carefully following the guidance outlined above, collectors can maximize the ROI on their baseball card collections through strategic listings on eBay. With diligent photography, description-writing, pricing, promotions and customer service, selling cards online provides an efficient channel to capitalize on the enduring historical collectibles market. eBay establishes a seamless platform for buyers and sellers globally while protecting both parties through its safe payment and listing tools. With enough inventory and consistency, sports card sales through eBay present viable income potential for dedicated collectors or resellers alike.

VINTAGE BASEBALL CARDS SOLD

Leave a reply

Vintage baseball cards have grown exponentially in value and popularity over the past few decades. As one of the earliest forms of sports collectibles, old baseball cards are a connection to the history and nostalgia of America’s pastime. While condition and scarcity certainly contribute to value, the trading card market is unpredictable, with record sales prices often achieved without advance expectations. Some of the highest prices realized at auction in recent years showcase just how valuable a piece of cardboard history can become whencondition and significance align.

In April 2016, an unprecedented sale took place at SCP Auctions when a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner baseball card graded PSA Authentic 1 sold for $3.12 million, smashing the previous record high for any card. The iconic Wagner card dates back to the very earliest days of the modern trading card era and captures one of the most legendary figures in baseball history in his active playing days. With estimates ranging between $3-5 million prior to the auction, its final sale price set a new ceiling in the hobby. Part of its appeal was its superior autograph on the reverse, helping substantiate its authenticity and earn the highest possible grade from industry leader PSA. For over 100 years, the Wagner has symbolized the pinnacle of the sport and its collectibles.

Another seven-figure sale involved a 1909-11 T206 Joe Doyle card, which realized $649,000 at auction in December 2017. The Doyle may not carry the same ultra-rare appeal as the Wagner, but still represents an early tobacco issue in exceptional condition, graded NM-MT 8 by PSA. Its price reflected both the extreme scarcity at the highest grades as well as lingering popularity around the origin T206 set. Several other pre-war tobacco issues topped six-figures in sales during that year as well, anchored by demand from an enthusiastic group of high-end vintage card collectors seeking conditioned trophies from the game’s early decades.

In recent years, huge prices have been routinely achieved at auction for highlight cards from the post-war golden era of the 1950s as well. One of the most recognizable stars ever to play the game, Mickey Mantle memorabilia continues to captivate collectors globally. A 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card graded PSA Gem Mint 9 realized $2.88 million at Heritage Auctions in January 2018, demonstrating the New York Yankees legend’s perennial appeal and status as the most valuable modern-era card available. The result smashed the Mantle rookie record that was itself only set months prior.

Another legendary Yankee, Joe DiMaggio, also broke records with his 1951 Bowman card. In August 2017, a PSA Gem Mint 10 example sold for $649,000, marking the first post-war card to reach six figures. It reflected continued enthusiasm for impeccably preserved icons representing baseball’s Golden Age during its television genesis. Even decade later, a1957 Topps Hank Aaron rookie PSA 8 achieved $186,000 in October 2016, underscoring that first-year cards for all-time great sluggers rarely stay affordable for long.

Condition is king in the vintage trading card world, and no other set earns a sizeable premium for Gem Mint specimens quite like the iconic 1952 Topps set. Fresh on the heels of its popular 1951 inaugural issue, Topps distributed its ‘52s to drug stores and penny candies across America. With their novel illustrated player photography and affordable format, the cards were endlessly swapped and played with, leaving few truly pristine survivors today. At Legendary Auctions in January 2019, an unopened perfect gem mint box sold for $391,200, while a year prior in December 2017, a complete PSA/DNA SET in pristine Prism Slabs realized a then-record $144,000. The allure of finding investment-grade holders for this quintessential set shows no signs of abating.

Condition also buoyed an October 2016 sale of $87,500 for a 1960 Topps Ted Williams card graded PSA Mint 9. The “Splendid Splinter’s” artwork, legend and excellent state of preservation conspired to make it among the most expensive post-war cards to cross the auction block during that year’s Fall Classic week. Over at Heritage that same month, a 1961 Fleer Mickey Mantle short print PSA 8 sold for $42,000 due to its rare status within the expansive but sparsely distributed Fleer run. Short prints in favor of the games’ household names like Willie Mays and Mantle itself regularly command sizable five-figure sums when sharp enough to earn PSA 8 or above.

Turning back the clock further to the pre-war period, an April 2014 transaction marked one of the highest recorded totals in history for a T206 card not featuring Honus Wagner. A pristine 1912 M101-8 Nap Lajoie parallel issue and error graded PSA MT-68 DL sold at auction for $75,000. With a technical bidding glitch in the tobacco era and state of absolute perfection, this unique Lajoie checked many boxes for advanced collectors. Meanwhile, a January 2013 auction brought $360,000 for a T208 Pickett World Tour Ed Walsh featuring the legendary spitballer, representing one of the few six-figure sales achieved for any card outside of the T206s.

Beyond single cards, complete high-grade sets have also commanded impressive prices at the upper echelons. In January 2020, a 1948 Bowman Baseball Complete Set PSA 8 sold for $96,000, highlighting ongoing high values for the colorful, early postwar Bowman issues. Another full 1948 PSA 8 example realized $60,000 a couple years earlier at an August 2018 auction. With hundreds of cards across many different players and teams, finding a cohesive set with all elements preserved so nicely and certified authentic adds tremendous difficulty and rarity. Such success stories should encourage set builders aiming for the highest levels possible with their long-range collection goals.

As the vintage sports collectibles marketplace grows increasingly robust thanks to expanded hobby coverage and new waves of fans seeking classic pieces of history, price points for the rarest and most attractive cards may yet rise higher. Condition sensitive treasures from the formative early 1900s and classic postwar 1950s will likely remain blue-chip trophies. Mid-value fan favorites and team sets from many eras can still deliver affordable opportunities relative to the past. With an ever-widening fan demographic and long periods of demand yet to be satisfied, the potential seems high for broader collecting levels to lift many classic cards to new frontiers.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS SOLD NEAR ME

Leave a reply

Buying and selling baseball cards can be a fun hobby and collecting vintage Topps cards has grown hugely in popularity over the past few decades. Whether you are just starting out or expanding an existing collection, here are some tips for finding Topps baseball cards sold near you.

Card shops are still one of the best places to find baseball cards as they will have large stocks of inventory across many different sets and years. Look up “card shops near me” to find local stores. Call ahead to check their opening hours and ask about their Topps card selection as selection will vary based on the size of the shop. Many independent card shops have online stores too if you want to browse their stock before visiting.

It’s also worth checking local hobby shops that sell other collectibles like coins, stamps or comic books as they may have a baseball card section too. Flea markets are another place locals sell goods and are worth a look, especially on weekends. Vendors at flea markets will sometimes have boxes of unsorted cards for sale where you may find gems mixed in.

Don’t forget to check hobby shops at your local mall. While their baseball card selection tends to be smaller than indie shops, they stay open later hours so are convenient after work. Ask staff if the store buys cards as a purchase could fund your collecting. Mall shops also sometimes hold baseball card themed events around release dates.

If you have a card show coming to your area, it’s a must-attend event. Do an online search for “card shows near me” to find dates. These multi-dealer shows give you the opportunity to compare prices across dozens of vendors in one location. It’s the best place to find harder to find vintage and star rookie cards. Admission fees usually apply but are well worth it for collectors.

When searching online, always start local with sites like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist or local buy/sell groups on social media. Post your own wanted ad detailing the sets and years of Topps cards you are looking for. Be wary of meeting strangers from online so arrange to meet at a public place like a cafe. Condition is hard to judge online so inspect cards carefully if meeting in person.

When browsing ads yourself, request high quality photos of any expensive cards to scrutinize condition before agreeing to purchase. Ask for the seller’s return policy in case cards arrive damaged in post. Check feedback left by other buyers to ensure the seller is reputable. Popular peer-to-peer marketplace apps like OfferUp are also worth browsing to find locals selling vintage Topps lots nearby.

Garage sales and estate sales can be hit or miss but are worth attending locally advertised sales on weekends just in case the occupant is liquidating a card collection. Ask the homeowner if they have any vintage cards for sale or call ahead if the listing mentions sports memorabilia. Libraries near you may also hold silent auctions of donated collectibles that include baseball cards on occasion.

Don’t overlook donating some of your time too. Volunteer at your local library, community center or little league and get to know the organizers. Years down the line if they need to clear out their lost & found box or old program supplies, you may be able to look through for stray cards before they are discarded. Word of mouth within communities is also key – ask older relatives and acquaintances if they have any childhood baseball cards taking up space in the attic that they would part with.

It’s always worth expanding your search area too if you have transportation. Nearby cities and towns within an hour’s drive are likely to have card shops and shows you may have otherwise missed. The larger selection makes occasional day trips worthwhile. With some persistence browsing both in-person and online listings for sellers near you, you’re sure to expand your Topps baseball card collection. Best of luck in your hunting!

MOST EXPENSIVE BASEBALL CARDS SOLD ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have long been a beloved collectible for fans of America’s pastime. With cards dating back over 100 years, the hobby of collecting these small pieces of memorabilia has grown exponentially. As with any collectible market, the biggest tickets items tend to be the rarest and highest graded versions of legendary players. When it comes to baseball cards sold on the largest collectible marketplace, eBay, some truly astounding sums have been paid by enthusiasts looking to add a prized piece of history to their collection. Here are some of the most expensive baseball cards ever sold on eBay and the mind-boggling prices they fetched.

At the top of the list is undoubtedly the famous 1909-1911 T206 Honus Wagner card, considered the Mona Lisa of baseball cards due to its rarity and subject matter spotlighting the legendary Honus Wagner. Just about 60 of these highly coveted cards are even known to exist today in collectible condition. In 2016, one of these rare specimens received a PSA EX-MT 5 grading and ended up selling on eBay for an astounding $3.12 million, making it not only the most valuable baseball card ever sold but also one of the highest amounts paid for any trading card in history. While Wagner examples in lower grades have still earned millions, that $3.12 million price tag remains a record.

Another iconic early 20th century issue that has cracked the million-dollar threshold is the 1914 Baltimore News Babe Ruth card. Like the Wagner, fewer than 100 of these are estimated to exist in all conditions. In May 2015, one that received an SGC Authentic grade sold through an eBay auction for an incredible $1.26 million after 15 bids drove the final cost past the opening price of around $550,000. It set not only a benchmark figure for a Ruth card but any pre-WWII card. Those high 7-figure totals illustrate just how coveted birth-era examples of the game’s greatest early superstars truly are to dedicated collectors.

More recently from the post-war period, 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle cards have emerged as some of the priciest modern issues as well. As one of the most prolific set designers ever, Topps created the first modern generation of baseball cards in 1951-52 that ignited today’s multi-billion dollar collecting industry. Mantle rookie and early career cards hold legendary status as investments. In January 2016, a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA NM-MT 8 sold through eBay for $575,000, marking a new standard for that particular issue at the time. Just a couple years before, another PSA NM-MT 8 example had sold for over $405,000 on the site in 2014, showing the steady rise of coveted Topps Mickey Mantles even in high grades.

While the cards above broke into the 6 and even 7-figure realm, plenty of other postwar and modern rookie cards have topped $100,000 thresholds on eBay too as interest has grown. In 2013, a rare 1909 Eastern Coal Card featuring an image of Honus Wagner and inscribed on the reverse “The King of Baseball” managed to sell through the online marketplace for $196,000. June 2018 saw a 1957 Topps Hank Aaron rookie PSA EX-MT 5 sell through eBay for $189,989 in one of the highest publicized sales that year for the Hammer’s debut card. Vintage rookies for legends like Sandy Koufax from the 1950s have also cleared $100,000-150,000 depending on grade acquired through eBay auction forums.

Modern star cards don’t quite reach the heights above but have still earned impressive 5 and 6-figure valuations when pristine unused copies surface. In 2007, one of the rarest collectibles in the industry, a pristine 1975 O-Pee-Chee Wayne Gretzky rookie card graded PSA GEM-MT 10, sold for $106,000 through eBay. It stood as a record price that year for the Great One’s first mass-produced hockey card issue until eventually being bested later on. More recently in 2016, a rare 2009 Bowman Draft Prospects Mike Trout rookie card considered the pinnacle Trout collectible graded BGS 9.5 brought an incredible final sale price of $117,150 after 24 bids. Trout has emerged as one of the defining superstars of the modern generation so examples like that in top condition are highly prized. Other 2010s rookies like Bryce Harper and Kris Bryant can also potentially reach 5 figures in Mint or better condition through online bidding.

Moving to autograph cards, signed pieces by the games legends unsurprisingly command high costs as well. The gold standard remains any signed Honus Wagner card, one of which an incredibly rare T205 White Border example signed in bold signed sold on eBay in 2016 for nearly $2.1 million, marking the most ever paid for a baseball card with an inscription at auction. Other signed pieces seem comparatively more reasonable, such as a rare single-signed 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth card which achieved a final sale price of $138,000 through eBay bidding in 2012. Newer generational stars can also pull in 5 figures for autographs alone, such as a 2011 Topps Update Mike Trout autograph card which raked in $39,900 back in 2014. The opportunities to acquire genuinely historical autographs are slim, so prices tend to reflect that exclusivity.

While seven-figure sums dominate the headlines, bargains can still be had on occasion if more affordable alternatives suit a collector’s interests and budget instead of the most pristine condition rarities. As an example, a vintage 1955 Topps Stan Musial that graded PSA 2.5 sold online in a January 2016 eBay auction for just under $1,000. Or in December 2014, an autographed 2001 Topps Pedro Martinez rookie card in PSA/DNA GU 8 condition went for a final cost of $3,750, an accessible price point compared to signs pieces by the legends before him. With enough digging, collectors focused more on specific players than condition alone can potentially find affordable signed or used examples to build their collections even if seven-figure premiums are out of reach.

As interest has exploded for vintage sports memorabilia of all kinds, the prices realized through marketplace giants like eBay have risen substantially along with overall increased demand. For the true diamond in the rough rarities, particularly early 20th century tobacco or pre-war baseball cards featuring superstar players, seven figures may now represent the going rate as competitive bidding wars sometimes ensue. But more accessible bargains can still on occasion be had as well for dedicated collectors prioritizing certain players over highest grades alone depending on individual taste. After over a century of collecting culture, the market now reflects just how intertwined historical sports cards have become with our memories of the game’s greatest legends from baseball’s earliest days to contemporary stars.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS SOLD ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Some of the rarest and most coveted baseball cards in existence have sold for astronomical prices on eBay. While the overall collectible card market has experienced ups and downs over the decades, premium vintage cards from the mid-20th century seem to only increase in value as fewer high-grade specimens remain. Here we explore some of the baseball cards that have changed hands for over $100,000 on the popular online auction site.

Perhaps the most famous baseball card of all time is the 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner card. Produced during the dead ball era at the dawn of the 20th century, the Wagner is famously one of the rarest cards in existence due to American Tobacco Company founder Richard “Dick” Allen pulling Wagner’s likeness from production at his request. This scarcity has fueled massive interest in any high-grade Wagner example that hits the market. On eBay in October 2016, a PSA NM-MT 8 Wagner sold for an unprecedented $3.12 million, setting a new record for the most expensive baseball card or sports card auction price. Just a month earlier in September 2016, another PSA 8 Wagner sold for $1.32 million.

Other pre-war cardboard like the 1914 Cracker Jack Lefty Grove rookie card and the 1916 Sporting Life Babe Ruth rookie have also topped $100,000 on eBay. In January 2015, a PSA EX-MT 5 Grove sold for $189,422.50 while in August 2009 a PSA NM-MT 8 1916 Babe Ruth fetched an impressive $103,941. The 1916 Sporting Life is exceptionally rare, with perhaps fewer than 50 copies known to exist across all conditions. Ruth’s stature as arguably the greatest baseball player ever continues to drive interest in his early 20th century amateur cards as some of the rarest and most iconic in the hobby.

The post-war era was when baseball card production and collecting truly took off, but several 1950s cards stand out as true six and even seven figure rarities. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie is among the most coveted in the set; in October 2020 a PSA NM-MT 8 copy sold on eBay for a record-setting $5.2 million. Less than a month later, a PSA 6.5 copy of Mantle’s 1952 Topps rookie brought in $999,998. In April 2012, a PSA/DNA 8.5 Mantle rookie set the auction benchmark at $231,000. Similarly legendary status belongs to the 1959 Topps Sandy Koufax rookie card. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Koufax rookie in March 2022 achieved $900,000. Just two months prior, another PSA 10 sold for $731,000. Only about 50 PSA 10 Koufax rookies are known to exist.

The 1975 Topps Ragland refractor is considered perhaps the rarest production error in card history. Only a handful were ever printed with the refractive rainbow ink that makes them shimmer and pop unlike any other card from the 1970s. After years of obscurity, one surfaced on eBay in March 2014 and sold in less than 24 hours for $117,000. This was by far the highest price ever paid for any 1970s card at the time. It proved the Ragland error was a true seven-figure anomaly. Comparatively common cards can also break records in high grades. In January 2022, a PSA 10 1969 Topps Nolan Ryan rookie sold for $468,632 as demand continues to rise exponentially for pristine examples of iconic cardboard.

The premium card market has not been without controversy as well. In recent decades, unscrupulous dealers and counterfeiters have attempted to manipulate auction prices and introduce doctored cards into the ecosystem. Third-party grading has helped combat such problems while also fueling this new era of record-setting prices. With the most elite vintage material becoming increasingly scarce and high-grade specimens almost impossible to obtain, the cards chronicled here like the Wagner, Grove, Ruth and Mantle rookies seem likely to continue their ascent in value. For collectors and investors, these truly unique artifacts of baseball’s history have proven among the most sound long term investments in the collecting realm, appreciating exponentially over time as icons of the hobby. As long as baseball’s passionate fanbase fuels their popularity, the awe these remarkable cards inspire seems only to grow.

EBAY SOLD BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a popular collectible for decades, with some rare and vintage cards selling for massive sums on auction sites like eBay. The baseball card market can seem complex, but studying the trends of top-selling cards on eBay provides a lot of insight into what drives certain cards to be highly valuable.

One of the most important factors that determines a baseball card’s value is its age, with older vintage cards from the early 20th century being the most coveted. The oldest and rarest baseball cards that still exist date back to the late 1800s from the American Tobacco Company, with some of the most famous examples being the 1909-11 T206 set. Individual high-grade T206 cards in near-mint condition have sold for over $1 million on eBay.

Within the vintage era from the 1950s and back, the most iconic and valuable sets include the 1933 Goudey, 1952 Topps, and 1957 Topps sets. Single cards from these older issues regularly sell for five and six figures. For example, a mint condition 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card set a new record when it sold for $5.2 million on eBay in 2021.

Rookie cards, which are a player’s first licensed baseball card, also hold immense value if the player went on to have a successful career. Some of the highest selling rookie cards on eBay include the 2009 Bowman Draft Prospects Mike Trout card, which has sold for over $400,000. The 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card is the undisputed king, with PSA Gem Mint 10 examples changing hands for north of $2.8 million.

Autograph and memorabilia cards that feature swatches of game-worn jerseys or signed pieces of equipment also command huge prices. For example, a 1/1 Mike Trout autograph card from 2014 Topps Triple Threads sold for $396,000. A Babe Ruth signed baseball from the 1920s would sell for well over $1 million. As players establish legendary careers, virtually anything they sign or wore as a professional gains substantial value.

Condition is critical when determining the price of any baseball card. On eBay, most valuable sales involve examples that have been professionally graded by authentication companies like PSA or BGS. The coveted “black label” or PSA 10/BGS 10 gem mint grades bring the highest bids, often multiples higher than lower graded copies. Subtle flaws in the centering, corners, or surface can knock a card’s value down significantly.

Of course, star power plays a major role in the cards that break records. In addition to icons like Mantle, Trout, and Ruth frequently setting new standards, modern superstars like Ken Griffey Jr, Bryce Harper, and Fernando Tatis Jr have extremely valuable rookie cards. Their autographed memorabilia also gains value as their careers progress. Rookie cards for active MVP candidates like Shohei Ohtani are some of the hottest properties being traded on eBay right now.

Season, league, and career milestones are another catalyst that spikes eBay sale prices. For example, cards featuring a player’s 500th home run or 3,000th hit will appreciate greatly after the feat is accomplished. Parallel and short printed “hits” from modern sets like Topps Chrome, Bowman, and Topps Finest parallel also gain substantial value due to their rarity and desirability to high-end collectors.

While the very top cards are out of reach except for the deepest of pockets, there are still many affordable vintage and modern gems to be found on eBay if you know what to look for. Carefully researching recently sold listings by player, year, set, and condition is key to identifying undervalued cards before they take off. With a bit of savvy collecting strategy, anyone can build a meaningful baseball collection through the largest online marketplace.

Vintage age, star power, milestones, autographed memorabilia, and pristine condition drive the headline prices achieved by the most valuable baseball cards sold on eBay. But the diverse card market also presents opportunities at every budget level by studying sales data trends. With patience and knowledge, savvy collectors can profit by identifying rising young stars and undervalued gems to enjoy for years to come.

BASEBALL CARDS SOLD AT TARGET

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved collectible for over 150 years. Originally included as an advertisement insert in tobacco products in the late 1800s, baseball cards grew into a huge hobby and marketplace. For much of the 20th century, the primary way to obtain baseball cards was to purchase wax packs or boxes directly from the manufacturer. In the 1990s, mass retailers like Target began selling sports cards on a larger scale.

Target was founded in Minnesota in 1962 and quickly grew into a national chain. By the 1990s, Target had over 800 stores across the United States. Around this time, baseball card collecting was experiencing a boom in popularity fueled by the rise of expensive vintage cards. Many collectors from the 1970s and 80s were now adults with discretionary income to spend on their hobby. Seeing the opportunity, Target decided to start allocating shelf space to cards in their toy and collectible aisles.

One of the first card products sold regularly at Target stores were packs from the Fleer company. Fleer had regained the license to produce MLB cards in 1981 after Topps had dominated the market for decades. Fleer’s cards were seen as innovative with their use of color photography and oddball rookie cards. In the early 90s, Fleer produced sets like 1992 Stadium Club that are still coveted by collectors today. Target offered Fleer’s standard wax packs containing about 10-12 cards but also sold discounted “jumbo” packs with twice as many cards inside.

Another popular Target product in the 1990s was boxes from the Upper Deck company. Founded in 1988, Upper Deck shook up the card industry by signing exclusive deals with star players to put their autographs and memorabilia into packs. Their cards featured premium materials like metal and embossed foil. Target offered multi-pack boxes of the flagship “Series 1 and 2” Upper Deck sets which contained special “hits” that collectors eagerly searched for. Upper Deck boxes proved very profitable for Target and helped grow the popularity of high-end insert cards.

In addition to modern packs and boxes, Target also allocated shelf space to vintage repack products in the 1990s. Companies like Fleer, Score, and Donruss would repackage cards from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s into new themed sets without gum or wrappers. Target sold discounted “value packs” containing 30-50 vintage commons and uncommons that were perfect for young collectors just getting started. Repack boxes with rarer vintage cards offered a chance at finding expensive “keys” from the past.

As the decade progressed, Target expanded their baseball card selection even further. In the late 90s, they began carrying boxes from the innovative Score company known for oddball parallel and insert sets. They also offered packs from the retro-style Leaf brand trying to capture the nostalgia of the 1970s. In 1997, Target scored a huge coup by signing an exclusive deal with Playoff, a new card company launched by the former Topps management. Playoff’s innovative “Prime Cuts” and “Studio” sets were stocked abundantly at Target stores.

By the turn of the century, baseball card collecting had become a multi-billion dollar industry. Mass retailers like Walmart and Kmart joined Target in dedicating more shelf space to cards, supplies, and memorabilia. In the early 2000s, Target carried flagship releases from the dominant manufacturers like Topps, Upper Deck, and Fleer. They also offered exclusive “Target Red” parallel card sets only available in their stores. Target’s card selection expanded beyond just MLB to include sets for the NBA, NFL, and European soccer leagues as well.

The trading card aisle at Target stores became a destination for collectors both casual and diehard. While hobby shops specialized more in singles, relics, and autographs, big box retailers offered affordable access to the latest wax packs, boxes, and repacks. Target’s card selection helped onboard many new collectors and exposed the hobby to wider audiences. Their discounted multi-pack “value” items made the pursuit of collecting attainable for families. Even in today’s digital age, Target remains committed to stocking popular trading card releases and fueling the next generation of sports card fans.

TOP BASEBALL CARDS SOLD ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have long been a popular collectible, chronicling the history of America’s pastime. While some fans enjoy assembling full sets or starting their own collections, others view cards as lucrative investments that can appreciate significantly in value over time. Unsurprisingly, some of the most coveted and expensive cards ever produced have exchanged hands on the world’s largest online auction site – eBay. Here are some of the top baseball cards that have been sold through eBay auctions in recent years.

One of the all-time most expensive baseball cards is the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle PSA 8. This coveted rookie card of Yankee legend Mickey Mantle sold for an astounding $2.88 million on eBay in January 2021. The card received a PSA 8 grade, indicating excellent condition with slight wear. What makes this card so valuable is its rarity from the very first Topps baseball card set issued in 1952, at the height of Mantle’s playing career. He would go on to be considered one of the greatest switch hitters and all-around players in MLB history.

In second place is a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner baseball card that was purchased through eBay for $3.12 million in August 2016. The “Holy Grail” of baseball cards, the ultra-rare Wagner has a storied history attributed to its subject’s alleged reluctance to endorse tobacco products, leading to a very small original print run. This example sold received a PSA Authentic grade of EX-MT 8, indicating superb quality for a 100+ year old card. It became the highest price ever achieved for any sports memorabilia auctioned anywhere at the time.

A few other remarkably high eBay sales include a 1933 Goudey Babe Ruth card that went for $1.26 million in January 2020. In gem mint condition with a PSA MINT 9 grade, it set a new record as the costliest Goudey Ruth card. Another impressive sale was a 1998 SP Authentic (#138) Kobe Bryant rookie jersey card which achieved $861,140 in a bidding war in July 2021. This ultra-rare pull from a premium NBA product shot Bryant to stardom and is one of his most iconic rookie cards ever made.

The #1 pick of the 1987 MLB draft, a Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie card ungraded sold for $387,920 in June 2020. Widely considered one of the most visually appealing and well-known cards in the modern era, Griffey’s sweet swing and electrifying play made him a fan favorite. His Upper Deck rookie has long been the most expensive card from that coveted inaugural sports trading card set.

Many prized vintage cards have also changed hands for six-figure sums or more on eBay. A 1909-11 T206 Walter Johnson card graded PSA 1.5 pulled in $237,937 in February 2022. A rare 1914 Cracker Jack Honus Wagner graded PSA 2.5 was auctioned off for $156,000 in May 2018. And a 1910 E90-1 Joe Jackson card rated PSA 4.5 sold for $110,400 in April 2022. Each of these antiquated pieces of cardboard history provided invaluable glimpses into the early 20th century game.

Modern rookies have generated substantial eBay marketplace interest as well. A 2018 Bowman Chrome Ronald Acuña Jr. PSA 10 pop 1 gem mint rookie autograph shattered records bringing $350,100 from a December 2020 auction. A 2009 Bowman Chrome Mike Trout rookie jersey card Authentic Signatures #44 graded BGS 9.5 also commanded $227,277 this past May 2022. Both Acuña and Trout rapidly ascended to become new faces of baseball, and their impeccable rookie memorabilia reflect their future Hall of Fame caliber talents.

When it comes to vintage cards, condition is absolutely paramount in determining value. The rarest examples in pristine grades often sell for over six figures, sometimes well over, as collectors seek the finest quality representations of certain hallowed players from baseball’s early decades. For modern rookies, a balance of on-field production, card scarcity, and aesthetically pleasing design elements all factor into setting the market price on a card-by-card basis. As technology progresses and more money flows into collecting as an investment, the ceiling is raised continuously for the iconic pieces of paper chronicles stars of the national pastime. eBay stands at the forefront for facilitating these record-setting transactions among specialists seeking their Holy Grails.

BASEBALL CARDS SOLD AT WALMART

Leave a reply

Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for generations, allowing fans to collect pieces of the game they love. For many years, Walmart superstores have been a go-to destination for those looking to purchase baseball cards to add to their collections.

Walmart offers a wide variety of baseball card products at affordable prices. Some of the most popular and readily available baseball card options sold at Walmart include:

Topps Series 1, 2, and Update packs and boxes: Topps is the longest running and most iconic baseball card brand, having produced cards continuously since the 1950s. Their flagship Series 1 and 2 sets released each season contain the latest rookie cards and photos of current MLB players. Topps Update packs and boxes released mid-season feature rookie cards of players who debuted after the initial Series sets. At Walmart, these Topps products can usually be found for between $3-5 per pack or $20-30 per box.

Topps Heritage packs and boxes: Topps Heritage pays homage to the design aesthetics of vintage baseball cards from the 1950s-1970s. Each year it contains reprints of the biggest stars from that season. Heritage is a favorite among collectors seeking a retro look and feel. At Walmart, Heritage packs sell for around $4 each, with boxes of 12 packs priced at $25-30.

Topps Chrome packs and boxes: Topps Chrome features the same current player photos and designs as the standard Topps issues but with a shiny “chrome” coating on the front of the cards. Many collectors enjoy the reflective look of Chrome cards. Individual packs are around $5 each at Walmart, with boxes holding 10 packs priced at $25-30.

Topps Big League packs: A more affordable option containing current MLB players, rookies, and stars. Big League packs sell for $1-2 each at Walmart, making them a budget-friendly way to build sets or search for rookie stars on a tighter budget.

Donruss packs and boxes: Donruss is one of the leading competitors to Topps. Like Topps, they release Series 1 and 2 each year plus an Update set midseason. Donruss packs and boxes can be found for similar prices to Topps products at Walmart.

Stadium Club packs and boxes: Stadium Club is a premium Topps brand known for its sharp photography and glossy foil treatments on some cards. Individual packs run $5-7 each at Walmart, with boxes holding 10 packs priced $30-40.

Allen & Ginter packs: A quirky non-sport release from Topps featuring a mix of MLB players alongside historical figures, artists, and more. It has become a cult-favorite among collectors in recent years. A&G packs sell for around $5 each at Walmart.

Vintage packs and boxes: Walmart often stocks repackaged boxes and packs containing assorted vintage cards from the 1980s and earlier. These can be hit-or-miss in terms of value but offer a fun nostalgia trip. Prices range from $10-30 per box or pack depending on the included years.

Value packs: Various 3-5 card value packs featuring current stars or themes like rookies. These sell for $1-3 each at Walmart and provide an inexpensive way to build partial sets.

Beyond packs and boxes, Walmart also carries baseball card supplies like toploaders, magnetic holders, binders and pages to safely store collections. Their toy aisles usually stock various trading card games based on MLB licenses from companies like Upper Deck.

For collectors on a budget, Walmart is a go-to destination thanks to their consistently low prices on new baseball card releases. While local card shops may offer better selection and older vintage items, Walmart ensures the latest packs, boxes and supplies from Topps, Donruss and more are affordable and widely available. Their stores in most cities provide a convenient one-stop shop for building or supplementing baseball card collections.

Whether seeking the next rookie star, chasing down needed commons and uncommons to complete sets, or just looking to relive memories of ripping packs as a kid, Walmart ensures the baseball card hobby remains an accessible one. Generations of collectors have fueled their passion at Walmart, and their stock of new issues and classic repackaged items keeps the tradition going strong.

SHIPPING BASEBALL CARDS SOLD ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Selling baseball cards on eBay is a popular way for collectors to buy and sell cards. Whether you have a large collection you want to liquidate individually or you’re looking to bolster your collection by buying singles, shipping cards properly is essential to ensuring they arrive safely in the hands of your buyer or you as the buyer receive the cards as described by the seller. With the right packaging and shipping method, you can give both yourself and your transaction partner peace of mind.

The most important aspect of shipping cards is using the proper protective packaging materials. Never send cards in a plain envelope even for a simple PWE (plain white envelope) shipment. Cards should always be enclosed in a semi-rigid sleeve or toploader to prevent bending or other damage. For larger shipments, additional layers of protection like cardboard and bubble wrap are necessary. Toploaders on their own do not provide enough structure and rigidity to protect cards during transit if more than a few are being shipped together.

When packaging cards for shipping, carefully slide each one into its own toploader for protection. For bulk shipments, you can group toploaded cards together in cardboard boxes or rigid photo storage sheets with layers of comics bags or paper between each layer for separation. Surround enclosed cards with at least an inch of bubble wrap or packing peanuts/air pillows on all sides before closing and sealing the shipping box. Proper packaging adds a layer of security for the cards so they don’t shift or rub against each other during the journey.

Opt for a sturdier box appropriate for the value and quantity of cards being shipped. Do not reuse flimsy retail shipping boxes which are not made to withstand transport. New corrugated cardboard boxes suit shipping needs well and are often free from a moving supply store or shipping center. Seal all boxes securely with clear packing tape around all seams to prevent curious fingers from opening during transit.

When it comes to shipping methods, the Postal Service offers affordable options that are generally the best choice for baseball cards due to insurance coverage and tracking capabilities included. For a simple PWE, First Class Mail envelope or package service suffices for 1-3 cards valued under $20 total with tracking. For riskier shipments without tracking or higher value cards, upgrade to a box shipped via Priority Mail which has $50-$100 of free insurance included depending on postage paid.

Packing slips are handy for both you and the buyer to have enclosed detailing the contents, value and your return addresses clearly written. Be sure to purchase shipping with delivery confirmation tracking numbers. Tracking not only lets the sender know when the package arrived but also provides proof of delivery in the event of any issues later on. Insuring shipments protects the card value up to the insured amount if the package is lost or damaged in transit.

When selling on eBay, be aware of the platform’s policies which specify card quantities and values able to ship via different methods. List shipping cost accurately based on your chosen carrier and package the cards professionally before dropping off at the Post Office. Communicate with buyers regarding the shipment process and include your tracking number once it’s on its way. Prompt shipping after payment clears and good customer service will help establish you as a reputable trading partner on eBay and create a positive buying or selling experience for everyone.

In today’s marketplace where many card deals are done remotely without inspecting goods in person, trust in shipping is crucial. Building that trust starts with packaging cards securely and chooses shipping options that safely transport the hobby items from one collector to another as described. Taking the time and initiative to pack cards correctly and communicate transparently engenders goodwill and reassures all transaction participants their cards and money are protected throughout transit.