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ROOKIE BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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Baseball cards have been a popular collecting hobby for decades. While some common cards don’t hold much value, certain rookie cards can be quite valuable – especially older cards from the early 20th century. Rookie cards are particularly sought after since they commemorate a player’s first appearance in the major leagues. Here are some examples of rookie baseball cards that are worth money today if in good condition:

Honus Wagner (1909 T206) – Widely considered the most valuable baseball card ever printed, the T206 Honus Wagner is legendary in the hobby. Produced by American Tobacco Company between 1909-1911, it’s estimated fewer than 60 examples exist today in authentic and gradeable condition. In 2021, a PSA EX-MT 5 sold for a record $6.6 million, showing the card still appreciates strongly. Other high grades have sold for well over $1 million.

Babe Ruth (1914 Baltimore News) – One of the earliest known rookie cards of the legendary Bambino. Only about 50 are known to exist in all conditions. In January 2022, a PSA 3.5 graded example sold for $996,000, showing solid ongoing value even in lower grades for this historic piece of memorabilia. A high grade example could potentially surpass $1 million.

Joe DiMaggio (1936 R306) – Produced during DiMaggio’s rookie season of 1936 which he helped the New York Yankees win the World Series. Around 80 are believed extant in all conditions. A PSA 5 recently sold for $405,000 in 2022, while a PSA 8 could bring over $750,000. Represents one of the most iconic Yankee players.

Mickey Mantle (1951 Bowman) – Heralded as one of the most aesthetically pleasing and instantly recognizable vintage baseball cards. Around 300 PSA graded examples exist, with a PSA 8 selling for over $432,000 in early 2022. High grade PSA 9s have topped $2 million before. Captures Mantle at the start of his Hall of Fame career.

Sandy Koufax (1955 Bowman) – Pictures Koufax during his rookie season where he had a breakout year and won Rookie of the Year award. Only around 50-100 are believed to exist in all grades. A high quality PSA 8 recently brought $261,600 at auction. Among the scarcest of all vintage rookie baseball cards.

Willie Mays (1951 Bowman) – Iconic photo of Mays during his early Giants career. Around 300 PSA graded examples are known. A PSA 9 example sold for nearly $607,000 in March 2022, showing strong ongoing demand for one of the sport’s all-time great players.

Nolan Ryan (1966 Topps) – Features Ryan during his rookie season with the New York Mets. Around 380 PSA graded versions are accounted for. A high quality PSA 8 copy sold for $117,000 in early 2022. Known as one of the hardest throwers in baseball history, his cards retain solid interest.

Mike Piazza (1990 Excalibur ProDebut) – One of the rarest and most valuable modern era rookie cards. Only about a dozen are known in PSA 10 mint condition. One sold for over $93,000 in 2022. Captures Piazza before his breakout seasons with the Dodgers and Mets elevated him to Hall of Fame status. Limited population makes pristine examples highly sought.

Butch Huskey (1980 Topps Traded) – Considered one of the scarcest traded/update issue cards ever produced. Only 5 thought to exist in PSA 10 condition. Sold for $37,200 in early 2022 despite Huskey having a short, uneventful MLB career. Extensive scarceness drives the value.

Andrew Benintendi (2015 Bowman Chrome) – One of the most collectible modern rookies from the highly desirable Bowman Chrome set. Benintendi was a consensus top prospect and rookie of the year candidate. PSA 10 copies trade in the $3,000-$5,000 range currently which is high for a recent player card.

Robinson Cano (2001 Bowman Chrome) – Marquee rookie from the Bowman Chrome set featuring Cano in uniform as a Seattle Mariners prospect. PSA 10s regularly change hands for $2,000-$3,500 due to Cano’s Hall of Fame caliber career and being early 2000s Bowman Chrome issue.

Those represent some top examples of baseball rookie cards that can be worth substantial money today, especially when graded and preserved in high quality condition. As is typical with collectibles, the oldest cards from the earliest production years tend to hold and appreciate the most value long term. But newer rookies from sought after sets like Bowman Chrome also retain significance for current stars. With more than a century of the hobby’s history to draw from, rare vintage rookie cards of all-time great players continue being prized trophies for well-heeled collectors. Just taking proper care to protect these fragile pieces of sports history can yield potentially huge future rewards.

PAWN SHOP THAT BUYS BASEBALL CARDS

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Pawn shops can be a good option for selling your baseball card collections when you’re looking to raise some quick cash. While pawn shops may not offer top dollar for rare and valuable cards, they provide a convenient solution for offloading common cards and larger bulk collections. Here are some key things to know about selling baseball cards to pawn shops.

Background on Pawn Shops

Pawn shops have operated for centuries as a way for people to quickly access cash by using valuable possessions as collateral for a loan. The basic model involves customers bringing in items to sell or pawn in exchange for a loan. If the loan is repaid by a specified date plus interest, the item is returned to the owner. If not, the pawn shop keeps the item and can then resell it to earn a profit.

While primarily known for purchasing electronics, jewelry, musical instruments and tools, many pawn shops today also buy sports collectibles like baseball cards. This provides collectors a fast alternative to mailing cards to online buyers or trying to sell individually on eBay. It’s also useful when someone has accumulated numerous common cards or sets over the years and simply wants to clear out space.

Factors That Impact Pawn Shop Card Prices

When determining a buy price for baseball cards, pawn shops consider several factors beyond just the stated Beckett/EBay values:

Condition: Heavily played, damaged or worn cards will fetch a much lower price than near mint copies. Pawn shops aim to resell, so condition is important.

Grading: Unless cards are clearly in excellent shape, pawn shops won’t take the time to have each graded. They’ll opt for quick visual assessments only.

Rarity: Common/basic cards from mainstream sets draw little interest and offer tiny profits on resale. Rarer (rookies, Hall of Famers) get relatively higher buy prices.

Set Value: Complete vintage/retro sets in good condition can net a bonus compared to loose cards. Pawn shops appreciate collection consolidation value.

Volume: Larger collections containing thousands of duplicates help offset the time needed to sort. Bringing in bulk cards helps pawn shops maximize profit opportunities.

Current Trends: Hot players/years that collectors covet most drive stronger secondary card market demand. Pawn shops pay up more for what they believe can flip quickly.

Best Cards and Strategies for Pawn Shop Sales

With an understanding of the factors above, here are some tips for getting the most cash from pawn shops for baseball cards:

Focus on rookies of star players from the 1980s-early 2000s. Rookie cards from Mike Trout, Ken Griffey Jr. and others do well.

Complete sets from the 1960s-80s in great shape are prime candidates due to collectible appeal. Fleer/Topps/Donruss flagship sets especially.

Graded vintage/retro singles in Gem Mint can push pawn shop prices up compared to ungraded cousins, though slabs add complexity.

Sort through bulk for any valuable older refractors, parallels, autographed or memorabilia cards to negotiate individually as premium items.

Consider breaking complete long-term collections into batches by decade to spread visits and cash potential over multiple trips if maximizing return.

Be straightforward about condition issues like stains, creases etc. to avoid value disputes down the road for merchandise they resell.

Have realistic expectations that you’ll get 20-50% of current online market value on average depending on demand factors. Speed/convenience have price costs.

If not satisfied with initial offers, be polite but firm and see if bargaining gets you a few dollars more per thousand cards to sweeten the pot.

Selling to Multiple Pawn Shops

Given the variability between pawn shops and how baseball cards trends ebb and flow, it’s often worthwhile to get competing offers from multiple local shops before settling on a deal. Prices can differ by 10-20% depending on current stock/sales cycles. You may also find more niche vintage shops offer premium pricing for high-end collectibles compared to general pawn operations.

While pawn shops will always fall short of maximum potential profits an individual could squeeze from patient online consignments, they provide an undeniably speedy option for cashing in sports card equity when needed most. With patience and smart strategies, collectors can make the pawn shop experience a worthwhile solution in many circumstances.

Pawn shops are a handy marketplace for offloading common baseball cards and batch collections. A little research helps maximize returns by targeting in-demand products and eras. Going to multiple competitors also secures the best possible price under quick sale conditions common to pawn shops. With strategic car choices and upfront presentations, collectors can get solid value for their baseball cards in this venue.

COMPANIES THAT GRADE BASEBALL CARDS

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There are several major companies that professionally grade the condition and quality of baseball cards. Receiving a third-party grading from one of these established companies helps collectors accurately determine a card’s condition and authenticity. This grading process is an important part of the baseball card industry, especially for high-value cards.

Perhaps the largest and most well-known company is Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA). Founded in 2000, PSA pioneered the modern sports card grading industry. They have graded over 30 million cards to date and set the standard for consistent and reliable grading practices. PSA uses a numeric 1-10 scale to grade cards based on their centering, corners, edges and surface quality. Cards that receive a PSA Gem Mint 10 grade are considered to be in pristine, flawless condition. These high-grade PSA 10 cards often sell for significant premiums at auction.

In addition to condition grading, PSA also authenticates signatures and memorabilia to ensure collectors are receiving legitimate items. They have a staff of experienced graders and stringent quality control procedures. PSA slabs protect the cards and include identifying holograms and serial numbers to deter counterfeiting. Overall, PSA grading has become the most recognized certification in the hobby due to their expertise, reputation and market share. Their turnaround times and fees are often higher compared to competitors.

Another major player is Beckett Grading Services (BGS). Founded in 1992, BGS is considered the oldest third-party card grading service. They pioneered the use of plastic slabbing to protect and display cards. Like PSA, BGS uses a 1-10 numeric scale to grade card condition. BGS has certified over 15 million collectibles to date. Their grading is known for being very consistent and their slabs are highly regarded in the market. BGS also publishes Beckett Monthly magazine and price guides that are an important industry standard. Some collectors complain that BGS can be overly critical in their grading compared to other services.

SGC (Sportscard Guarantee Corporation) was launched in 2000 and has grown significantly in the past decade. SGC offers lower grading fees compared to PSA and BGS, making them appealing for budget-conscious collectors. Their turnaround times tend to be faster as well. SGC uses a similar 1-10 grading scale and also slabs and authenticates cards. They have graded over 5 million cards and built a solid reputation for integrity. Some collectors and dealers argue that SGC slabs have not reached the same market acceptance as PSA or BGS yet due to their younger age in the industry.

HGA (Hierarchy Grading Accessible) is a relative newcomer, starting in 2018. They have developed a loyal following among collectors seeking an alternative to the “Big 3” grading companies. HGA offers competitive pricing and fast turnaround times. Their slabbing protects cards well and includes security features. HGA has also innovated by offering different label customization options. While still small compared to the major competitors, HGA has graded over 500,000 collectibles in just a few years, showing strong growth potential. Some concerns remain around long-term market acceptance and quality control as they scale up operations.

In addition to the “Big 4” grading companies, there are some smaller regional or specialized outfits. Such as CSG (Certified Sports Guarantee) which focuses more on vintage cards from the 1950s-1970s era. Or JSA (James Spence Authentication) which provides authentication services for autographed memorabilia. Collectors also have the option of using independent, third-party authenticators for one-off rare cards rather than bulk submissions. The grading industry provides a valuable service for determining condition, history and value—especially for the most prized vintage and modern rookie cards.

The process of submitting cards to these companies usually involves paying a fee per-card graded. Fees vary depending on the company and turnaround options selected. Basic bulk submissions start around $10-15 per card for economy 30-day grading. Expedited 7-day grading costs $20-30 per card usually. “Express” same-day or next day service can reach $50-100+ per card. “Green” or economy submissions are sent in bulk to save on shipping costs. “Blue” submissions are for higher-end vintage cards graded individually. Authentication and special labeling also incur added costs. Collectors must weigh the fees, turnaround times and reputation of each company for their needs.

After grading, the cards are slabbed in tamper-evident plastic holders that clearly display the assigned grade. Higher grades like PSA/BGS 10 can increase a card’s value exponentially compared to lower grades. But grading is not a guarantee—cards can sometimes receive unexpectedly low grades. Collectors must carefully research population reports, understand each company’s standards and accept some risk that a card may grade poorly. Third-party grading brings uniformity, trust and liquidity to the baseball card marketplace. It allows collectors to accurately value their collections and trade high-end cards with confidence.

Companies like PSA, BGS, SGC and HGA play an essential role in the collectibles industry by professionally grading cards and authenticating memorabilia. Their consistent standards, slabbing services and market acceptance benefits collectors, dealers and auction houses. While fees and turnaround times vary, these established grading outfits provide a credible certification process that brings uniformity, trust and transparency to the sports card marketplace. Their expert authentication helps ensure only real vintage and modern cards are exchanged between collectors and sold to the public.

PLACES THAT BUY BASEBALL CARDS NEAR ME

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If you have a collection of baseball cards that you’re looking to sell, one of the best places to start is by finding local shops that buy cards near your location. Having physical stores that you can take your cards to allows you to get cash offers right away rather than waiting to sell cards individually online. It can sometimes be tricky figuring out which local shops actually purchase cards versus only selling new packs and boxes. Here is an in-depth look at some of the best places to sell your baseball cards if you want a brick-and-mortar option near you.

Sports Card and Memorabilia Shops

The most obvious first place to check is any local shops that specifically deal in trading cards and other sports memorabilia. These stores are usually a baseball card collector’s paradise, stocked with new and vintage cards, autographed memorabilia, and more. They also offer the ability to buy collections from sellers. The upside is you can get an instant cash offer after having the shop owner look through your cards to assess condition and identify any valuable rookie cards, autographs, or rare vintage issues. These types of specialty card shops have become less common in recent decades as the hobby has declined, so they may not be in every local town. But they’re definitely worth a call or visit if one exists near you.

Comic Book and Toy Stores

Another place to consider looking is your local comic book store or toy store that also sells trading cards. Many of these shops branch out beyond just comics and have expanded into areas like Magic: The Gathering cards, Pokémon cards, and sports cards as well. While they may not focus primarily on cards the way a dedicated sports memorabilia store would, they still often purchase collections from customers. Stop in and ask if the shop is interested in buying baseball card collections. Be prepared to have your cards assessed quickly on the spot though, as these stores usually don’t have the extensive card knowledge of a specialized memorabilia business. But it’s still worth a try if no other local options exist.

Game Stores

Game shops are an increasingly common place to look nowadays too. From board game cafes to stores specializing in tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, many carry trading card inventory as a side business. Games Workshop, the company behind Warhammer, also deals heavily in collectible miniatures and cards used for the games. These stores are worth a visit to see if they take baseball cards as trades or purchases from customers. You may find a knowledgeable owner who appreciates the cardboard just like any dedicated card collector. And it expands your local search beyond just the obvious sports memorabilia spots.

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops can serve as great alternative locations for selling your baseball card collection when no other local specialized stores are available. While pawn shops focus more on buying general used items than cards specifically, they do purchase various collectibles and are attempting to turn a profit by reselling what they buy. Some may even have a box of traded cards already for sale. Bring your cards in sealed in toploaders or sleeves with the collection clearly marked and organized. Pawn shops will do a fast appraisal and make a cash offer likely below dedicated card shop prices. But it’s better than nothing if all other options have fallen through. Just be prepared for their take on condition and values to be more lenient than aCollector-oriented business.

Card Shows and Conventions

If a major card show is coming to your local area, that’s another excellent opportunity to potentially sell your baseball cards en masse. These organized conventions bring together dealers from all over to buy, sell, and trade with collectors. Admission usually provides entry to the entire event where you can carry your collection on tables between booths to get offers. Experienced dealers will be able to rapidly evaluate a binder or box in front of you. The advantage is dealing with knowledgeable professionals who know the market well. But be warned pricing may be lower since dealers are looking to immediately resell for a profit. Come prepared with fair expectations and be ready to negotiate in this format designed for quick transactions.

Online Selling through Reputable Websites

While not exactly local brick-and-mortar options, you can also sell your entire baseball card collection online through reputable third-party platforms for collector sales. Sites like eBay and COMC (Collectors Universe) specialize in card transactions through their structured auction and “group sales” interfaces respectively. The obvious convenience is selling remotely from home, allowing a wider customer reach beyond your local area. But it does require more work on your part to pick out valuable individual cards, research estimated values, create thorough listings with scans/photos, and ship out orders. Payouts also take longer than instant cash offers. Still, these trusted online sites are excellent for broadening sales efforts once you’ve exhausted local brick-and-mortar shops.

A great place to start selling your baseball card collection is by calling local sports memorabilia stores, comic shops, pawn shops, game stores, or attending card shows within driving distance to get in-person cash offers. Exhaust those physical options first before moving sales online to wide-reaching sites. With some perseverance searching your surrounding area, you should be able to find a suitable local shop that’s more than happy to look through your cards and give you a quote. Just be prepared to have the entire collection quickly assessed all at once rather than selling each card separately.

1970’s BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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The 1970s was an iconic decade for baseball cards. Stars like Nolan Ryan, Johnny Bench, Reggie Jackson and many more were entering their primes and gaining widespread popularity. As a result, their rookie cards and earlier career cards from the 1970s can be quite valuable today for collectors. While the condition and grade of a card plays a big role in its worth, here are some of the most desirable and financially significant baseball cards from the 1970s:

1973 Topps Nolan Ryan Rookie Card – Ryan’s iconic rookie card from his second season in the majors in 1973 with the California Angels is one of the most sought after cards of all time. In near mint to mint condition, examples regularly sell for $20,000 or more. Even in well-worn condition a 1973 Topps Nolan Ryan can still fetch over $1,000. What makes it so desirable is that Ryan went on to have one of the greatest pitching careers ever and was a true legend of the game by the time he retired. Not many other rookie cards can match the history and prestige associated with Nolan Ryan’s.

1975 ToppsReggie Jackson – Known by his nickname “Mr. October”, Reggie Jackson entered Major League Baseball folklore with his legendary home run heroics for the New York Yankees in the 1977 World Series. His formidable rookie season was in 1968 but his earliest notable card is his 1975 Topps issue from his playing days with the Baltimore Orioles. High graded versions in mint condition can sell for $4,000-$6,000. Even well-centered but worn copies still trade hands for $500-1000 routinely.

1972 Topps Johnny Bench – Widely considered the best defensive catcher of all-time, Johnny Bench was a 12-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP for the Cincinnati Reds. His iconic ’72 Topps rookie card was issued during his breakout first full season where he blasted 38 home runs and drove in 129 RBIs. Pristine examples with a grade of Mint 9 or Above can earn over $10,000. Near mint to excellent conditioned versions are valued around $3,000-$5,000 still.

1976 Topps Mike Schmidt – ‘The Hammer’ enjoyed one of the greatest careers by a third baseman in baseball history with the Philadelphia Phillies. His rookie season in the majors was in 1972 but his true breakthrough year was in 1976 where he launched 38 homers and won the National League MVP award. Near mint to mint conditioned ’76 Topps Schmidt rookie cards sell in the $3,000-$4,000 range today.

1974 Topps George Brett – Considered the greatest third baseman in Kansas City Royals franchise history, George Brett had a 24-year career filled with accolades in the majors. His rookie card issued by Topps in 1974 from his debut season captures him in his early Kansas City days. High graded versions with a PSA/BGS grade of 9 or 10 can sell for upwards of $5,000. Even well-centered examples in Excellent to Near Mint condition still hold value of $1,000-$2,000.

1971 Topps Thurman Munson – As the heart and soul of some of the great New York Yankees teams in the 1970s, Thurman Munson was a tough, competitive catcher who led by example. His 1971 Topps card from his first full season starting is one of the more scarce early issue Yankees cards. Pristine Mint 9’s can sell in the $2,000 range with Near Mint 8’s going for $1,000-1500. He tragically passed away in 1979 at the young age of 32, adding to the historical significance of his early career cards.

1974 Topps Hank Aaron – In 1974 Hank Aaron had just broken Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record and was in the latter stages of his Hall of Fame career with the Atlanta Braves. Topps captured his milestone moment with a memorable action photo on his ’74 card. High graded Mint and Gem Mint examples can earn over $3,000 today. Even well-centered near mint copies are valued around $500-1000 for collectors looking to own a piece of sports history.

1977 Topps Steve Garvey – As the smooth-swinging first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers dynasty of the 1970s-early 80s, Steve Garvey was a perennial All-Star and won the 1974 National League MVP award. His 1977 Topps card shows him in the prime of his successful career. Pristine GEM MT 10’s can earn $500-1000 while Near Mint to Mint specimens are valued closer to $200-500 range. It’s an iconic Dodgers card from that golden era.

1978 Topps Ron Guidry – ‘Louisiana Lightning’ had a breakout 1977 season winning the American League Cy Young award with New York Yankees. Topps duly featured him prominently in their 1978 set during his superstar campaign. Pristine high graded examples have sold for $600-800. Even well-centered near mint copies possess value of $200-400 for 70s Yankees fans.

While condition is critical, seasoned collectors understand that premium vintage cards like these from stars’ early careers in the 1970s offer an historical and nostalgic connection to some of baseball’s most legendary players that transcends their dollar value alone. With the decades of appreciation since their original issue, investors speculate they may continue rising much like the larger-than-life players featured forever immortalized them decades ago on cardboard.

1987 BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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The 1987 baseball card set holds quite a few gems that can be worth significant money depending on the player, card number, and condition. The 1980s were the golden era of baseball cards when production numbers were high but interest and demand remained strong. Let’s take a look at some of the top 1987 baseball cards that old-time collectors are seeking out and are still bringing hefty prices at auction today over 30 years later.

One of the most coveted and valuable 1987 cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was one of the most hyped young prospects to enter Major League Baseball in decades and “The Kid” lived up to expectations with a stellar career. His rookie card from the 1987 Topps set is the true Holy Grail card from that year. In near-mint to mint condition, Griffey rookie cards have sold for over $400 at auction. Higher graded versions in the PSA 9-10 range can sell for thousands of dollars. Even well-worn copies still fetch over $100 due to enduring interest in Griffey’s rookie season.

Another highly sought after rookie card is Mark McGwire from the 1987 Topps set. Like Griffey, McGwire’s raw power potential was apparent from an early age and he went on to smash the single-season home run record. PSA 9-10 graded versions of his rookie sell in the $400-600 range. Even lower graded copies still sell for $100-300 depending on condition details. McGwire is forever etched in baseball history and collectors are still eager to add his rookie to their collections.

While not rookies, some veteran star cards from 1987 hold immense value as well. One of those is the Frank Thomas rookie star card from 1987 Topps. Thomas would not officially debut until 1990 but he was already making waves in the minors in 1987. His rookie star card sells for around $200-300 in top condition. Another veteran pickup is the Nolan Ryan card from 1987 Topps. Ryan was already a living legend by 1987 after piling up milestones but collectors still love his cards from the era. A PSA 9 Nolan Ryan fetches around $150-200.

Moving over to 1987 Donruss set, the main rookie draws are Ben McDonald and Barry Larkin. McDonald was a highly-touted Orioles pitching prospect who showed promise during his career. A PSA 10 McDonald rookie recently sold for $400. Larkin on the other hand became a future Hall of Famer and his impeccable skill was on display from the start. High-graded Larkin rookies sell consistently in the $300-500 range. Another star performer was Bo Jackson, who was already making waves in football too before his short but electric MLB career. A PSA 10 Bo Jackson rookie from 1987 Donruss sold for $625 in early 2021.

Condition is king when it comes to maximizing the value of any card from the 1980s era. Yet even in lower grades, certain star players from 1987 still command prices well above the average due to enduring popularity. For example, a PSA 5 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie recently sold for $240 while a PSA 5 Mark McGwire went for $130. Of course, mid-range graded versions in the PSA 6-8 range sell proportionately higher, usually landing in the $150-300 range depending on card centering, corners and edges.

The 1987 Topps Traded set also has a few gems including rookie cards. One is the PSA 10 graded version of Ellis Burks rookie that is routinely worth $150-200. Even lesser condition Burks rookies sell for over $75. Another rising star was Lenny Dykstra who became a fan favorite during his career. His 1987 Topps Traded rookie in PSA 10 grade has sold for as much as $350 in recent auctions. The set also featured rookie call-ups for Ruben Sierra ($100 PSA 10), Devon White ($150 PSA 10) and Scott Cooper who wasn’t a star but the card still holds value in top grades.

Overall condition is extremely important when considering the values from over 30 years ago. PSA and BGS slabs with grades of 9-10 exponentially increase worth but even lesser grades retain appeal and value due to the star power of certain players. Storage matters too as cards kept in attics and basements tend to show more wear over time versus those placed carefully in binders. But regardless of condition details, securing a Griffey, McGwire, Bo Jackson or an underrated star like Ellis Burks rookie still proves a worthwhile addition to any collection from the bountiful 1987 card year. Prices remain high and interest stays strong for these ’80s cardboard icons.

The 1987 baseball card season has provided collectors with many valuable and sought after pieces of cardboard over the decades. Rookie sensations like Ken Griffey Jr. and Mark McGwire obviously top the chart due to their all-time careers. But others like Bo Jackson and Ellis Burks also hold lasting appeal. Factor in star veterans and comeback players too which add notable value depending on grading scale. Condition is critical but even well-loved, worn copies still retain monetary worth. For nostalgia and investment purposes, prominent 1987 rookies and stars deserve a home in any vintage collection.

APPS THAT SCAN BASEBALL CARDS

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby and collectible for generations. With the rise of mobile technology, scanning baseball cards with apps has become a popular way for collectors to digitally organize and value their collections. Several apps have been developed specifically for scanning and storing information about baseball cards. These apps allow users to easily catalog their collections, look up card values, and in some cases connect with other collectors.

One of the most popular and full-featured scanning apps is Collector’s Armory. This app is available for both iOS and Android devices. With Collector’s Armory, users can scan the barcode or manually enter details of each card into a digital collection. The app automatically looks up details like the player, team, year, and set to populate the record. It also provides a real-time market value lookup by checking against sites like eBay. Users can organize their collections into sets, teams, years, and more with customizable views. Collector’s Armory integrates with Beckett grading services to store grading details as well. The app allows users to take photos of each card front and back that are attached to the digital record. An online vault is included for securely storing the growing digital collection. Collector’s Armory offers in-app purchases to unlock additional features like trading and a larger photo storage capacity. The free version still provides robust scanning and collection management capabilities.

Another popular option is the Collector app from the makers of Beckett grading services. Like Collector’s Armory, this app allows scanning baseball cards by barcode or manual data entry. It automatically looks up values and populates key details. Users can organize their collections into customized sets, teams, and more. The app integrates tightly with Beckett services to store grading details and certificates. It also allows taking and storing photos of each card. A key feature is Beckett+’s alerts that notify users of new cards being added to their price guide, potential card value increases, and other updates. The Collector app is free to use but a subscription to Beckett+ unlocks additional features and perks. Both iOS and Android versions are available.

For Mac users, CardScan is an excellent desktop app for scanning baseball cards on Mac computers. The app supports scanning single cards or entire sheets of cards. It automatically recognizes the card image, reads any barcode, and looks up details in its extensive database. Users can build and manage digital baseball card collections with photos, values, notes and more. Collections can be filtered, searched and organized in different ways. CardScan makes it easy to track collection stats too. The app integrates with trading platforms to facilitate virtual or in-person card trades. Pricing plans are available ranging from a one-time purchase to annual subscriptions. The developer also offers the CardScan Collector iPad app for on-the-go scanning and collection management.

For a free, more basic scanning option, collectors can use the Collectorz app. This app allows manual data entry or barcode scanning of cards. It will lookup values and key details to populate the digital record. Users can organize their collections, take photos and add notes. The free version supports up to 1000 cards in the digital collection. For unlimited storage and some additional features, an in-app purchase unlocks the “Elite” version. Both Android and iOS versions are available. While not as fully-featured as paid apps, Collectorz is a capable free option for getting started with basic baseball card scanning.

For collectors interested in community features beyond just scanning and collection management, the Sports Card Trader app provides a social platform. Users can scan their cards, view market values, and build want lists. But the main attraction is the ability to connect with other users, post cards for trade, and facilitate virtual or in-person swaps. Users gain reputation through positive trades which is displayed on their profile. The app hosts a bustling marketplace where collectors can browse and propose trades with other active members. Both free and premium subscriptions are available unlocking additional features. Sports Card Trader is a great option for those wanting to leverage scanning capabilities while also tapping into an active community of other collectors.

Whether using a free basic scanning app or opting for a more full-featured paid option, digitizing baseball card collections has many benefits. It provides an easy backup of card information and photos in case of loss or damage to physical cards. Digital collections are much easier to organize, filter, and share compared to boxes of paper cards. Scanning apps pull valuable data at your fingertips, from values, details and stats to grading certificates. They also open the door to connecting with online communities of other collectors for trading, discussions and more. As the hobby modernizes, scanning baseball cards with dedicated mobile and desktop apps has become a must-have tool for organized collecting in the digital age.

BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE GOING UP IN VALUE

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Baseball cards have long been a popular collectible item for both casual fans and serious investors alike. While the vast majority of common cards hold little monetary worth, there are always certain cards that appreciate significantly over time as they become more scarce and desirable. Here are some baseball card investments that collectors would be wise to keep an eye on as their values continue climbing.

Perhaps the most obvious cards that will retain and gain value are rookie cards of star players, especially those who have Hall of Fame potential. For example, rookie cards for superstars like Mike Trout, Bryce Harper, Mookie Betts, and Juan Soto are sure to be worth a pretty penny decades from now assuming those players live up to expectations on the field. Trout’s 2009 Bowman Chrome Draft Picks & Prospects Superfractor card recently sold for an astounding $3.84 million, showing just how valuable a true generational talent’s earliest card can become.

Another area to focus on are cards featuring milestone achievements or special accomplishments. Cards that commemorate a player’s 3,000th hit, 500th home run, perfect game, or award/title wins are almost guaranteed to appreciate as those milestones take on added historical significance. A recent example is Fernando Tatis Jr’s 2021 Topps Chrome Superfractor RC, which skyrocketed in value after he signed a massive contract extension with the Padres, cementing his status as a franchise cornerstone.

Rookie cards for Hall of Famers who played in the sport’s early years are also great long-term investments. Stars from the T206, 1909-11 T206, and 1913-14 Cracker Jack sets like Ty Cobb, Cy Young, Honus Wagner, and Walter Johnson will likely never lose value due to their rarity, historical importance, and the legends attached to those players. In fact, the most expensive trading card ever sold was a 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner that went for $6.6 million in a private sale in 2016.

Vintage cards in general have been appreciating rapidly as the collector base expands. Sets from the 1950s like Topps, Bowman, and Play Ball are becoming quite valuable in high grades as fewer and fewer survive in excellent condition after 60+ years of wear and tear. The same goes for 1960s and 1970s issues, especially the iconic 1968 Topps complete set which recently crossed the $1 million threshold. As time marches on, these early 20th century cards will continue gaining in both price and collectibility.

Modern parallels, refractors, and serial numbered cards are another area showing steady increases. Parallel sets like Topps Chrome, Bowman Sterling, and Stadium Club provide collectors with more limited edition versions of current stars. These parallel rookies for Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuña Jr and others are selling for much more now than when initially released as those players blossomed into superstars. Serial numbered cards like prizm silvers, optic yellows, and luminance emeralds are also appreciating rapidly due to their low print runs.

Autograph cards are usually a very sound investment, provided you purchase legitimate, on-card autos from reputable sellers and grading companies like Beckett, PSA, and SGC can verify authenticity. Rookie autos of superstar pitchers like Clayton Kershaw, Jacob deGrom, and Shane Bieber will hold value exceptionally well. Game-used memorabilia cards are another category that maintains and increases in price over the decades. A recent example is Mike Trout’s 2012 Bowman Sterling Mike Trout Game Used Bat Logoman Patch card, which has skyrocketed in secondary market value in the past few years.

Of course, there are always risks to consider when viewing cards as long-term investments rather than collectibles. Injuries, scandals, or unexpected declines in play can devalue even the most promising rookie cards overnight. Market forces and economic conditions also influence prices up and down. Card condition is paramount, as a single flaw can wipe out profits. And there are no guarantees that today’s stars like Soto or Acuña will have the sustained careers needed to achieve superstar/Hall of Fame status. Still, by focusing on the categories above, collectors stand the best chance of selecting cards that appreciate greatly in value over the long haul. With patience and diligence, the hobby can reward investors as well as fans.

Baseball cards featuring rookie seasons of future Hall of Famers, milestone achievements, vintage legends from the early 20th century, parallel and serial numbered inserts of today’s stars, and authenticated autographs remain the safest long-term investments in the trading card market. As interest grows, cards from these select categories are poised to continue increasing exponentially in secondary prices for decades to come. For avid collectors, identifying diamonds in the rough from these groups can pave the way for highly valuable holdings.

LIST OF BASEBALL CARDS THAT ARE WORTH MONEY

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While most baseball cards have little monetary value, there are certain cards that can be worth a significant amount of money depending on their condition and scarcity. The following lists some of the most valuable baseball cards that collectors should be on the lookout for.

1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner – The granddaddy of all baseball cards is the legendary 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner. Only around 60 authentic examples are known to exist today. High grade examples in near mint to gem mint condition have sold for over $2 million, making this simply the most valuable baseball card ever printed. The rarity and mystique behind Wagner refusing production of his card has made it the undisputed number one target for collectors.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle – The first Topps design is highly coveted by collectors and the 1952 Mantle rookie is one of the crown jewels from that set. High grade examples in near mint to gem mint condition have sold for over $500,000. As one of the most popular players of all-time, Mantle’s rookie card consistently ranks as one of the most valuable sports cards in existence.

1987 Fleer Michael Jordan – Considered the true first Jordan rookie card since it was his first published during his NBA playing career, the 1987 Fleer Jordan is arguably the most iconic basketball card ever printed. High grade copies have sold for over $100,000 in recent years. As one of the most famous athletes globally, anything related to Jordan garners huge demand.

1957 Topps Hank Aaron – Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s legendary home run record and went on to hit 755 career home runs, making this 1957 rookie of his hugely desirable. Near mint to gem mint copies have sold for over $100,000. As one of the true icons of baseball history, Aaron’s first issued card holds immense collector value.

1913 E94 Zip Tin Lid Wagner – An earlier issued Wagner card with the same subject as the legendary T206, the E94 Zip Tin Lid Wagner is incredibly rare with only 2-4 survivors known. Near mint examples have sold for over $200,000. As one of the earliest depictions of the great Honus Wagner along with its ultra-scarcity, this card has attained great historical value.

1948 Bowman Mickey Mantle – While Mantle had cards in 1947, 1948 Bowman was the true first season release and showed Mantle as a Yankee for the very first time. High grade copies in near mint to gem mint condition have sold for over $100,000. It captures Mantle at the very start of his Hall of Fame career before he was a superstar.

1916 M101-8 Eddie Plank – A key early tobacco card issue, the 1916 M101-8 Eddie Plank is exceedingly rare with 5-6 known survivors. Near mint examples have sold for over $75,000. As one of the earliest issues combined with its great rarity attributes its high value. Plank was also a solid player for many years.

1933 Goudey Babe Ruth – One of the most high profiled players ever, Babe Ruth, was featured prominently in the 1933 Goudey set. High grade rookie cards and stars of the time like Ruth are difficult to acquire in gem mint condition. Near mint to gem mint copies have sold for over $100,000 in recent transactions.

1919 ‘Prominent Players’ Cicotte – A rare and early Cicotte issue from the infamous Black Sox Scandal era, the 1919 ‘Prominent Players’ Cicotte has extreme scarcity going for it. Only 2-3 are known to exist. Near mint examples have sold for over $75,000. Its place in history mixed with great rarity makes this a true treasure for collectors.

1952 Topps Jackie Robinson Rookie – Robinson breaking the color barrier was hugely important for the game. His 1952 Topps rookie captures that momentous time. High grade copies have sold for over $50,000. Its historical importance combined with being the true first issued rookie card adds immense value.

1962 Topps Sandy Koufax – Widely considered one of the greatest left-handed pitchers ever, Koufax’s 1962 rookie card came during his dominant Dodger years. Near mint to gem mint copies have sold for over $50,000. Koufax’s accomplishments make any related memorabilia very valuable to collectors.

1909-11 T206 Eddie Plank – Another key early tobacco issue, the T206 Plank shares rarity status with the far more famous Wagner. Near mint examples have sold for over $50,000. As a rare inaugural tobacco era issue combined with its elite condition, this Plank stands out.

1933 Goudey Joe DiMaggio – Like Ruth, DiMaggio was a superstar featured in the landmark 1933 Goudey set. High grade ‘Joltin Joe’ cards at the start of his Hall of Fame career fetch huge sums. Near mint to gem mint copies have sold for over $50,000 in recent years.

1969 Topps Willie Mays – Late in his career, but this captures an icon of the game near the end of his playing days for the Mets. Topps had exclusive rights, making high grades quite tough to find. Near mint to gem mint copies have sold for over $25,000.

While condition and scarcity ultimately determine final value, this covers some of the most historically significant and monetarily valuable baseball cards that all collectors hope to discovery in their collections or at a shop. With icons like Wagner, Mantle, Ruth, Robinson, Mays and more, these cards capture some true legends of the game at pivotal moments in their careers.

BASEBALL CARD SHOP THAT BUY CARDS NEAR ME

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Finding a Local Baseball Card Shop to Sell Your Collection

Do you have a collection of baseball cards gathering dust in your attic or basement that you’re looking to sell? Rather than trying to sell your cards individually online, your best bet may be to take them to a local baseball card shop to get top dollar. Baseball card shops employ experts who know the value of all kinds of cards, from vintage stars to modern rookies. They have the resources to properly grade cards and make fair market offers. Here are some tips for finding a baseball card shop near you that buys collections.

Ask Other Collectors for Referrals

If you’re active in your local baseball card collecting community, start by asking other collectors which shops they recommend for selling. Word-of-mouth is huge in this niche industry, so shops that treat sellers well tend to get referrals. Fellow collectors can vouch for shops and give you an idea of the buying process and average payouts. You may find a shop that specializes in the era or players you collect.

Search Online Directories

Major online baseball card marketplaces like Beckett and PSA/DNA have searchable directories of card shops. Input your zip code and a list of local shops will come up along with contact info and store details. You can read reviews from past sellers to get a sense of the buying experience. Sports card convention websites also list shops that exhibit, giving you additional options in your area.

Check Local Classifieds

Take a look on sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp for ads posted by card shops looking to buy collections. Shops regularly place “We Buy Collections” listings to attract sellers. The ads will provide shop information as well as what they’re currently focusing buys on in terms of players, sets and conditions. This is a quick way to identify potential buyers near you.

Drive or Walk Around Your City

Don’t underestimate the old fashioned approach of simply exploring your local area. Head to commercial strips and ask around sporting goods stores, comic book shops or hobby stores if they know of any card shops. Drive or walk through business parks, it’s not uncommon for shops to operate out of non-descript buildings. Cards in the window are a dead giveaway. You never know what you might discover close to home.

Call Local Card and Collectible Shows

Major card shows are held regularly in most metro areas, often monthly. Give the show promoters a call and ask if they have a list of shops from your city or state that exhibit. Exhibiting shops are definitely buyers as well. Show promoters can recommend shops to contact directly about selling outside of show hours. They want to support local businesses year-round.

Schedule Appointments at Potential Shops

Once you’ve identified a few shops located reasonably close, it’s time to start scheduling appointments. Call the shops and explain you have a collection you’re looking to sell. Most reputable shops will want to see the cards in person before making an offer. Ask about their buying process so there are no surprises. Also inquire about payment methods – do they pay cash or issue a shop credit? Getting these details up front will help you choose the best shop to work with.

Research Each Shop’s Reputation

Before settling on a shop, do some digging into their reputation through online reviews. Look for consistent praise for fair offers, quick payment and a pleasant customer experience. On the other hand, be wary of complaints about low-balling, lost shipments or poor communication. A track record of satisfied sellers is key. You also want to feel confident the shop will properly care for your collection after the sale. Don’t just go with the highest offer without vetting the shop.

Prepare Your Cards for Appointments

To get top dollar and make the process as smooth as possible, take the time to properly organize your collection before meetings. Sort cards by sport, set, year and condition. Consider having valuable cards graded by a reputable service like PSA or BGS first. Remove any damaged or worthless cards to avoid wasting time. Bring a detailed inventory list to reference. Shops will appreciate the effort and be able to make a competitive offer on the spot.

Negotiate and Choose the Best Offer

Most shops will make you an initial offer that can usually be negotiated, so don’t be afraid to politely haggle a bit higher. Compare multiple offers and consider factors beyond money like payment terms and the shop’s reputation. A slightly lower offer may be worth taking from a shop you completely trust versus a higher one from an unknown. Follow your gut and choose the deal that feels fairest. With some legwork, you’re sure to find a great local shop to sell your baseball cards to.