Used Baseball Cards: A Guide for Collectors
Baseball cards are one of the most popular collectibles in the world. Since the 1800s, companies have been printing images of baseball players on pieces of cardboard. While the early cards were not specifically intended for collecting, they have become highly valuable pieces of history. Even simple cards from the early 20th century can fetch tens of thousands of dollars due to their rarity.
More modern baseball cards from the 1970s through the 1990s saw explosion in popularity. Companies produced sets with hundreds of cards featuring current players, stats, and memorable baseball moments. Kids traded and collected cards with their friends and in many ways, baseball cards exemplified America’s pastime. With so many produced during this time period, these common used baseball cards still make up the bulk of what collectors seek out today.
Buying used baseball cards presents collectors with many opportunities but also challenges to avoid scams and low quality cards. By keeping some tips in mind, collectors of all experience levels can find great used card buys.
Inspect for Condition
Condition is arguably the most important factor when evaluating used baseball cards. Even a desirable rare player could be nearly worthless if the card is damaged, worn or falling apart. Take time to closely examine any used cards under bright light before purchasing. Look for:
Bends, creases or folds: These can significantly downgrade a card’s value. Avoid anything more than minor corner wear.
Scratches: Light surface scratches may be ok but deep scores that cut into the image hurt value.
Dirt/grime: Cards should be reasonably clean without caked on dirt that could damage the surface over time.
Corners: Rounded or pointed corners indicate a played card rather than carefully stored and can lower grades and value.
Edges: Dinged, worn or ragged edges downgrade condition. Look for clean, sharp edges.
Top graded used cards in Near Mint or better condition hold the most long-term value. Anything clearly worn should be priced accordingly or avoided. Reputable used card sellers will clearly describe condition so buyers know what to expect.
Consider the Set and Year
Not all baseball card issues are created equal. Sets from the 1970s like Topps, Post, and Donruss are among the most collected hobby issues and find the strongest resale demand. Rookie cards of Hall of Fame players in high grades will always carry premiums as well. On the other hand, there is less enthusiasm for sets from other decades that produced vastly more cards which led to overall lower values even in top condition. Knowing the specific set, year and associated factors helps collectors properly evaluate used cards.
Autograph and Memorabilia Cards
Find Used Authentic Cards
Signed cards and those with memorabilia patches or swatches have grown rapidly in popularity but also counterfeit risks in recent years. Unless a used signed/memorabilia card comes straight from a sealed factory set or gets a Certificate of Authenticity from a respected third party authenticator, buyers need to exercise caution. Look for:
Sharp, clean autographs that match the player’s published signature styles. Faded, sloppy or suspect signatures deserve extra scrutiny.
Tight, accurate cut swatches or patches that are securely fused or stitched to the card. Loose, oddly shaped or out-of-place patches could indicate fakes.
The absence of over spray of ink, glue or binding materials around autographs or relic materials that usually occurs during counterfeiting.
Stay Current on Player Values
Just as in the stock market, factors like career performances, awards, championships, personal scandals and retirements can cause once hot players to rise or fall sharply in hobby demand and associated used card values. Hall of Fame elections particularly boost older player cards. Keeping tabs on the current collecting trends helps avoid overpaying for used cards of players whose values have cooled or underpaying for rediscovered gems. Resources like Beckett and PSA/DNA price guides provide valuable insights.
Beware of Rebacked or Altered Cards
Unscrupulous sellers sometimes try to pass off obviously worn, damaged or incomplete used cards by concealing flaws through alterations. Rebacking involves glueing new card stock over an original fronts and backs while trimming edges to hide issues. Altered boxes are another red flag. These practices are discovered through expertise or modern authentication methods and drastically reduce real collectible value. Stick with unmodified used cards in original condition.
Research Sellers
Dealing only with trusted, established sources for used baseball cards helps avoid scams and disappointments. Check online seller histories on platforms like eBay, consider local or national brick and mortar card shops and inquire about return policies too. Steer clear of private sellers with little feedback who might not stand behind post-sale service or condition claims. Joining hobby forums introduces collectors to proven, knowledgeable community sources too.
There is no better time than the present to get started or expand a collection with quality used baseball cards. With due diligence focusing on condition, player, set and seller factors, collectors can find many exciting rediscoveries and undervalued diamonds in the rough to enjoy for years to come. Patience and expertise are rewarded long-term in the game of collecting cards from baseball’s storied past.
