Beckett Grading Services (BGS) began grading sports cards in 2001 as an extension of Beckett Media, a company well-known for its sports card price guides and hobby publications. The grading service was established to provide collectors with a trusted and professional way to authenticate, grade, and encapsulate their sports cards. Key Features of Beckett Grading…

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A great sports card collecting story resonates because it blends elements of personal passion, unexpected discovery, and the broader human connection that makes the hobby special. Here’s what often makes these stories memorable: 1. A Rare or Unexpected Find The Element of Surprise: Stories of stumbling upon a long-forgotten box of vintage cards in an…

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The best time to buy singles in the sports card market depends on various factors such as player performance, seasonality, and overall market trends. Here are key times when singles are typically more affordable: 1. Off-Season Why: Player demand and hype often cool down when the sports season ends. For example: Basketball Cards: Prices drop…

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Sports card shows have surged in popularity in 2024 due to several factors that reflect broader trends in the hobby and collector culture. Here’s why they’ve become a focal point for enthusiasts this year: 1. Post-Pandemic Resurgence Why: After pandemic-related restrictions limited in-person gatherings, collectors are eager for face-to-face interactions. Impact: Sports card shows provide…

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SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) and PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) are two of the most well-known third-party grading companies in the sports card hobby. They provide authentication and grading services to evaluate the condition and legitimacy of trading cards. Grading by these companies can significantly impact a card’s market value. 1. SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation) Overview:…

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While the sports card hobby has experienced significant growth in recent years, several challenges could threaten its long-term sustainability. Here are potential reasons the sports card hobby could face difficulties: 1. Overproduction (“Junk Wax Era 2.0”) Issue: Card manufacturers may overproduce products to meet demand, reducing scarcity and value. Impact: Collectors may lose interest if…

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The sports card community on YouTube has experienced significant growth, with numerous channels dedicated to various aspects of the hobby, including box breaks, investment strategies, and collector interviews. While it’s challenging to determine the exact number of sports card-related videos on YouTube, the platform hosts a vast and continually expanding collection of such content. A…

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A sports card auction is a marketplace or event where individuals or businesses sell sports trading cards to the highest bidder. These auctions can take place online, in person, or at specialized events such as sports memorabilia conventions. Sports card auctions are popular among collectors, investors, and enthusiasts looking to buy or sell rare, valuable,…

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The 2024 Topps Chrome Update Baseball set offers collectors various opportunities to pull valuable cards, including Refractors, Autographs, and Insert Cards. The odds of obtaining these “good” cards vary depending on the card type and the product format (e.g., Hobby Box, Jumbo Box, Mega Box). Here’s a breakdown of some notable cards and their approximate…

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Inflation can affect sports card prices, but its impact is influenced by various economic factors and market dynamics. Here’s a breakdown of how inflation might affect sports card prices: 1. Increased Prices Due to Rising Costs Production Costs: Inflation increases the cost of raw materials (e.g., paper, packaging, shipping). This can lead to higher retail…

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