How to Sell Baseball Cards

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There are different outlets available for selling an individual baseball card or card collection. Know how to sell the fruits of your hobby and avoid getting ripped off.

Step 1: Learn collector jargon
Learn baseball card collector jargon. A "set" is a consecutively numbered series of cards. A "jersey card" includes a swatch from a players uniform.

Tip
While an "insert" is part of a card set, its appearance is different from the rest of the card set.

Step 2: Learn card values jargon
Learn terms used for card values. "Book values" are set on baseball card price guide values. "Sell value" is the most recent sale price paid for a card or collection.

Step 3: Learn card condition terms
Learn the descriptors used in grading card conditions. Terms include "mint," "near-mint," "excellent," "very good," "fair," and "poor."

Tip

Card prices can be affected by physical conditions where there's corner wear, creasing, and trimming.

Step 4: Get your collection graded
Get your collection professionally graded. You can find grading services through sports card collector publications and online groups.

Tip
While professional grading can cost a lot of money, it provides a valuable endorsement when selling your collection.

Step 5: Visit sports memorabilia shows
Go to card collector shows to get an overview of current baseball card prices. You can find information about schedules for shows in your area by searching online.

Step 6: Visit a major card company website
Visit a major card company website for a list of authorized baseball card dealers. Get a price quote at a dealer's shop.

Step 7: Sell your collection at an online auction
Sell through an online auction like eBay, especially if you feel that you know your collection's value. The internet can help you reach collectibles buyers from around the world. With some effort, your collection is sure to find a good home and bring you some cash.

Did You Know?
As controversial Detroit Tigers manager Billy Martin posed for a 1972 baseball card, he discreetly "flipped the bird."