With the surging popularity of sports memorabilia collecting in recent years, investing in sports cards has become an attractive option for many collectors and investors. However, the sports card market can be complex and volatile. Successfully investing in sports cards requires in-depth knowledge about different sports cards, understanding factors that drive value, and keeping up with market trends. This article will provide valuable insights on identifying the best sports cards to invest in right now.
Focus on rookie cards of future hall-of-fame players
Rookie cards of players who go on to have stellar, hall-of-fame careers tend to gain significant value over time. Identifying the next generation of superstar talent early on and acquiring their rookie cards can prove to be very lucrative in the long run. Some active players with valuable rookie cards worth investing in include Mike Trout, Bryce Harper and Christian Yelich in baseball; Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen and Justin Herbert in football; Luka Doncic and Zion Williamson in basketball.
Prioritize graded cards from reputable companies
Having cards professionally graded and encapsulated by reputable grading companies like PSA or BGS greatly enhances their condition and market value. The grading process assesses technical attributes like centering, edges, corners, surface condition etc. and assigns a numeric grade from 1 to 10. The higher the grade, the more premium the card commands in the marketplace. Investors should focus on PSA 9 or PSA 10 graded cards of star players to maximize returns.
Target key rookie card sets that hold historical significance
Certain legendary rookie card sets have an aura of nostalgia and historical significance attached to them, making them highly coveted by collectors. Key examples include 1986-87 Fleer basketball cards featuring Michael Jordan’s rookie, 1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card, and 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. Identifying and investing in iconic card sets with cultural cache can result in tremendous appreciation over the long term.
Consider long-term outlook and potential of emerging sports
The sports card market has expanded beyond the traditional major sports of baseball, basketball, football and hockey. Rookie cards of rising stars in emerging sports like soccer, MMA, golf etc. can also present lucrative investment opportunities. As these sports continue to grow in popularity globally, the market demand for cards of their biggest stars is also expected to rise steadily, boosting their long-term value.
Carefully selecting graded rookie cards of future superstars and hall-of-famers, focusing on key iconic card sets, and diversifying into emerging sports are effective strategies for identifying the best sports card investments.