Baseball Card Values: 5 Key Factors - By: Jim Hofman

The story has been told hundreds of times. Mom and Dad finally
sell the old house, and all the childhood memories are unearthed
from the basement and attic. And lo and behold, here's that box
of baseball cards from the 1960's! After a few minutes of
reminiscing about all your old favorite players, thoughts
immediately turn to, "I wonder what these cards are worth?".

If you've just stumbled across a long forgotten box of baseball
cards, the first thing to do is take a deep breath and gather
some realistic expectations. While your baseball cards likely
have some value, it'll pay off if you educate yourself on how
old baseball cards are valued and priced.

Here are 5 key factors that determine what baseball cards are
worth:

Factor #1: Scarcity

Scarcity of a card actually applies on more than one level.
First, the age of the card. It stands to reason the older the
card, the less likely an abundance exists in the market. Some
fairly common baseball cards from the 1910's and 1920's fetch
excellent value, simply because of time factors.

Next, scarcity applies in terms of the number of sets issued.
Many card manufacturers of days gone by are long out of
business. Further, some card manufacturers produced limited
stock. As an example, historically speaking, Topps produced more
cards than Bowman, so a Bowman player card would be worth more
than a Topps card, all things equal. A little research will tell
you the relative scarcity level of your cards.

Factor #2: The Player

In general, players who are inducted into the Baseball Hall of
Fame are worth more than other cards. The best players offer the
most appeal to collectors. Special cards, like rookie cards or
those commemorating a milestone, also have added value. If
you're unfamiliar with a player's relative status in baseball, a
few minutes of online research will give you the answers you
need.

Factor #3: Condition

Condition is probably the key factor of all. Many years ago, and
quite by accident, I acquired the very desirable Mickey Mantle
rookie card. However, the card was creased badly and had a small
rip at the bottom. In short, the condition was poor, and selling
it barely netted me enough for a decent dinner. A similar card
in pristine condition would've netted a few thousand dollars at
the time.

Take the time to learn, and understand, how a card's condition
will affect value. Better to be educated than disappointed.

Factor #4: The Market

Here's another factor with multiple applications. Much like any
collectible, the baseball card market is effected by economic
conditions. Not so coincidentally, this is exactly the time many
people look to sell their collections. This provides an
opportunity for bargain hunters to set the market.

Also, be aware that certain players cards are worth more in
specific geographical markets. As an example, a Chicago White
Sox player card would tend to be worth most in Chicago. You
should also research where a player was born, and look for
collectors in that city or town. Chances are, you'll net a
better price, particularly if the player was prominent.

Factor #5: Your Expectations

Your price expectations are also critical. If you're looking at
a retail price guide and your expectations match the listed
prices, you're in for a disappointment. In general, expect to
get about half the listed price. Remember, most big collectors
are also card dealers, and they'll look to resell your cards at
a profit.

Summary

If you're suddenly flipping through a long lost box of baseball
cards, our advice is simple: Take the time to educate yourself
about these factors affecting your card's value. Armed with a
little knowledge, you can very well net an impressive sum for
your cards.

If you've just stumbled across a long forgotten box of baseball cards, the first thing to do is take a deep breath and gather some realistic expectations. While your baseball cards likely have some value, it'll pay off if you educate yourself on how
old baseball cards are valued and priced.

If you're a baseball card collector, or simply want to learn
more about the value of baseball cards, you owe it to yourself
to check out our brand new baseball card collecting resource
site. You'll learn exactly how cards are graded, valued, and how
to get absolute top dollar for your collection. It's all waiting
for you at: http://www.baseballcardcollectingtips.info