How to Sell Your Baseball-Card Collection

Are those old boxes full of baseball cards taking up precious space? Don't toss them; you might have a Sammy Sosa rookie in there! Here are a few steps to help you make money while getting rid of baseball cards that are sitting on your shelf collecting dust.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Beckett price guide.

1. Sort your cards according to manufacturer (Topps, Fleer, Score, Donruss, and so on). Try to get a complete set, which is all the cards in one manufacturer's series for a particular year.

2. Look for names you recognize and put those cards aside. Cards of popular players sell well individually.

3. Search for rookies. A player's first major-league card (check for minor-league statistics on the back) sells best. The card's condition will play a big part in its price.

4. Find a buyer at a local sports-card shop. Selling over the Internet is time-consuming, but you might find someone who will pay more. Sell rare and valuable cards at auction.

5. Check the Beckett price guide. Prices vary for cards of current players, but retired players' cards hold their value. A 1954 Ernie Banks rookie card might sell for $500, depending on condition.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear is expected in old cards. If it's a rare card, it will have great value despite some flaws.

• Expect to get less than half the listed price if you sell to a shop owner.