How to Buy Sports Memorabilia Online

The sports memorabilia market has taken off over the last decade due to Internet purveyors. Individual collectors and companies dedicated to selling sports memorabilia have made it possible for the average fan to own a piece of his favorite sport. However, buy sports memorabilia with caution if using online resources.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Storage case
• Mylar bags

Purchase Sports Collectibles Using the Internet

1. Consult the website of a particular sports league to find online sources for memorabilia. Most leagues work with charities to auction off game-worn jerseys, helmets and autographed pictures to the public. You should check at the beginning of each season to find listings for memorabilia available for purchase.
2. Review certificates of authenticity for sports memorabilia before you decide to buy. Authenticating documents should feature a history of the item, as well as the signature of an appraiser and the proper owner of the item.
3. Search auction websites like eBay in your search for sports memorabilia online (see Resources below). There are millions of sports items and collectibles available through auctions conducted over the Internet. Approach these items with trepidation, because the authenticity of items may be questionable.
4. Print online listings for sports memorabilia to show experienced collectors before you make your purchase. For a small fee, a collector can determine the true value of a jersey or ball along with a reasonable course of action based on the available information.
5. Read through customer reviews for an online seller or memorabilia collector to determine her trustworthiness. Sports fans who desire a certain item but get poor service or a damaged item will likely warn others about these issues through seller feedback.
6. Choose shipping insurance and other special features made available by online purveyors when you purchase memorabilia. You should request extra packaging and adequate insurance coverage through USPS or another provider to keep your investment safe.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider memorabilia as a long-term investment, because jerseys, cards and autographed items typically grow in value.