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Step 1
Make a list of the cards you need to complete your collection. Prioritize your list, determining which cards you absolutely must have and which you can look for once you've managed to track down your favorites.
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Step 2
Bear in mind that a specific player's card might have been published by a number of different printers. There are several different publishers of a Mark McGuire rookie card, for example, each of which has a varying value. You'll need to specify the publisher of the card you seek when you search for it online or with a dealer.
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Step 3
Check out online auction sites like eBay and enter your specific criteria into the search field (see Resources below). Ideally, you should limit your search to the "Collectibles" section of the site, if the site you're using offers such a feature.
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Step 4
Visit your local sports memorabilia or hobby store, or call ahead to check whether or not the specific card you're looking to locate is currently in stock. If not, most stores will accommodate special requests to attain the card, if possible, or they will contact you directly if they get the card you're looking for in stock.
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Step 5
Head to a collectibles convention in your area, ideally one that is geared towards baseball collectibles, cards and memorabilia. You can find these by performing Internet searches, staying in touch with like-minded people in your community and browsing the "Community Events" sections of area newspapers. Ask the vendors at the convention if they can help you locate the specific card you're looking for--they just might have one on hand that's for sale.
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Step 6
Network. Build up a database of contacts in your community who also collect baseball cards. Someone close by might have just the card you're looking for and may be willing to sell or trade it to you.
