How to Collect Trading Cards Online

Baseball and football fascinate you or perhaps you're a movie, history or comic book buff. Whatever your interest, there's undoubtedly a line of trading cards dedicated to it. Collecting cards is easier than ever with the convenience of the Internet, but be sure to take precautions when buying and trading online.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Decide what type of cards to collect. Sports cards (like baseball, basketball, football, racing and hockey) are popular, but collections featuring movies, television shows, presidents, superheroes and modes of transportation are also available. Conduct an online search to discover a line of cards dedicated to your favorite subjects.
2. Build a collection of "common" cards by ordering packs or boxes through Internet toy or bookstores, trading card websites or online auctions.
3. Search specific interest websites or general card collecting sites like TradingCardCentral.com to find individual pieces to complete your collection. Most feature message boards dedicated to buying, selling and trading (see Resources).
4. Post your want list on trading card websites and email your list to friends who frequent trading card shops and conventions. You never know when someone will spot your "holy grail," the one card you're desperately hoping to find.
5. Order materials to display and store your collection like protector sleeves, card sheets and binders or safe boxes.
6. Be an informed buyer. Study a website's grading scale to determine what type of card earns a "mint" condition, for example. Become a member of the online community to form trustworthy contacts and become aware of less-than-reputable traders.
7. Exercise caution when buying expensive or rare cards through the Internet. Check a seller's feedback and consult online pricing guides to be sure you're paying a fair price.