How to Estimate the Value of a Sports Card

Instead of sticking sports cards in the spokes of your bicycle wheels, you might be able to use them to make some extra cash. Follow these steps to determine the value of your cards.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sports Cards Price Guides
• Internet Access
• Sports Cards

1. Read information on the back of each card, including the name of the player, year of the card, manufacturer of the card and the box set from which the card was collected.
2. Go to a sports cards dealer, bookstore or an Internet collectibles site.
3. View current price guides for the relevant sport.
4. Search for brand, year and box set of the card in each price guide.
5. Search for the player name, often accompanied by a card serial number matching the number on the back of the card.
6. Scan across the player name to the price listed.
7. Examine the card to determine its condition. Look for worn edges, printing inconsistencies and small imperfections.
8. Consult the price guide's definition of "mint condition" (typically listed at the beginning of the guide) to determine the value of the card.

Tips & Warnings

• Research multiple price guides, go to card shows and check with dealers to confirm value.
• Beckett, a well-established guide, lists prices in two columns - "mint condition" and "near-mint condition." Other price guides list HI (full retail selling price) and LO (lowest price on the market).
• Because guides reflect dealer prices, you might find it difficult to buy and sell at listed prices. Values vary.
• Be cautious of counterfeit cards and pack tampering.