Things You'll Need:
- Autographed articles
- Collectors magazine or website
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Step 1
Many factors will affect the price of the sports memorabilia. These include:
*The popularity and talent of the athlete
*How easy it is to find the article, or its rarity on the open market
*The amount of time that has passed since the autograph was secured
*The article's use in an actual game, particularly one of significance (such as the Super Bowl or World Series). -
Step 2
Consult price guides to get an idea what your item might be worth. Some sources might produce a ballpark figure (no pun intended), while others might have a price listed for your particular item. Price guides include Beckett (beckett.com) and collect sports.com. Also, consult a manager/owner of a local card shop, as these people often have years of experience and can aid in pricing your item. Securing several appraisals will give you more of a foundation with which to work, though it might cost you a bit more.
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Step 3
Consider the condition of your article because that will affect the price. For cards, bent corners or fading can lower the price. For balls and bats not used in a game, scrapes, stains or other noticeable blemishes may lower value.
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Step 4
Secure an appraisal from a certified, respected memorabilia expert if you want to be sure you have accurately priced an item. Also, eHow.com's Games & Toys Editor suggests taking rare or potentially pricey items to an auction house to secure the highest return on investment.
