Collecting sports cards has its roots in the 19th century when tobacco companies placed baseball cards in packs of cigarettes. Eventually, this grew to include cards for other sports like basketball, football, and hockey. A major factor that significantly affects the value of a sports card is rarity. Cards produced in limited quantities are in great demand, and due to their rarity, a card's market value can skyrocket.
Another factor that affects sports cards is their condition. Companies such as Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), Beckett Grading Service (BGS), and Sportscard Guaranty Corporation (SGC) grade cards use a scale of one to 10. Sports cards graded PSA 9, BGS 9.5, PSA 10, BGS 10, or SGC are some of the most sought-after in the sports card market.
A sports card is also valued based on its special features or bonuses. These bonuses might range from game-worn jerseys to autographs. Buyers also consider features like action shots or refractors when buying a card. Also, changes in society, like the growing sentiment of nostalgia or the increased interest in certain sports, can affect the value of cards.
