Baseball Card Collecting 101 - Tips, Tricks, What to do, What to avoid with Baseball Cards

[@steveparkin2366]

This is just one opinion from a long time collector that has gotten out of the hobby for the past 15 years. Once in a while I miss the fun of pack busting. I have a huge Andy Van Slyke collection (among others) that I built largely through online trading, card shows and occasionally getting lucky with packs. Putting a collection together that way was a blast. I got older and technology allowed me to just click/buy anything that I wanted. Obscure, rare, stuff that was harder to find.... became as simple as a few clicks and it was mine. This collecting bug for many of us was not about what we had.... but about what we were trying to find and acquire. Its not very satisfying - IMO - to just buy everything without having to hunt, wait, or get lucky. Its not the destination, its the journey! I remember going to card shows, hunting for Andy Van Slyke cards. (rarely an expensive pursuit) I'd leave the show with 20-25 new ones, costing me 8 bucks total, and being thrilled at each find. That's what I miss. I have a bunch of stupid parallels and weird variation or regional cards to get now to finish my Van Slyke checklist, all certainly valid entries to my collection... but given the cost of them, the joyless process of paying cash for something easily obtained....... its hard to get motivated to do it. It was more fun getting Van Slykes than having Van Slykes if that makes any sense.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sounds like you have quite the Van Slykes collection.

[@TheBoxBreakers]

@steve parkin we have several Andy Van Slyke pack openings, if you want a free giveaway let us know about it and we'll send you Free Van Slyke for your collection.

[@brianrogers1907]

Would be really cool if you gentlemen would go over all the terminology today used for sportscards, especially on sites like Whatnot. I can't understand half of those terms they use. Thank you.

[@LouRokTV]

I've been collecting most of my life...and this is why I watch ur videos! We can always keep learning.....luv da channel!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is always something new to learn in the hobby

[@jmengel87]

Keep up the good work, guys. Just recently got back into the hobby and always look forward to BBCJtv episodes and your individual account videos.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

James Mengel thanks for watching man! just glad people find our videos informative and entertaining! ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@darrensmalley3966]

Watched this when I first started collecting several months ago. Wached it again just now (a year after it was posted). Makes me re-examine my collecting goals and focus. I realize I enjoy making sets not for investment but just for the fun of it. As a new collector it's been fun to see the collection grow and change as I learn more. The other day I soent 6 hours to whittle down my collection and gave 2/3rds of it away. For me, that was fun spending time with the cards. Thanks for the vid!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for the awesome feedback! We are VERY happy you found this video so useful! Thanks for watching Darren Smalley, and happy collecting!

[@joey__4759]

Dont forget to have fun. Some people get too serious about it. Dont get your hope's up on getting the coolest cards in the boxes you buy.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Having fun is the key, thanks for the comment!

[@pepinoman9271]

almost everything I've learned about modern baseball card collecting I've been learning from you guys. thanks a bunch

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

pepino man thanks bud, glad you found it helpful! ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@pepinoman9271]

very helpful, thank you

[@darrensmalley3966]

My Collecting Mistakes as a new collector: Not budgeting - spending on impulse and spending more than you thought you would. Not realizing the 2 reasons for collecting - entertainment and investing, and confusing the 2. Buying just to buy without thoroughly enjoying the purchase. Buying cards without a clear focus for the collection. Not spending enough time with the cards you do have before buying more.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is a video to be made on JUST these topics! May have to do a Baseball Card Collecting 102!

[@LunOta87]

I am new to the hobby, I just posted an above comment on the "categories" I would like to collect. However I do enjoy opening a new pack but that could be the beginners buzz. I have read NOT to buy the small packs at local stores if you have a desired goal, but to just buy the cards you want directly. I guess what I am asking is, what would be a good reason to buy the packs you see at target or walmart or anything like that?

[@darrensmalley3966]

Ryan Quinn - I determined that buying small retail packs is good to simply see what the base card design is like. I would buy them to see if I would like to buy the higher end products of a certain brand. When I first collected, I wish I had bought one small pack of each product first before deciding on one brand to focus on. For me, set building is enjoyable, so that is my answer. Others who have different collection goals would answer differently. Carboardconnection.com has great articles on collecting. Enjoy the hobby!

[@GradedSportsCards]

This is a stellar video for a new collector! Great work guys!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed it

[@jeeterlind7362]

Yes I'm the victim of the Junk era. But I have to admit, I wouldn't trade those years for anything. As a kid, buying those packs, chasing the UD Griffey or the Jerome Walton face profile card, or the Murphy reverse card... etc ...etc. The point was, that we were all hoping those cards will bring so much money in 20-40 years. Now that I'm back in the game, I've learnt a few things over the years. Before I drift off too far, I like to comment you (both of you) on your love for the game. I've watched a lot of your videos and i can still see that you two still have that fire and desires. As for me, after over 20 years later, I see this game as more of an investment. I came up a fool proof method that will guarantee at lease my money back (of course minus the inflation). At this point, if I chose to liquidate I would quadruple my money. BUT THE POINT IS, I don't even look at these cards anymore. When I get them in the mail and after a few mandatory cross references, they go directly into storage. Perhaps due to other obligations and priorities. So, I do have mad respect for you both. KEEP UP THE GOOD GAME.

[@TitanicTaters]

jeeter lind thanks for watching, and for the compliments!

[@REDDOGandtheFAM]

Very Informative! I've been out of the hobby for years. Decided to come back and found out that the "Lingo" has totally changed. Thank you for this video.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We are glad to help, it can be overwhelming

[@HoldenJohnson]

Your videos have taught me so much, I went out today and bought my first box from a local hobby shop and pulled a 1/1 auto Jose Conseco! Thank you so much! I can't believe i've wasted so much on Retail.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Congratulations on the epic pull!

[@HoldenJohnson]

BaseballCardJunkiesTV thank you!

[@HookEmMikeE]

Stumbled across this video in the suggestions and was completely surprised! I've been following Nate for a few years now and somehow didn't even know about this joint channel! Great stuff fellas, super helpful vid for new collectors and even some good tips for us vets!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for checking out the video. Eric and I have been at it on this channel for about two years now.

[@darrellgeist2061]

Nice video! I really enjoyed watching your video. Been collecting since 2014. My biggest mistake was not collecting names. Players who was in line for the mvps etc. Last two years I been doing a lot better.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@thecollectingattorney9783]

Definitely agree on spending wisely. I still like to buy hobby boxes just for the thrill of the opening - a treasure hunt so to speak - but have been doing a lot more looking for specific cards.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That is great that you enjoy the hobby using differed avenues!

[@chrisolivo6591]

Like many collectors, I grew up in the 80’s and saw the boom and crash in the early 90’s with my collection. It was still a great lesson in supply and demand. I’m interested in getting back into collecting as my focus would be 1980’s PSA graded rookies of the 4 sports. 1981 Topps Montana, 1989 UD Griffey, 1986 Fleer Barkley, etc. It looks like PSA 8 is in my price range for most of these rookie cards as PSA 9 is alittle out of my range and PSA 10 is not even on my radar. Is it worth it to have a collection of PSA 8’s from that era? I’m collecting for the fun again, but obviously I still want them to hold their value as I know they won’t appreciate much. I do worry PSA 9’s and 10’s rookies are overvalued in this market, but I could be wrong? Interested on your opinions?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

The price of the higher grades is partly driven by the completive nature of the collectors in the set registries. Buy the card not the grade, 8's are a great collector grade and you can get much more bang for your buck.

[@robbob96]

Thanks for the video guys. What surface (table/mat/granite/etc) is best when handling/sorting your cards?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

All are fine as long as your careful

[@nygnympccards7248]

I love this video this is the type of videos I watched before I started collecting again in the 2012 season.. Awesome awesome video

[@TitanicTaters]

NYG/NYM pcCards glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching

[@rmjackson1340]

I'm getting back into the collecting game and wondered if there was any good organization software that I could input my older stuff. I was hoping there would be a nice downloadable database as I was a set builder in the past and DO NOT want to input every single card by hand. Any ideas?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

"Trading Card Database" and "Beckett" both have what your looking for.

[@jasonbentley3185]

I have been getting back into cards from the 80s, I have been buying psa/dna cards from eBay but they don’t have a grade. What’s your thoughts on psa/dna cards

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sounds like you are buying cards with the players' signatures on them...? I personally have several. However, if the card does not have a signature on it, you DEFINITELY want a grade. Thanks for watching! ~Eric #TitanicTaters

[@WeskerGriff]

Excellent video and pointers for newcomers to collecting. I also know what your username means Nate! But I won't spoil it for others. You talked about it awhile back in one of your videos.

[@TitanicTaters]

and I'm the one that is the super collector lol

[@robschaefer9136]

Great video guys. appreciate the new knowledge. Things have changed so much sense the 80's. I Remember when Autographs on a card was considered a ruined card. anyways looking forward to watching more of your videos.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks a bunch for tuning in!

[@rayfromphilly6969]

great video guys. very informative. one other thing for people to look for when buying is stock photo compared to original photos. make sure its the real photo.

[@TitanicTaters]

this is definitely important; we'll cover it in the follow up/update for sure

[@matthewkight9639]

Are cards that are in the packs and boxes at places like Target not good? Can you get a big box store card graded? Meaning can I send a random card out of a pack to be graded?

[@tophatter74]

Yes u certainly can. The cards from those stores are the same as any high end place. The difference is that the packaging they come in might be less likely for u to hit a rare card. If u want a rare card it's easier and maybe even cheaper to just buy that specific card online.

[@vinshibee]

Where do you put your common cards at

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We give them to kids to promote the hobby

[@CORE1.8MINISTERIES]

What about breaking up hand collected sets for rookies that Are in there that are worth more, For grading?

[@kennybarton6004]

Also and 19 78 I acquired a dodgers pennant from a baseball camp in LA autographs all over it even autographs from a few Giants some A's there is a Dusty Baker on there there was Jerry Ruess Sandy Koufax there was couple other autographs I couldn't make out but I've had that in my collection for years was a good fined he traded it for some lunch money actually about lunch three days in a row for it. Really nice guy what a score !

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That's awesome!

[@shawndeer9485]

I have an unopened 91 Fleer set, Green, says 732 +50 stickers on bottom right. Bought from Hooks Drugs, 29.99, in your opinion do you think it’s worth it to open and go for the individual cards that are popular or just keep it unopened!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

You can find the unopened complete set online for $5-$10 these days... hopefully that's the price you paid for it in 1991

[@ao55032]

Maybe you have done a video on how to best store vintage cards. Have you? What I'm reading is that older cards, 50" and 60" are possibly different sizes than newer one. Correct? I want to store my vintage cards better than in sleeves in binders. Please advise on how to best approach this.

[@MrJmangini]

Love collecting! Great to spread the knowledge.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks a bunch for checking out the channel John!

[@GPadugan]

great video! just got back into the hobby a few years ago and have been pretty discouraged. I learned a lot from your video, including that the number one thing I liked about collecting, is also the worst......breaking boxes. I guess I'm a product of the junk wax Era. the hobby for me was always treated more like lottery tickets. buying a pack and hoping to pull something good. buying singles just doesn't scratch that itch.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

GPadugan glad you found it helpful! I, like you, used to LOVE busting boxes and ripping packs back in the late 80s/early 90s! Now, I just feel like I need a shower afterwards because I feel dirty and used lol. but it's still fun sometimes. I still try to stay away. singles and even "lots" are the way to go now. happy collecting! ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@grossbrosparodies9610]

Have you guys ever used the free sports card pricing guide Card Mavin? Just wondering what your opinion is on that site.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

No

[@darrelllshields1]

Can you please do an updated video and incorporate the the current products put out....the info in this video is great but a 2020 version would be personally helpful to many...thanks for all of your content.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

When we start recording new content we may do that, thanks for tuning in!

[@FISHERMAN331977]

Pulled a Roberto Clemente SSP out of Topps 2019 series 1. Any idea how many were made and what it's worth?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We have no idea on that, you can do some research though, that's part of the fun.

[@jjlaing3204]

Comc is your friend

[@davidwillis1576]

where can i get a universal listng of baseball cards? I have lots of older cards....pre 1970's but want to have checklist to see what i have versus ones i do not have. Something perhaps to download into excel spreadsheet.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is a community of vintage collectors on a form called NET54. There is also the standard catalog of baseball cards that will identify different issues including the ones that are not main stream. We may answer this question in our next video.

[@pcwcecac]

This is extremely helpful. Thank you very much. I have always placed a large premium on grade, mainly because I do not have the know how to evaluate the condition of the card. May I have some advice on how to evaluate how centered, or how sharp a card is? Bgs also has a grade for auto which I think is silly. Would that be your opinion too? Thanks!

[@bashbrothers-hh7jm]

I always love watching your videos

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Glad you like them!

[@ressikanflute]

I saw where somebody bought the Otani 1/1 for over $3000. Many BO forum members commented that it went too cheap. Made me feel better about my 1/1 Kershaw and Harper Gypsy Queen Box Toppers. An apples to oranges comparison for sure , but at a fifth the price for the pair, there is almost zero downside.

[@JerkyJones100]

Great video. Def cleared up a bunch of stuff for me. Thank you. I subscribed

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for the sub and kind words!

[@peteblueline]

Are you guys still doing your channel

[@boxbreakaholic6477]

Whats the price difference in price between hobby and retail?

[@lobrosezz1827]

Typically, there is more packs or cards in a box of Hobby than retail....Typically Hobby boxes go anywhere between 32-40 dollars...and then retail offers a variety of products at 10-20 dollar range.

[@lefreyre]

Boxes go for 80+

[@joshchapo]

Great video!! I collected as a child, now I'm 34 I collected Don mattingly only, in late 90's early 2000's I was out of the loop, but got back into it here+there, life happens and slowed down collecting, now over the past 10 years I been collecting a lot! How do you guys feel about 1/1's 1/5's etc...? I try to always grab all number ones if possible in autos, (if the condition is mint). In my hay day I always thought I would be able to obtain every mattingly card, until they started making all the 1/1 cards, no way one person will own them all. I also will just pay! If it's what I want price wouldn't matter. So question on my mattingly collection, my goal is to try TRY lol to get the run in all types and brands that I like. Ex. get all the signature series colors, try to get all topps museum auto colors etc. mattingly is still very very sought after!! You guys have way more expierence in modern new era cards. Is this the way to go? I would really like every single mattingly made, but that won't happen I know this. I have 1/1's so know other mattingly collector are in same boat as I am. Would just like your thoughts. I will be making a video soon of a mattingly room with almost all my cards. (Recently bought house with extra room for that reason. Lol) thanks guys sorry for long comment. Thank you

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

As a player collector I go for all the cards numbered to 10 or more, If I can pick up lower numbered cards that is a bonus.

[@javieralonso1239]

I have a 2005 Adam russ fleer.number 124 classic clippings except it doesn't have anything written below his picture is it worth anything have you seen this before

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We are not familiar with the card in question.

[@thomassteinbroner3050]

What is your take on vintage wrappers and display boxes

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Cool items to collect!

[@mattcanada5955]

Just getting back into the hobby, I appreciate these videos. I have 1 question. What are your opinions on the legitimacy of relic cards? Are the jerseys and bats actually game used by the player on the card?

[@caseywalker1714]

+Carolina Card Collector Player worn jersey is left uo to interpretation IMO

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Charlez Xavier the cards made these days will SPECIFY "game worn", "player worn", "game used", etc... so you can feel pretty confident of the relics, patches, etc. I'd say pre-2010, maybe even pre-2006, you should be a little more skeptical about what the card claims. ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Casey Walker you are right on there. "player worn" means they essentially paid the player to put on that jersey, pant, hat, whatever; these days though the cards WILL specify "player worn" vs "game used". ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Carolina Card Collector almost 100% correct with the autos... the only real autos that have fraud issues are the ones that come encased in a magnetic, like the Topps Chrome retired signatures. people will take the real auto out and replace it with a forged auto. so just make sure the ones you buy state "Topps certified auto" on the card. ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@caseywalker1714]

Again guys no words can express how excited and appreciative I am of this channel... If you get to talk some cards and celebrate the good days past/present *then weve already won*... #SALUTE

[@briankershaw3403]

Hey guys, I’m getting back into collecting, and interested in football cards. What brands would you recommend collecting?

[@clementerivera5296]

Love these videos, even though I don't collect baseball the content keeps me coming back for more. I would love to see a segment on counterfeits and how to shop safely for cards and other collectibles.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We did make a video talking about this subject matter a few months back.

[@michaelrodriguez2993]

Great informative video, I’m collecting soccer but it’s almost the same thing except we don’t have a value to rookie cards. Thank you for the knowledge:)

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@moorebama3735]

LOVE IT GUYS!!!!KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!!!

[@TitanicTaters]

Thanks! We appreciate the positive support!

[@Domirep24]

Hey, have you heard of MLB Champions? The figures are on the blockchain so you can always verify how many figures are in existence. Theres a gaming aspect to it also that rewards you with more figures if you play well. Would love your input on this type of collecting.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sorry... never heard of it

[@swpo1]

What is the diffrence between hobby and retail?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Basically, HOBBY are boxes a Sportscard/hobby store would carry... RETAIL are boxes a Target/Walmart type store would carry

[@swpo1]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV I understand that but is there a diffrence between the contents inside the box from either your local card shop and that of maybe a local wal-mart or big box store? Thankyou for your time and knowledge. Its much appreciated.

[@talonwilson6330]

mac madden Hobby usually has better odds of pulling hits

[@pauld8790]

What do you guys think of the 1989 Upper Deck Randy Johnson and PSA 9 or 10

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That is a great card, it's affordable in any condition

[@buschleaguegaming8173]

I would love for you guys to have a podcast! Post it weekly on spotify, that would be amazing. But also I am starting to collect more vintage cards. Should I start saving up for the most expensive or should I go for the cheapest and work my way up. Im looking to collect 1933 Goudey and t209 1906-1909

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That is a great idea, where talking about doing that now!

[@phale925]

Great information and advice. Thanks for sharing. Question: I find on occasion "small" cards in a pack. What are those called?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

The small cards are simply called mini's

[@phale925]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV thank you.

[@cmikesmith664]

Who still collects for the fun of it? 🙋🏻‍♂️

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That is the only way to collect, if your not having fun it's a business.

[@chrisgilbert3834]

Thanks, fellas. Super helpful for someone coming back to the hobby after 15 years away. Question for you: Is there any reason at all to buy retail packs or boxes?

[@johnolson7052]

I need to figure out what to do guys, need a tip. I keep my commons stored by set and year. But I have a bunch of numbered inserts/autos/refractors of busted prospects and former, faded all stars. Can't imagine these are worth keeping in top loaders. What do you guys do with this type of thing?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

John Olson if you want to get rid of them, comc.com would be a great way to do that... it's pretty cheap to sell on there and they do 90% of the work. The players may not be collectable on their own, but set builders still need them! depending on the players, I might be interested if the price is right

[@Joshystyle]

You guys are awesome, love your videos. Thanks for helping out the newbies like me.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks a bunch for the kind words

[@Swoop187OG187]

Well, I totally agree - if you want a card then just buy it - don't go out and spend tons of money on boxes if you're only looking for one card. Now on the flip side of that you can always but a product, break it and maybe you will but if you don't there are numerous message boards online where people trade all the time. So you may not pull what you're looking for but you will certainly (usually) will pull something someone else wants and you can trade. That's what I do because I enjoy breaking product and I have good luck as far as value and in most circumstances you'll get your value out of the product, you may just not get the cards you want - but that's why we trade, that's what the hobby's about... And yes try to buy hobby unless you're looking for format exclusives.

[@JacobWilliam]

Thanks for the great video! I have a couple questions. I collect Cincinnati Reds team sets from Topps. Should I focus on chrome cards or regular series 1,2, update cards. I personally don't like the look of chrome cards but wondering if they are that much more desirable. Is a bowman RC better than a Topps RC or vice versa? Thanks! I'm subscribed now.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

+Jacob Burress chrome is more desirable in the hobby, but, that being said, if you don't like the look of chrome then don't collect it. This hobby is so personal... you are going to look through your collection more than anyone, and what's the point of looking through something you don't like...? Generally speaking, with modern rookie year cards (that have a RC label), the topps cards tend to be more popular, if only because bowman already has cards featuring players from prior years. Usually the really hot card will be a parallel of an earlier bowman card. Hope that helps! ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@JacobWilliam]

BaseballCardJunkiesTV thanks!

[@thcaprasecca]

Barry Bond's tops 1989 is it worth anything?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

No but it is a cool card

[@franktribble6634]

I just inherited a few Thousand cards can you tell me what’s valuable and what is not they go into the 1930,s

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is plenty of resources to value a collection on the internet. We are not in the business of appeasing collections.

[@jasonforsythe8463]

How do I get a list of short prints and super short prints for each series of cards?

[@timlewis6777]

Look on cardboard connection

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Beckett.com

[@jjlaing3204]

Trading card database

[@keithvancampenhout7879]

The single best channel on KZbin.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@acecampbell8594]

Love the overall video. Agree almost completely, except for not collecting BVG for vintage. In my opinion they are still the best case, looks & feels the best. Has a soft case inside and because they are less I tend to sell them for more than PSA for example.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for sharing your opinion on the BVG slabs.

[@brandonma9058]

What packs should I buy for best value? Newer cards or older cards?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That question is impossible to answer, you have to go what your collecting interests are.

[@paulsenconnor]

Just dug out my box of baseball cards, found a mike scott topps archives fan favorite certified autograph issue card. The signature looks like blue marker. Is this real/hold any value to where I should take special care of it?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sounds like a great card but not much value.

[@paulsenconnor]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV sounds good, thanks guys. Finding your channel has brought back my love of baseball cards again! Keep up the great content!

[@loujpiro3682]

Great video. Does every reprint card say on the card reprint?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

I wish they did

[@micahbush7972]

What is the best box to buy, looking for autographs and relics

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

IF your looking for prospects go Bowman if your looking for HOF and Star players go Dynasty

[@micahbush7972]

BaseballCardJunkiesTV alright, thanks

[@mauricebrown9641]

As a new collector, with no knowledge at all, I've been buying sealed/unsearched cards. Are there any merits to starting out this way? They are all advertised as vintage. I thought of vintage as pre 80s. All I am finding are 85 to like 92 so called modern vintage?

[@Paul7_]

The reason you see late 80s and early 90s cards a lot is because it’s the junk wax era, where so many cards were printed to the point where almost none of those cards are worth anything.

[@0ptimal]

Great informative video. I'm really out of date, been twenty years since I've bought a pack. But I think the bug has bitten me again, I'm soaking up all the info I can find.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Have fun with the hobby, it's changed a lot and is a blast these days!

[@Travis-pf3gt]

Hi, two questions: 1. I want to start a collection but all my heroes like Clemens, Bond, McGuire, Canseco etc...had their careers and card values blown up by the steroid bust bomb. Other than sentimental value, is there any other reason to still collect such players? 2. Is there a difference in value between the sticker autographs and the on card one's, and are the sticker one's worth investing in? Thanks in advance, great channel! :)

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

I personally PC Mcgwire, and Nate's PC is Bonds... While we are labeled "super collectors" as far as those two players go, there certainly is merit to still collecting those players, ESPECIALLY key rookies, rare inserts/parallels and autographs... even early game used materials (pre 2003-2004). For example, all of their KEY rookie cards graded PSA 9 (or even better: PSA 10) fetch pretty handsome sums (I bought my 1985 Topps Tiffany McGwire RC for around $90 about 3 years ago, an example of that same card sold for $290 on Dec 2, 2017 on ebay, and sold for over $500 in October 2017 TWICE). Rare 90s inserts of these players also sell very VERY well. Both of these examples are HOT in the hobby right now. Depending on the type of sticker auto, some can still be very attractive to buyers, but as a general rule: on card autos are more sought after

[@spyderanaheim2128]

Who do you think will be the players to drive the 2019 season this year I'm baseball I'm gonna try and buy my first case of bowman this year and am curious if this year's rookies and prospects will be as flooded as 2017 was or be like 2018 where there's only 2 real names that you hear n will be of value...ill be hopefully getting a case of bowman jumbo hobby m with 24 autos guaranteed om curious what you think?

[@JohnDoeDeadhead420]

Acuna and Vlad Jr for sure are both big money hits

[@ragingpirate5727]

Eloy jiminez

[@2682shark]

I have a few key rookies from the 80s , I know they aren’t worth much raw but do you recommend trying to get them graded?? I know it’s extremely difficult to get 10s but I feel like they’re worthless if not graded... any suggestions???

[@JohnDoeDeadhead420]

Depends on player and check eBay and see what they are worth paying to get the slab

[@pauld8790]

So many Ken Griffey Jr 89 upper decks graded and they're still worth a fortune PSA tens of course

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

It can be fun to grade your cards, use a 10 times jeweler loop to make sure they will grade well though.

[@migue7m]

Which Gleyber Torres rookie card would you recommend?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

We do not give advice on modern rookie cards, in 10 years most will not be worth much.

[@linwoodprice6389]

Any rookie card of any player you need to have Bowman Chrome. They hold value better and it’s considered the real Rookie Card. I don’t agree on 10 years that it won’t be worth much. Does that mean Trouts rookie won’t be worth much in 10 years either. Torres may not be as good but he is damn good and he plays in the best possible scenario-The Big Apple.

[@linwoodprice6389]

It’s not a player’s true rookie if he comes to the majors and makes his debut that still wouldn’t make that his Rookie year unless he had more than 120 at bats. Most that come up at the end of the year are sent back down to keep from losing a year.

[@linwoodprice6389]

Why does Bowman Chrome put out a card say 2017 Christian Pache then in 2018 they put out a Pache card that says 1st Bowman Chrome. That’s obviously not true.

[@Chasepalmer1885]

I’m back in the hobby to just collect marlins cards do you guys have any advice? Should I just buy team sets? Or are there other ways?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Team sets are great for collecting the entire set of base cards of your favorite team. You can also pick up singles of your favorite players if you decide to pick up relic and auto cards.

[@Chasepalmer1885]

Great thanks love the videos by the way

[@LunOta87]

Thank you for the great video! I am new to the hobby and am getting into it just for fun and build my own collection. With a few exceptions, I don't plan on buying high end cards so to speak (yet). I want a binder of every yrs: World Series 25 man team, AL/NL All Star starting lineups/ pitchers and AL/NL rookie/MVP. Are these "categories" a waste of time? I do know they sell World Series team packs at the end of the season. Also, I found the "Topps Now" cards interesting to keep cards of milestone moments for players and the game. (For example, I have become a huge Aron Judge fanatic and would like the cards they make if and when he breaks the rookie HR record.) Are there other cards out there that capture "moments"? Other than that, I want to collect all things Yankees and Cardinals as that is mine and my Fiance's favorite teams. g As well as any hall of famer's from around the league. I plan on only buying "Topps" as of right now and have gotten the series 1 and 2 packs. Should I be buying something else to improve my desired collection? Any tips would be great. Thank you and sorry for being long winded, Ryan

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

The best advice we can give if your not an investor and pure collector is collect what you like. We really like your idea's for what would make a fun collection. Thanks for watching!

[@kennybarton6004]

Thanks guys appreciate it starting to get back into it started mid-70s stop in the mid eighties but in that time I acquired a lot no cash involved tons of Petros sons of Henderson Johnny bench, also acquired a bunch of Willie Mays Mickey Mantle 1 babe Ruth terrible condition unfortunately lots of really cool rookie cards my father-in-law just passed recently at age 97 and I got first pick all the cards that I wanted I'm not even through it's collapsing he left I pulled out some outrageous surprises I'll just leave it at that for now can't wait to get through this collection I will though say tons of autographs rookie cards Ken Griffey jr. Frank White a lot of 70s dodgers Sandy Koufax thanks again guys ! Little side note my wife she grabbed a few older cards before I got to father-in-law's collection I think it was like five or six card she took 1 include a pee wee Reese near mint condition sold it for fifty bucks what a joke I will never live to let her down on that one LOL

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sounds like you have a great collection to go through.

[@JuanAguilar-ps8zh]

what do you guys think about blaster boxes? are they worth the $20?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

If you can afford to get nothing for your $20 but the fun of opening packs than yes, if you get any kind of cards of value that's a bonus.

[@jpmnky]

There can be some real value in those blasters. Most have blaster exclusive relics, etc. You won’t find a lot of autos though.

[@joshchapo]

If you were to grade cards who would you prefer, Beckett or psa? I've watched the packers guy videos on psa vs. Beckett so I was just curious of your input on getting cards graded. I have a whole slew of mattinglys that I wanna send out. (autos, game used, jumbos, and 1/1's) I have some graded already from both sides Beckett and psa. I like the way they both seal their cards, Beckett seems a little harder to get gem mints. From what I see is psa grades is more sought after than Beckett grades.however Beckett gives a price on graded cards through them. They don't list psa graded card prices. It would be nice if psa and Beckett would combine their graded cards for better pricing and population reports. I have a few psa gem 10 mattingly autos that are population 1. THROUGH PSA. Does Beckett have one of these autos as a gem 10 I don't know. That's why it would be nice if they combined them together so we as collectors would know both sides Beckett and psa. Thanks you in advance for any info. You guys have a lot of great info!! Thank you again!!

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

PSA

[@maxajackson89]

Not a new collector by any means but I still enjoyed the video quite a bit. A couple web sites I would add to the ones you listed, sportlots for buying singles and cardboard connection for information on checklists.

[@TitanicTaters]

ah yes, we did forget to mention Cardboard Connection! We'll probably do an "extended edition" soon because I'm sure there is a TON of stuff we forgot. thanks!

[@mullethead777]

+Titanic Taters (Eric707) was wondering if you could help me? I can't find a value for this card any where. 1997 zenith z team ken griffey jr sequential number 83 of 1000? thanks.

[@TitanicTaters]

+RISING FAWN FORGE I checked beckett, eBay, and comc.com... couldn't find anything. I'll send you a pm here with my cell number. if u can text me the front and the back of the card that might help. I'll also check with topps85401; he is VERY knowledgeable when it comes to rare and obscure 90s parallels and inserts

[@TitanicTaters]

hey, you don't have an email set up on youtube... if you go to my "about me" page you can send me a message. send over your cell # and i'll text back with mine

[@caseywalker1714]

Cardboard Connection is definitely good money

[@SteelCurtain_90]

Great video guys.. I enjoyed it. I have a question for ya... do you like/dislike screwdown holders for single high end cards? I've been collecting for 30 years using screwdowns and then stored inside thick custom boxes that I line with good quality Styrofoam. I have both vintage and the newer thick auto-relic cards ...and of course I use the proper thickness holders. I haven't ever had any negative issues so far, other than with refractors sleeved and put in top loaders, but that's another topic. But I've heard "somewhere" ...that it's not good to store cards in screwdowns. Soooo... I'd appreciate your thoughts on it. And if you'd be so kind as to suggest the best way to store refractor sets too? Thanks a lot.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

In many cases screw downs can damage modern cards. I prefer one touches or toploaders

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

screw down holders also can distort the real condition of the card.

[@HFM-lk2hz]

Can someone explain to me what a baseball card lot is? I have an idea of what it is but I’m not completely sure.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Typically a lot is a stated quantity of cards up for sale. Example a lot of 25 Make trout cards.

[@fliplife67]

That's 1 lesson I learn the hard way just buy the card instead of opening packs and boxes some boxes are already higher then what U might pulled out for example I was trying to get a card that might have been anywhere between 10 to 30 dollars but the box was like 250 a box.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Buying singles is the way to go if your looking for cards that cost less than a break.

[@fliplife67]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV Its probably the best way but thanks to the Internet I'm not even sure if your getting fair value on what your buying.

[@eligarza7919]

Hey guys great info, I'm looking to get started on collecting cards I have more interest in team building, but I don't really know which brand to buy got any ideas on were to start?

[@discoszn6403]

Eli Garza topps chrome I started with that if you have the money buy a box of it try to avoid individual packs if you can to avoid getting repackaged cards. It is unlikely you would probably be fine with individuals packs though. I’d definitely recommend topps chrome or regular topps update series

[@eligarza7919]

@@discoszn6403 thank you.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Check out your local card shop and buy the cards that peek your interest. For team collectors the most popular are the flagship Topps sets

[@tenfourproductionsllc]

collect the team you like the most to be honest. Or sort them all by team only, actually easier than keeping track of 100s of different sets of cards. If you ever have to sell, having them sorted by team MIGHT get some interest from collectors, even if they are from the junk wax era.

[@Africanfrogs]

My first couple months collecting trading selling etc. still don't know much still learning. Only have 3 pcs. Have bought three hobby boxes so far. Best hits have still come from retail blaster boxes.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Check out all out videos, hopefully we can help you a bit. Thanks for the comment

[@garyi8608]

Where are you guys and haven't seen you on here in months?

[@paopaocarabao]

Good day! I just started. But i was really interested in Ohtani. Sadly, he is expensive. lol. I really love Gypsy Queen so i bought the PSA 10 and SGC 98 of Shohei's Gypsy Queen base (PSA) and Missing blackplate (SGC). Should I buy items raw for the other parallels? What should I buy? Also, are autos really worth getting into especially im just buying new cards. I really don't like buying players that i really dont care and know about (i'm talking about vintage and pre 2000s).

[@bomorris5050]

Ohtani's prices will continue to settle as the season heads into the 2nd half of the season. Optic just came out, and they have absolutely FLOODEDthe market with Ohtani rookies. There are 11 different variations of Ohtani in 2018 Optic, whereas the Padres and Marlins have 4 players each in the entire set! I would stay away from Ohtani autos because they will continue to settle as more sets come out with them in there.

[@paopaocarabao]

I would definitely pause my ohtani collection and buy some gleyber torres if that is the case. Thanks! Are non autos as of the moment something we should not consider anymore in terms of the modern baseball cards?

[@bomorris5050]

If you are simply collecting a certain player, then there's nothing wrong with it. Base rookie cards are worth having... but know that they are going to resale for much at all. Resale is all about auto and 1/1 relic. A simple jersey relic isn't worth much because Panini has fooled people with player-worn material... not game-used. HUGE difference in the two.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Sounds like your new at collecting. The best advice we can give is buy what you like. Only buy what you can afford and have fun. Your collection will evolve into what brings you the most joy and will determine the direction of your collection.

[@paopaocarabao]

Thanks now ill just focus on ohtani gypsy and michael mercado and buehler. Those are my top 3. Also Michael Baez. Hopefully im correct haha!

[@zeffizeffizephy7931]

Good day! I just started this week and got some 2003-04 Upper Deck SpX should i sell them as packs? I found them laying around at the back inventory of the local card shop and they were even surprised they have it. Also bought three donruss cards. I feel sad that I didnt realize that iwasnt high end cards. Is it worth it to buy them? What boxes should I buy? I have an excess amount of money and I really like the thrill of chasing and opening booster packs rather than buying in ebay. What high end boxes are coming to baseball/basketball or brands that I should lookout for. Pls help. Send help.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Your welcome to go back and watch all our videos, they will answer your questions.

[@paddydaddy14]

just found your channel - well done guys! I'm one of those getting back into collecting after 30 years or so. What are your thoughts on the various software that are out there to help with organizing, documenting, etc... reading reviews - well, so clear cut winners. Also as, using your words, ambassadors to the hobby - how do you share/ display your collections? Or point me to the episode that you covered these please?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is a huge community of collectors here on You Tube. Many great channels with different ways of displaying there collections. You can start by checking out our personal channels TitanicTatters and topps85401. The most popular sights for cataloging collections is "Trading Card Database" and "Beckett Market Place". Welcome back to the hobby and happy collecting

[@DJB1NK]

I literally just opened my first box and to be honest I did the first thing you guys said not to do (prior to watching video) aimed for my team(Padres) and literally got 2 red parrallel cards of my fav players in the first pack lol I guess it worked out for me haha

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Congratulations, that's awesome you pulled some nice PC cards!

[@jjlaing3204]

Retail blasters are the worst unless you're set building or just want to bust a cheap box

[@caseywalker1714]

What cards do you think are best buys to retain values... I have been doing more football & basketball because the baseball stuff is a lot. I appreciate the advice... #SALUTE

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Casey Walker honestly, it's all pretty much the same. there is an equivalent with football and basketball for everything in baseball... you'll have your high value stuff and your low value stuff just the same. Panini is popular with football and basketball, while Topps is popular for baseball. if we are talking "investment" collecting for baseball, I'd recommend vintage cards (anything issued 1980 or earlier) that are graded at a 7 or better (PSA or SGC), then once you get down to cards in the 1950s and earlier, depending on the player, you can go lower on the grades. for some, even a PSA 1 will have a decent resale value. for modern cards the HIGH grade 1980s and 1990s rookies of star players are doing well, and we are talking PSA or BGS 10 pristine grades. for cards in the last 10-15 years, it's tough to say because the values fluctuate so much depending on the player's actual production... in 2015 Bryce Harper was SUPER hot, but now it seems like you can't even GIVE AWAY his cards. I'd say that unless you are doing high end product, and the player is doing well, there is very little profit in ANY modern cards, no matter what sport you collect. If you are just collecting for fun and enjoyment, just collect what you want and what is eye appealing to you... If you are a player collector and love the hunt, go for products that have lots of parallels (Panini Prizm and almost any offering from Topps), if you build sets, then just pick a product that looks good to you and fits your price range. I hope that helps. thanks for watching! ~Eric "Titanic Taters"

[@caseywalker1714]

THANK YOU BRO

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Casey Walker no problem bud!

[@caseywalker1714]

BaseballCardJunkiesTV I totally with what you said on graded cards... I seriously doubt I will ever resale cards (unless I'm just paying it forward)... Im checking on things to make sure I don't repeat past mistakes. The graded cards make sense for sure. I needed that information on what grades & years to look for... Thanks Again #TATERS

[@BronxBomber-mf9hl]

I remember when Tim Salmon and Mike Piazza started out and Piazza was the hardest card to get on the other hand Salmon wasnt and they were both ROY

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

That is a great memory for you!

[@northstarstatepolitics1652]

is it weird i use me pokemon card binder for my baseball cards? i used to be into pokemon cards but i got bored of it so i decided to get into baseball cards and i have my small pokemon binder almost completely filled up with baseball cards.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

There is no wrong way to archive your collection. The main goal is to have fun.

[@northstarstatepolitics1652]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV and luckily i do have fun! baseball card collecting is one helluva hobby.

[@whatsnext8696]

What are your thoughts on ebay card prices being so low? I'm buying psa 10 nolan Ryan for 4-20$ + 3.40 shipping?

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Depends on the card... anything pre-1980 I'd say is a pretty good deal... a regular run of the mill base card between 1981 to present, I'd say you are probably overpaying.

[@Dan0rioN]

I got a plastic bin/tub full of loose cards for $50.. There is also a binder & in it i know of 3 cards alone which are worth $200 together after grading of course.. which I likely won't bother with lmao..

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Thanks for tuning in

[@travmasters4231]

hello good fellows, hey i have a question that id really like ur guys opinion on.... I'm pretty sure u might know what i mean when i mention this and that being all these 22kt. , 23kt., 24kt., gold and gold foil etched sports trading cards i see sum that are legitimately from a big brand co. like fleer or topps, then i see sum from like the Danbury mint or highland mint, theen their i see sum that have been graded by an authendicator that are reprints of a big name players rookie card but the manufactuer of the card is unknown even though they are individually numbered and certified and graded by an authendicator. thanks for reading and would appreciate urs thoughts on this subject, heck who knows maybe u can maybe post a vid explaining these cards and ur guys thoughts on them, thanks u 2 guys stay cool and have fun no matter what u collect brothers.

[@BaseballCardJunkiesTV]

Great question on the gold cards. For the most part they are unlicensed cards made as a novelty item, not worth anything but they are cool for player collectors.

[@phale925]

@@BaseballCardJunkiesTV the gold foil can be chemically removed from the base, melted down, and sold or kept.

[@josevelez5815]

I am in need of assistance regarding the direction I need to take as I have an enormous amount of sport cards and don’t know where to begin. Can you help?

[@jjlaing3204]

Depends on what you're trying to do. Are you collecting, buying & selling, flipping, investing, or combination of all?

[@forrestmetzger6130]

I'm assuming "Topps85401" refers to the 1985 Topps #401 (Mark McGwire's Olympic rookie), since you're a McGwire fan. :)

[@xPaPaJoCk]

good video , I'm looking to collect football cards but this information can transfer over

[@TheSparkyMC]

I had the same question. I'm collecting Football, BaseBall and a few other cards