Investing in Sports Cards in 2025

Remember the good old days when we all collected sports cards? Even back then, the thrill of buying rare cards, trading them with friends, and comparing each other card collections was like nothing else in this world. 

But little did we know that our precious collections would become much more valuable than we thought. That’s right. Sports trading cards have evolved from playground mementoes to high-value collectables and alternative assets. 

Today, they represent a thriving alternative market, attracting both seasoned investors and passionate collectors.

If you're new to the idea of investing in sports trading cards, don’t worry - this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started, from the fundamentals of the market to strategies for success.

What Are Sports Trading Cards? A Brief History

For those who aren’t familiar with the concept of sports trading cards, let’s start with the basics (if you’re a seasoned card collector, you can skip this part). 

Sports trading cards originated in the late 1800s when tobacco companies began including baseball cards in cigarette packs to boost sales. The concept grew rapidly, and by the mid-20th century, brands like Topps had entered the mainstream. 

By the 1980s, the market expanded even further, introducing dedicated cards for basketball, football, and niche sports. In the 1990s, technological advances like holographic designs and autographed inserts added new levels of collectability. 

While the "junk wax" era (the late '80s and early '90s) saw overproduction dilute value, the industry rebounded with a focus on scarcity and quality.

Today, the trading card market is booming, driven by nostalgia, digital innovations, and the growing popularity of alternative investments. Speaking of which…

Why Invest in Sports Cards

Sports trading cards offer a unique mix of nostalgia and financial opportunity. This makes them a great asset for both collectors and investors. 

They are more than just pieces of cardboard; they represent moments in sports history, the legacies of legendary athletes, and a tangible way to diversify an investment portfolio. Here’s why they’ve gained traction in the world of alternative investments:

Tangible Assets

In a world increasingly dominated by digital investments like cryptocurrencies or NFTs, sports trading cards offer something refreshing: tangibility. 

Holding a rare card evokes a sense of security and ownership that digital assets simply cannot replicate. Moreover, tangible assets like trading cards are less influenced by external market forces such as inflation or interest rates. 

While traditional financial markets might experience volatility, sports cards operate on a unique set of dynamics driven by collector demand, player popularity, and cultural trends.

Diverse Returns

Rare and desirable trading cards have shown consistent appreciation over time, often outperforming traditional investments. For example, the value of high-grade vintage cards, such as the 1952 Mickey Mantle rookie card, has skyrocketed over the past decade, achieving returns that rival blue-chip stocks or real estate.

Even modern cards can yield impressive returns when tied to breakout players or pivotal moments in sports history. For instance, a Lionel Messi rookie card surged in value following his FIFA World Cup victory, demonstrating how real-world events can directly influence trading card prices.

More importantly, this growth isn’t limited to the high end of the market. Collectors and investors at all levels can see returns, making trading cards accessible for newcomers and rewarding for seasoned enthusiasts.

Portfolio Diversification

As an alternative asset class, sports trading cards provide diversification beyond traditional investments. They often perform independently of financial markets, offering a potential hedge against economic downturns or stock market volatility.

For investors, this means trading cards can act as a stabilising factor in a broader portfolio. While equities and bonds may react to global financial trends, the value of sports trading cards is primarily driven by supply, demand, and the enduring appeal of the players or sports they represent.

Additionally, trading cards are highly flexible. Investors can choose to focus on vintage cards for stability, modern cards for growth, or even niche sports. This flexibility allows for a tailored approach to diversifying investment portfolios. 

How to Find the Best Sports Cards to Invest In

So, yes, investing in sports trading cards offers several potential advantages. However, if you’re serious about entering the market, you need to understand what drives the card’s value to make the right investment. 

Consider the following value-driving factors when searching for the best cards to invest in:

#1 Player Popularity

Each card features a given athlete. That athlete is usually the primary driver of the card’s value. Cards of star players - both past legends and current icons - tend to fetch higher prices due to their widespread appeal and enduring legacies.

For instance, Michael Jordan’s rookie card remains one of the most sought-after items in the basketball world, while Babe Ruth’s cards are synonymous with baseball history. 

On the other hand, rookie cards of up-and-coming players can offer significant growth potential. A breakout season, championship win, or record-breaking performance can send a player’s card values soaring overnight.

When evaluating a player’s card, consider their current form, status, and potential for long-term legacy. 

#2 Card’s Rarity

Rarity is a cornerstone of any valuable collectable, and sports trading cards are no exception. Cards produced in limited quantities or those with unique features are highly sought after by collectors and investors alike. Examples include:

• Rookie Cards: These are the first cards issued for a player and often hold the highest value over time. 

• Autographed Cards: Cards that feature a verified signature from the athlete are especially desirable, with values tied to the player’s popularity and legacy.

• Serial-Numbered Cards: Cards with specific print numbers (e.g., 1/25) are often prized for their exclusivity.

Also, an important note: rarity doesn’t always mean vintage. Modern cards with intentionally limited print runs, such as the Panini Prizm or Topps Chrome series, have created a new wave of rarity that appeals to both collectors and alternative investors.

#3 Card Condition

Card condition is another critical factor affecting its value. Even the rarest card can see its worth decline if it shows signs of excessive wear and tear. The rule here is simple - the better the card’s condition, the more it’s worth. 

Collectors and investors rely on professional grading services, such as PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator), Beckett Grading Services, and SGC (Sportscard Guaranty Corporation), to assess a card’s condition.

These companies use strict criteria to evaluate:

• Centring: Is the image on the card perfectly aligned, or does it skew to one side?

• Corners: Are the corners sharp and intact, or are they rounded or frayed?

• Edges: Do the card’s edges show any chipping or wear?

• Surface: Is the surface free from scratches, stains, or printing defects?

Grading scales typically range from 1 (poor condition) to 10 (gem mint). The difference between a PSA 9 and a PSA 10 can result in great price differences. 

At Splint Invest, we work hard to ensure that each sports card we buy is in the best possible condition. We also ensure proper storage and handling, preserving our cards' value and protecting your investment. 

#4 Historical and Cultural Relevance

The card’s cultural and historical context also plays a key role, adding another layer of value. Vintage cards, typically those produced before 1980, carry incredible historical significance. For collectors, they are the relics of the bygone era, representing the early days of professional sports. 

For example, the Honus Wagner T206 card is considered the "holy grail" of baseball cards due to its rarity, historical importance, and association with one of the game’s greats.

Modern cards can also hold historical value if they commemorate significant moments - a card featuring Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup trophy, for instance. 

#5 Market Trends

Finally, you need to think about market trends as well. The trading card market doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s connected to sports and cultural trends. Understanding those can help you predict which cards might appreciate in value.

Keep an eye on events like the retirement of a popular player, a historic win, or a breakout rookie season. With a finger on the pulse of the world of sports, you’ll be able to identify investment opportunities early. 

Where to Buy (and Sell) Sports Trading Cards

Knowing which cards to invest in is one thing. Another is actually buying the card. And to do that, you must first learn where you can get rare cards. Let’s quickly go through the most popular options:

• Online Platforms: Websites like eBay, StockX, and COMC are ideal for browsing a wide selection. However, they are also a promised land for scammers. Be sure to check seller reviews and card authenticity before purchasing.

• Specialist Marketplaces: Platforms like PWCC and Goldin Auctions cater to high-value card sales, offering added layers of security and grading verification.

• Card Shops and Shows: Local card shops and collector conventions provide opportunities to inspect cards in person and negotiate prices. They’re also excellent for networking with experienced collectors.

Investment Funds: An Alternative Way to Invest in Sports Cards

If you don’t want to spend hours researching cards, verifying their authenticity, worrying about storing each card appropriately, and then finding a buyer, Splint Invest offers a much more convenient way to invest in sports cards. 

We allow investors to tap into sports cards’ investment potential through pre-vetted funds managed by our experts. To invest, you need only create an account. We’ll handle the rest.

Top Sports Trading Cards in Our Portfolio

• Shohei Ohtani 2016 Epoch HNF Season Achievements Letter Patch I 6/6 PSA 9: Shohei Ohtani's trading cards have surged in value in recent times, driven by his historic 50-50 club achievement that has increased his cards' value by around 10%. Investing 500 EUR in Shohei Ohtani's trading cards could yield significant returns, with a projected value of 1,557 EUR in 5 years and net annual profits of 25.5%

• Aaron Judge 2017 Immaculate Quad Rookie Patch Auto 1of1 BGS 8.5 + 10 Auto: This unique Aaron Judge rookie card stands as a 1-of-1 treasure, celebrating his record-breaking accomplishments with the Yankees and offering collectors a tangible piece of baseball history that celebrates his enduring legacy. With just 3.0% annual total costs (including exit fees), a 21.4% net profit per year is expected. 

• Jayson Tatum, 2023 Prizm Logoman Auto 1 of 1 PSA 9 + 10 Auto: This rare Jayson Tatum Prizm Logoman Autograph 1/1 card, one of only four released in recent years, combines Prizm’s renowned market cap dominance with the highly coveted Logoman configuration, offering collectors an iconic piece with an impressive projected value of 1,418 EUR in 5 years on a 500 EUR investment. 

• Victor Wembanyama 2023-24 Panini Instant Rookie Full Spurs Logos /2 x 2: These Victor Wembanyama NBA-licensed cards are his first-ever full-size patch cards featuring the complete Spurs logo, debuting in the esteemed Panini Instant product line and projected to reach a value of 1,412 EUR in 5 years for a 500 EUR investment. 

Important note: All the cards above are already sold out and closed for further investment. However, we typically release 2 to 3 sports cards per month, providing you with plenty of opportunities to tap into the exciting world of sports card investments. 

INVEST IN TRADING CARDS TODAY

Tips for Sports Cards Investors

The success of your sports card investments relies on strategy, patience, and awareness of market dynamics. While there’s no certainty your investment will reap returns, there are several best practices you can follow to maximise your chances:

Stay Updated on Sports News and Market Trends

The trading card market is naturally tied to the sports world. A player’s performance, events, milestones, or public profile can all dramatically affect card demand. 

For example, a stellar season, a championship victory, or a record-breaking achievement can send the value of a player’s cards skyrocketing.

That said, be sure to monitor player performance. Keep an eye on rising stars and established athletes. Breakout rookies or players entering the prime of their careers often experience surges in card demand. 

Another good practice is to watch for milestones. Events like Hall of Fame inductions, final seasons, or career-defining moments can create spikes in interest.

The best idea to stay ahead of market trends is to leverage online resources, such as sports news outlets, auction platforms, and collector forums. 

Aim to Diversify Your Collection

Diversification is a cornerstone of any successful investment strategy. And yes, this also includes sports cards. While it’s tempting to focus on one player or sport, spreading your investments across various categories can mitigate risk and maximise potential returns.

For instance, avoid putting all your capital into a single athlete, even if they’re a superstar. Unexpected events like injuries, scandals, or retirement can impact their cards’ market value. Balance your collection with rookies, current stars, and legendary players.

Another good strategy is mixing cards from different sports. While basketball, baseball, and football dominate the market, other sports like tennis, golf, and MMA are gaining traction. Investing in multiple sports reduces dependency on trends in a single market.

Be Patient

Patience is a key trait for a successful trading card investor. This is because, while some cards can deliver quick returns, many require years to reach their full value. 

Rookie cards featuring emerging players, for instance, usually take years to mature. For example, Tom Brady’s rookie cards were relatively affordable early in his career but became incredibly valuable as his legacy solidified.

What is the right time to sell then? There’s no golden rule. The best idea is to stay updated on the player’s career and legacy. Be also sure to monitor collectors forums for any updates and potential selling opportunities. 

Wrapping Up

Although investing in sports cards isn’t rocket science, it does require some effort. With the right approach, you can turn what many people treat as a hobby into a profitable and exciting investment. Start small, do your research, and always invest wisely.

And if you want to tap into the incredible world of sports card investing without the associated hassles, Splint Invest is here to help you get started. Join today for free, invest in one of our pre-vetted funds, and start building your portfolio. 

We release 2-3 new cards a month, so sign up to stay updated and explore new opportunities.