10K Card Journey

  • Why I Lost an eBay Auction Despite Having a Higher Max Bid than the Sale Price

    If you’ve ever lost an eBay auction despite bidding higher than the final price, you’re not alone. This article explains how eBay’s proxy bidding and bid increment rules work, why your bid may not be accepted, and practical tips to avoid missing out on future auctions—even when sniping at the last second.

  • The Future of Sports Card Collecting: Lower Fees Ahead?

    Despite major innovations in the sports card hobby, selling fees remain high—often exceeding 10%. This article explores how technology, from digital-physical integration to improved shipping and virtual experiences, could drive fees down over time, making collecting more accessible and potentially increasing the appeal and value of physical cards.

  • The Full History: 1932 Sanella Babe Ruth

    The 1932 Sanella Babe Ruth card, issued in Germany during his playing days, offers collectors an affordable entry point into vintage Ruth cards. While not as prestigious as his 1933 Goudey or 1948 Leaf, its historical significance and international origins make it appealing—though its high supply and photograph-like design may deter some.

  • Impact of Tariffs on the Sports Card Market

    The sports card market has historically bounced back from economic downturns, but the recent introduction of tariffs and stock market turmoil may create new challenges. Increased costs for international sellers and reduced discretionary spending could impact supply, demand, and liquidity—leaving collectors to navigate a shifting landscape with adaptability and caution.

  • Why 130Point Is an Essential Tool for Card Collectors

    eBay’s “Best Offer Accepted” sales often obscure the true price a card sold for, making it difficult to gauge market value. Enter 130Point, a free tool that reveals actual sale prices and provides clarity for collectors. While not perfect, it’s an invaluable resource for tracking sales trends and avoiding overpaying

  • PSA vs. BGS: Is there a Potential Arbitrage Opportunity?

    PSA and BGS are the two most prominent card grading companies, but recent trends show PSA cards consistently sell for higher prices—even when grades are comparable. Using a 2009 Topps Stephen Curry rookie card as an example, this article explores the reasons behind this price gap and whether it presents an arbitrage opportunity

  • The Full History: 2009 Topps Stephen Curry

    The 2009 Topps #321 Stephen Curry rookie card reigns as the crown jewel of modern basketball collecting. As Curry’s flagship rookie—featuring the Warriors’ classic logo—this white-bordered icon blends rarity (just 372 PSA 10s) with historic significance (revolutionizing NBA shooting). From $700 raw copies to the mythical 1/1 Superfractor (worth millions), it’s a grail for collectors…

  • Best Credit Cards to Boost Rewards Buying Sports Cards

    Choosing the right credit card for sports card purchases can make a big difference in the rewards you earn. On eBay, where there are no credit card fees, using a cash-back or points-earning card is a no-brainer. On Fanatics Collect and Arena Club, where credit card fees apply, the right card can still help offset…

  • Pros and Cons of the PSA Vault: Is It Worth It?

    The PSA Vault offers collectors a seamless way to store graded cards and sell them directly on eBay without the hassle of shipping. To test the process, I purchased a Paige Bueckers 1st Bowman PSA 10 on eBay and had it sent straight to the PSA Vault. While the platform was easy to navigate and…

  • Fanatics Collect Review: My First Purchase and Vault Experience

    Fanatics Collect is one of the newest marketplace and vaulting services in the hobby, and I wanted to test it out for myself. For my first transaction, I made a small purchase—a 1998 Topps Dirk Nowitzki Rookie PSA 7 for $11—to explore how the buying and vaulting process worked. While the platform boasts an excellent…