The increased interest in trading cards, especially since the onset of COVID-19, has affected the prices of nearly all unopened material. As an example, a factory-sealed case of 1986 Fleer Basketball recently sold at auction for just under $1.8…
Collecting Tips
Not All Fresh Pulls Grade PSA Gem Mint 10
“But this card was pulled out of a pack and sent directly to PSA!” As a customer service representative for PSA, it’s a statement I hear from collectors all too often. Their disbelief comes across loud and clear when a…
Keys to Trading Card Storage and Preservation
The thrill of collecting trading cards is multi-faceted. You’re excited to land the cards, but now the trick is to preserve them, preferably in pristine condition. Having been around this great hobby for three decades, I’ve noticed a few things…
Carl Yastrzemski Card Values | PSA Collector Guide
In this new, ongoing series, we explore various sets on the PSA Set Registry, featuring the trading cards of iconic athletes. Select cards will be highlighted and the requirements of each set will be included. He is affectionately…
PSA is Going Paperless Starting April 1, 2020
Starting Wed., April 1, 2020, PSA will no longer be accepting paper carbon copy submission forms for orders involving cards, tickets, packs or dual service authentication and grading requests. Like most PSA collectors are doing already, you will be…
The Rise and Shine of Pokémon
Special thanks goes to the late Daniel Chuong who provided key contributions to this entry. Just when you thought you caught them all, a new challenge to complete your Pokédex arises. Shiny Pokémon were first introduced in the Generation…
PSA and KCBS-2 Examine Influx of Kobe Bryant Autographs
PSA Authenticator Reveals Telltale Signs The tragic death of L.A. Lakers legend Kobe Bryant on January 26, 2020, shocked and saddened the nation and fans across the globe. The 41-year-old star’s unexpected passing also set off a wave of fraudulent…
Tips for Building a Heisman Trophy Autograph Collection
“About four years ago, I started my quest to assemble every Heisman winner’s autograph in index card form and to have them authenticated by PSA/DNA.” – Jeff Taladay One of the greatest truths in our hobby is that collections can…
Screwdown Holders: The Perils of Card Preservation
A funny thing happened to me on my way to getting some of my coveted cards authenticated and/or graded by PSA. I quickly discovered the perils of using non-recessed screwdown holders. After serving a one-year hitch as PSA’s PR…
Autograph Collecting 101
When it comes to acquiring athletes’ signatures, there are plenty of ways to go about the pursuit. After several decades of collecting autographs, I’ve discovered that honesty and politeness can go a long way. By honesty, I mean ask…