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…
Collecting Tips
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…
Giving Thanks to the Hobby
As the leaves change color and temperatures drop, many of us appreciate this time of year for the opportunity it presents us to look back with gratitude at the wonderful things that we have in our lives. Of course health,…
Gridiron Glory: The Lost Art of Signing
Throughout 30 years of covering, researching and writing about this great hobby, I’ve discovered one indisputable truth. The level of penmanship practiced by professional athletes has waned considerably. Is the habit of signing one’s name a lost art? Maybe…