Why Theft is a Big Issue in the Sports Card Hobby: The Importance of Taking Care of Your Collection

By Eliud Alano July 11, 2024 16:30

For a sports fan who is also into collecting, nothing really tops the excitement of getting yourself one great piece of sporting history by way of trading cards. But theft has become a big issue in our hobby lately with the increase of these cards skyrocketing. Here we explore why theft continues to plague the sports card hobby and what can be done on safety measures level.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The National 🇺🇸 (@nsccshow)

The Rise of Card Values

Sports cards have seen an incredible surge over the past handful of years with certain cards going in auctions and private sales for hundreds of thousands if not millions. The increase in value has in turn created a demand for sports cards, making them an ideal item to steal due to the financial incentive associated with stealing these items as they can be sold at high prices.

Targets Worth Protecting

Our sports card market has been subject to hyperinflation where certain cards have skyrocketed in value making them the must-have for both collectors & investors. The most expensive cards feature the likeness of baseball legends like Mike Trout and Honus Wagner, making them prime targets for theft. Due to the amount of money buyers are willing to spend on these very popular collectibles they have become a target for theft throughout the hobby.

Effects of Theft

Instances like the $2 million heist in Dallas and other high-profile thefts have shined a light on sports card hobby crime. Both of these events serve as a vivid warning sign that greater security is a must in order to protect them.

Role of Anticipated Market Collapse

It should be noted that there are forecasts in the sports card industry suggesting a potential market crash by 2024. And such forecasts, if they come true could lead to a possible rise in theft as people take advantage of the market before it goes down.

Safeguarding Your Collection

Collectors are urged to secure storage solutions like safes, glass display cases with locks, and monitored vaults for their valuable collections. Those measures can help ward off potential thieves and give collectors peace of mind.

Insurance Coverage

Collectible sports cards should be covered by a comprehensive insurance policy. Insurance can help provide financial protection and make it easier to recover or replace stolen cards in the event they are damaged, providing collectors with a safety net from potential loss.

Vigilance at Events and Shows

Collectors must always use caution and keep an eye on their cards when attending car shows and events where they may be displaying more valuable merchandise. Be extremely aware and smart with your surroundings, doing everything in your power to make sure not only that the theft of cards from you is impossible but also making it difficult for those considering trying.

In the End

As great as the sports card hobby is, one of its risks still includes thievery. Sports card values keep climbing and collectors must be on the ready because they are very much in style, making a target of unscrupulous individuals out to filch your wealth. Collectors can take measures to protect themselves, such as obtaining insurance coverage and implementing security protocols that decrease the possibility of theft occurring while maintaining their place in an ever-growing sports card community.