Over the decades I have collected a great many things, but one that I keep returning to is trading cards.
From NRL footy cards, and then Star Wars to the multi-box hits of current cards with chase, autograph, relic sub-sets available, the hobby has evolved dramatically in the last two decades.
The appeal of trading cards to me include:
* they are easy to store,
* they are finite, so you can aim to complete a set,
* authentic, at a time when so many collectables are mass produced, cards are still relatively limited items, with no later reprints,
* a range of tastes and fields are covered (sports are still popular, and so many non-sports are issued),
* they are immensely collectable … obviously
So if you are interested in this hobby, then here are a few things that I have learnt, that I am happy to share.
Do it for the love of the hobby, not as an investment.
It is always nice when you discover that a card you have is worth a bit of cash, but if you approach the hobby as simply a way of making money, you risk losing money and not enjoying it.
Know your material
Research any release you are buying. Know what the rare cards are, know how big the sets are. Are you aiming for a Master set, or just characters/actors that you like? do you want the autographs, relic and sketch cards as some sets will have all three.
Don’t overspend
With unlimited money this is hardly a hobby, and just a shopping expedition. If you don’t have unlimited cash, then get the more valuable, or bargain cards early, then see how you go completing your sets. Limiting yourself you just the base and basic chase sets can be as much fun collecting as having the money to collect the high end, limited run cards
Care for your collection
As tempting as it may be to display your cards in a hanging frame, do ensure that they are not in direct sunlight, or you may find that the vibrant colours, or valuable signatures start to become less so
Have fun
This hobby should be fun, otherwise why do it?