An extremely popular hobby the world over, collecting sports cards such as football cards, baseball cards and countless other types of card usually begins in childhood for most collectors and often develops into a lifelong pursuit. The sports card industry has developed into a global business worth billions of dollars.

There are many reasons why people collect the cards. For some it is an interesting hobby and enjoyable pastime while others take it very seriously and are looking for a commercial investment. Let us take a look at some of the more common reasons for people to collect sports cards.

1. The Avid Fan – Usually people are huge fans of a particular team and personality or superstar. They want to identify with that person and show that they support them and follow them. They have an idol and like to demonstrate their support to everyone.

2. Memorable Moments – Sports cards can capture great moments in sport and provide memorabilia and important records of special events. They depict all those nostalgic flash backs to exciting times, record-breaking runs, famous slam dunks and championships that were won.

3. A Stronger Involvement – through sports cards a collector can feel more intimately involved and be part of their sport. They can have a stronger tie with their heroes by having that signature on the card. A collector can become very knowledgeable about their sport by absorbing all the information and technical data that comes on the cards and becoming a true enthusiast.

4. Make Friends – Sport card collectors have great opportunities to meet others with similar interests and enthusiasm for the particular sport or sport-star. Large networks of supporters meet to hold swap sessions and mix with like minded people. This provides an excellent opportunity for beginner collectors to grow their knowledge and expand their collection.

5. Make Money – The sports card market is now a huge industry and it is quite possible to make some money with some serious effort and the right knowledge. There are a growing number of sports forums, collectibles sites and sports auctions coming online and this is becoming a fast growing area.

There have been many noted items which have been sold for thousands of dollars. Very rare pieces of memorabilia such as a particular baseball that that was used in a momentous match and a soccer shirt worn by a great player have been sold for enormous amounts. However, there are ongoing auctions where other items with lesser value are continually bought and sold and there plenty of opportunities to trade in this market.

To fetch a good price in the market a sports card needs to be in perfect condition and reasonably rare. By buying limited editions sports cards you will have a better chance of getting a higher price. Enthusiasts really enjoy these exclusive cards and they will offer a larger return on an investment. The value of cards which have serial numbers or are specially autographed will be hold more value and make them attractive item for any collector.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter recently sold his old football cards to a collector for a nice profit. His son purchased sports cards to give to his brother as a gift.

Category: Business
Keywords: football cards,sports cards