What are the top 12 tips you need to know before you attend your next card show?

Image: NSCC 2023

Participating in a sports trading card show can offer collectors an exhilarating and fulfilling experience. For residents in North America, there's a high probability of finding a card show nearly every weekend within a short drive.

Whether you're engaged in buying, selling, trading, or simply browsing, these events provide a variety of activities and hours of fun for people of all ages. However, attending unprepared is not advisable. To optimize your experience and maximize your efforts, consider these 12 tips you need to know before attending your next card show:

1. Plan Ahead! Plan Ahead! Plan Ahead

Take a few minutes before the next card show to get the lay of the land. This will help you save valuable time before you get to the show. Research the card show in advance, including the participating vendors, number of tables, special autograph guests, keynote speeches and any scheduled events or activities. Having a plan will help you prioritize your time and focus on the aspects of the show that interest you the most. You’ll only have a few hours to get through the show so make every second count!

2. Have your price comp technology ready

We all want to know what the last comps of a specific card are. Because there are so many variables in pricing a card, you need to be prepared. Put together a wish list of the cards or sealed hobby boxes you’re seeking and have the comps jotted down. You can use websites like 130point.com to easily check for the latest eBay comps. Waxstat is a free pricing tool to find the market rate of all things sealed like hobby boxes, cases, blaster boxes, megas boxes, and cello packs to name a few. You can quickly search or a scan a UPC on Waxstat to find the market rate of 2023 Panini Phoenix Football Hobby Box or 2024 Topps Series Baseball Jumbo Box.  Either website will allow you to create more leverage when negotiating pricing of the stuff you want.

3. Have your Digital AI Grading App ready to go

Most of the cards you’ll see at the show will be raw. What does “raw” mean in the trading card world? Raw is the condition of a card that has been pulled from a pack or wax box such as a 2022-23 Panini Flawless Basketball Hobby Box, and it has not been graded. Because the card’s value can change based on its condition, it’s wise to have the power of Card Boss. It’s a fast, accurate AI grading solution available for any smart phone. You can scan your card using the Card Boss app and within a short period of time, the Card Boss’s Artificial Intelligence will give you a grade based on four sub-grades: edges, centering, corners and surfaces. From there, you can make a decision as to whether to buy, hold or trade.

4. Set a Budget

We all get carried away! Establish a budget for the card show and stick to it. What may be better is to just bring cash and leave your credit and debit cards at home. There’s so many cool things to buy at a card show, so stay disciplined with a list.

5. Bring Cash

Cash is always the best method of payment, but many dealers are accepting digital payments such as Paypal, Zelle or Venmo. Bring a mix of cash and payment options for flexibility.

6. Wear Comfortable Clothes

Card shows can involve a lot of walking and browsing, so wear comfortable clothing and footwear. We’re there to buy, sell and trade our cards in the limited time that a show may be open, so comfort is greater than style in most cases. Leave the fancy kicks at home - nobody will care as much as you think.

7. Bring a Bag or Backpack

You won’t find many opportunities to buy or find a bag at the card show, so bring your own. I like bringing my backpack and storing my checklists, slabs, snacks, drinks and raw cards.

8. Arrive Early

Get there early! You’ll find the best inventory and maybe win a door prize for being an early bird. Some shows, like the Front Row Card Show will run raffles and door prizes for those that get there early, so show up early!

9. Network with other buyers and sellers

Network!  Network!  Network!  Your next favorite card could be a conversation away. I’ve seen people hand out cards or hold up signs showing which cards they’re chasing. It sounds silly, but it’s an effective way to find that next card for your personal collection.

10. Inspect your Cards before and after you buy

When considering a purchase, inspect the condition of the cards carefully. Don't hesitate to ask the seller questions about the card's condition and authenticity. Use Card Boss to help you find those little blemishes that can take your card down from a gem mint 10 to a 9.

11. Be Open to Trades

Trading can be a fun way to enhance your collection while connecting with other collectors.  Trading is also very important when you may not have enough liquid funds to acquire that next grail.

12. Have Fun and Share your collection

Don’t forget to have fun! A card show is not always about leveling up with that next Kobe or Jordan or adding a box of 2020 Panini Prizm Football or 2018 Topps Update Series Baseball. It’s about having fun, meeting new people and enjoying this awesome world we call The Hobby.

AI Innovation Takes Center Stage at the National Sports Collectors Convention 2023

The show floor of the National Sports Collectors Convention 2023 in Rosemont, IL

Attending the National Sports Collectors Convention (@NSCC) in Chicago, IL was an exhilarating experience beyond words. This year marked a significant milestone for us, as it was our debut at the event, and what an event it was! The 2023 National Sports Collectors Convention shattered all previous records, emerging as the largest and most attended show in history.

From the moment our team got there, the energy in the air was palpable. Enthusiastic collectors, seasoned veterans, and curious newcomers thronged the aisles, eager to explore the latest trends and technologies in the world of sports card collecting. For Card Boss, it was an incredible opportunity to introduce our cutting-edge AI grading system to a wide audience for the very first time.

The response was nothing short of spectacular. Collectors were intrigued by the notion of AI-driven card grading, and they were excited to witness firsthand how our technology meticulously assessed the condition of their prized cards. The words we kept hearing from attendees were: “impressed” and “excited” about the potential to revolutionize card grading.

Our team not only showcased our technology but also engaged in conversations with collectors, discussing the intricacies of AI grading and how it could enhance the overall collecting experience. Witnessing the genuine enthusiasm and interest in our innovation was incredibly fulfilling.

As the curtains closed on the National Sports Collectors Convention 2023, we reflected on the whirlwind of interactions, discussions, and connections we had made. Attending the largest show in history had been an unforgettable journey, solidifying Card Boss's commitment to pushing the boundaries of card grading technology. We left Chicago with a sense of accomplishment, eager to continue refining our AI systems and looking forward to the next chapter in the evolving world of sports card collecting.

Celebrate Father’s Day with Card Boss

Celebrate this Father’s Day with Card Boss.

This Father's Day, finding meaningful ways to connect with our children can be a challenge.

However, we've discovered that trading cards offer a unique opportunity for parents and children to bond on a deeper level, fostering communication, teamwork, and shared excitement.

Getting involved in #thehobby together not only ignites a passion for collecting, but encourages critical thinking skills as children research, learn, and strategize.

Whether it's exploring the historical significance of sports cards, discovering the enchanting lore of fantasy cards, or delving into the intricate details of trading card games, the possibilities are endless.

Engaging with trading cards allows parents to enter their child's world, taking an active interest in their hobbies and interests. By participating in card trading sessions, parents and children can learn valuable negotiation skills and practice decision-making together. These experiences provide a safe space for open dialogue, fostering trust and strengthening the parent-child bond.

Trading cards cultivate a sense of community. Attending conventions, local meetups, or joining online communities centered around trading cards opens up opportunities for families to engage with like-minded individuals, forming connections and friendships that transcend generational boundaries.

The beauty of trading cards lies in their versatility. Whether you're unwrapping packs of cards together, engaging in friendly competitions, or collaborating on building card collections, every experience becomes a treasured memory etched in the heart.

So, why not embrace the world of trading cards and embark on a delightful journey with your children? Together, we can unlock the power of trading cards, forging unbreakable family bonds and creating a lifetime of cherished moments.

This Father's Day, #cardboss is celebrating by offering a special Father's Day Welcome Bundle: 20 cards for $49.99. It's a great gift for dad. If you are a dad, it's a great gift for the family to jump into the amazing world of card trading and card grading.

AI’s take on trading card collecting

This post was written entirely by AI. Card Boss is so confident in the future of AI technology and its impact on the trading card industry, we’re letting AI do all the talking. We asked AI how trading card collecting can be an investment opportunity.

Trading card collecting has been a hobby for many people for decades, but it has recently gained popularity as a lucrative investment opportunity. Many rare and vintage cards have seen significant price increases, with some even surpassing the value of traditional investments like stocks and real estate. Here are some reasons why investing in trading card collecting can be a smart financial move.

Firstly, trading cards are a tangible asset that can hold value over time. Unlike stocks or cryptocurrency, trading cards are physical items that can be stored and displayed. As a result, the condition of the card and its rarity can greatly impact its value, leading to potential appreciation in value over time. For example, a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sold for $5.2 million in January 2021, making it the most expensive sports card ever sold.

Secondly, the demand for rare and vintage cards continues to grow, especially among younger generations. Many people who grew up collecting cards in the 90s and 2000s are now adults with disposable income, and they are willing to pay a premium for nostalgic items. Additionally, social media has made it easier for collectors to connect with each other and share their collections, further fueling demand.

Lastly, the market for trading cards is relatively untapped compared to other investments, meaning that there is potential for significant growth. As more people become aware of the potential value of rare cards, the demand and price will likely continue to rise.

Of course, like any investment, there are risks involved with trading card collecting. The market can be volatile, and there is always the possibility of a bubble bursting or the value of certain cards declining. However, for those who are willing to do their research and make informed decisions, trading card collecting can be a lucrative and enjoyable investment opportunity.

AI’s take on the NFL Draft’s impact on card value

This post was written entirely by AI. Card Boss is so confident in the future of AI technology and its impact on the trading card industry, we’re letting AI do all the talking. We asked AI about NFL trading cards that increased in value following the NFL Draft.

NFL trading cards have long been a popular collectible for sports fans and collectors alike. Each year, card companies release new sets of cards featuring the latest NFL players, and collectors eagerly anticipate the chance to get their hands on the hottest rookie cards. However, not all cards are created equal, and some increase in value more than others. In the last decade, there have been several NFL trading cards that have increased in value following the NFL draft.

One of the most notable examples is the 2017 Panini Prizm Patrick Mahomes rookie card. Mahomes was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round of the 2017 draft, and his rookie season was nothing short of spectacular. He led the Chiefs to the playoffs and was named the NFL MVP, and his rookie card quickly became one of the most sought-after cards on the market. Today, the card is worth thousands of dollars and is considered one of the most valuable NFL trading cards in recent memory.

Another example is the 2012 Topps Russell Wilson rookie card. Wilson was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 draft, and while he wasn't expected to be a star right away, he quickly proved his doubters wrong. He led the Seahawks to the playoffs in his rookie season and went on to win a Super Bowl in 2014. Today, his rookie card is worth hundreds of dollars and is a favorite among collectors.

Other NFL trading cards that have increased in value following the draft include the 2018 Panini Contenders Saquon Barkley rookie card and the 2019 Panini Prizm Kyler Murray rookie card. Both players were selected in the first round of their respective drafts and have already established themselves as stars in the league.

In conclusion, the NFL draft is always an exciting time for football fans and collectors alike. It presents an opportunity to get a glimpse of the future stars of the league and invest in their potential. While not every rookie card will increase in value, there are always a few gems that will become valuable collectibles in the years to come.

AI’s take on popular trading cards

This post was written entirely by AI. Card Boss is so confident in the future of AI technology and its impact on the trading card industry, we’re letting AI do all the talking. We asked AI about popular sports trading cards.

Sports trading cards continue to be a hot commodity in 2023, with collectors and fans clamoring for the latest and greatest cards. Here are some of the most popular sports trading cards of the year:

1. Basketball Trading Cards - With the NBA season in full swing, basketball trading cards remain a popular choice among collectors. Cards featuring the league's top players, such as LeBron James and Steph Curry, are particularly sought after.

2. Football Trading Cards - As the most popular sport in the United States, football trading cards remain a staple of the sports card market. From rookie cards to autographed memorabilia, football fans have a wide variety of options to choose from.

3. Baseball Trading Cards - America's favorite pastime continues to be a popular choice for collectors, with classic cards from legendary players like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle fetching top dollar at auctions.

4. Soccer Trading Cards - As the world's most popular sport, soccer trading cards have seen a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly in countries like Europe and South America. Cards featuring international stars like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are particularly popular.

5. Hockey Trading Cards - While not as popular as some other sports, hockey trading cards have a dedicated following among fans, particularly in Canada and the northern United States. Cards featuring legends like Wayne Gretzky and current stars like Connor McDavid are always in demand.

Overall, sports trading cards remain a popular choice among collectors and fans alike in 2023, with a wide variety of sports and players to choose from. Whether you're a fan of basketball, football, baseball, soccer, or hockey, there is sure to be a trading card set that appeals to your interests.

The State of Trading

This post was written entirely by AI. Card Boss is so confident in the future of AI technology and it’s impact on the trading card industry, we’re letting AI do all the talking. We asked AI to provide an update on the state of baseball trading cards in 2023.

As of 2023, the state of card grading for baseball trading cards remains strong, with a continued trend towards utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) grading technology. In recent years, AI grading has become increasingly popular among collectors and sellers, as it offers a more objective, efficient, and accurate way to evaluate the quality of trading cards.

One of the biggest changes in the world of card grading has been the rise of third-party grading companies. These companies specialize in evaluating and grading trading cards, providing a trusted and standardized system of assessing the quality and condition of cards. This has helped to create a more transparent and fair marketplace for buyers and sellers, particularly in the online space.

Another major development in card grading has been the increasing use of technology, particularly AI grading. This technology utilizes machine learning algorithms to analyze and grade cards based on a set of pre-defined criteria, such as centering, surface quality, and corner condition. This has helped to reduce the potential for human error and subjectivity in the grading process, leading to more consistent and accurate evaluations.

As the popularity of AI grading continues to grow, we can expect to see more companies adopting this technology in the coming years. Additionally, there may be further developments in the use of blockchain technology for card grading, providing an even more secure and tamper-proof system of authentication.

Overall, the state of card grading for baseball trading cards in 2023 is one of continued growth and innovation, with a focus on increasing transparency, objectivity, and efficiency in the grading process. Whether you are a collector, seller, or investor, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in card grading is essential for making informed decisions and getting the most out of your investments.

Benefits of AI Grading

This blog post was written entirely by AI. Card Boss believes so strongly that AI grading for trading cards is the future of the industry, we’re letting AI do all the talking.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an increasingly popular tool in the world of trading cards, particularly in the process of grading them. AI grading is a system that utilizes machine learning algorithms to assess the quality of trading cards, providing a more objective and accurate evaluation than traditional methods. Here are some of the benefits of using AI grading for trading cards:

1. Consistency and Objectivity: One of the main advantages of AI grading is that it provides consistent and objective results. AI algorithms are programmed to analyze a trading card based on a set of pre-defined criteria, such as the condition of the corners, centering, and surface quality. This eliminates the potential for human error and subjectivity in the grading process, which can vary from one grader to another.

2. Faster and More Efficient: Another benefit of AI grading is its speed and efficiency. Traditional grading methods can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring a significant amount of manual labor and expertise. With AI grading, the process can be automated, allowing for a faster and more efficient evaluation of a large number of trading cards.

3. Increased Accuracy: AI grading is also more accurate than traditional methods. The algorithms are trained on large datasets of trading cards, allowing them to identify even the slightest imperfections or variations in quality. This leads to more precise and detailed grading reports, which can be beneficial for both buyers and sellers.

4. Cost-Effective: AI grading can also be more cost-effective than traditional grading methods. With the automation of the process, there is less need for manual labor and expertise, which can significantly reduce the cost of grading a large number of cards.

Overall, AI grading has revolutionized the trading card industry, providing a more objective, efficient, and accurate way to evaluate the quality of cards. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more benefits and improvements in the grading process.