The world of card grading experienced a whirlwind of activity in February, as collectors and investors eagerly submitted over 1.6 million cards for authentication. This surge marked a substantial 25% increase compared to the same period last year, indicating a growing interest in the trading card market.
While the numbers dipped slightly from the previous month, the enthusiasm among collectors remained palpable. The breakdown between sports cards and Trading Card Games (TCG) painted a picture of the market’s preferences, with sports cards claiming a majority share of 55.5%. The enduring popularity of sports cards was evident as enthusiasts continued to flock to grading companies to authenticate their prized possessions.
Leading the charge in card grading volume was the renowned grading entity PSA, which processed a staggering 1.24 million cards in February. Among the various sports categories, baseball cards emerged as the frontrunners, with over 293,000 cards making their way through the grading process. The spotlight, however, was firmly fixed on two athletes – Shohei Ohtani and CJ Stroud – whose cards dominated the grading charts.
Shohei Ohtani, known for his exceptional versatility on the baseball field, saw a surge in card submissions following his transition to the Dodgers. PSA alone handled an impressive 26,800 cards featuring the Japanese star, highlighting his immense popularity among collectors. On the other hand, CJ Stroud, the rising star of the NFL, made waves with 16,400 cards graded by PSA, signaling a growing demand for his memorabilia in the market.
The grading frenzy extended beyond PSA, as other prominent grading companies like SGC witnessed a significant influx of modern cards from the 2023 sports season. The graded player roster at SGC featured a mix of legends and budding stars, with icons like Michael Jordan alongside contemporary favorites Ohtani and Stroud. Similarly, ISA Grading and Beckett Grading also navigated through a substantial number of submissions, showcasing the diverse range of cards making their way through the authentication process.
One notable mention was Beckett Grading’s recognition of the 2023 Topps NOW Connor Bedard rookie sticker as its most submitted issue, underscoring the significance of new talent in driving the card grading market. The industry’s evolution was further highlighted by the growing interest in both modern and vintage sports cards, hinting at an exciting future for collectors and investors alike.
As Shohei Ohtani and CJ Stroud continue to capture the hearts of fans and collectors, their cards serve as prized possessions in a market teeming with enthusiasm and potential. The surge in card grading activity in February paints a dynamic picture of the evolving sports memorabilia landscape, where new talents and iconic figures coexist to create a vibrant and captivating hobby for enthusiasts worldwide.