In a world dominated by ever-changing trends and digital diversions, the revival of sports card collecting has become a powerful reminder of the timeless joy found in nostalgia and connection. Decades after legends like Mickey Mantle, Joe DiMaggio, and Hank Aaron graced packs pulled from neighborhood corner stores, their legacy remains alive. Today, those icons are joined by modern superstars in a thriving market that bridges generations.
The resurgence of this beloved hobby gained momentum during the COVID-19 pandemic when people sought comfort and familiarity amid global uncertainty. “The kind of cool thing is, people have found the passion again,” said collector Mike Wilcott, a sentiment echoed by collectors everywhere.
Card shops have since become hubs of activity, with owners witnessing unprecedented growth in sales and foot traffic. Eric Burk, owner of Burks Sportscards in Decatur, Illinois, described the emotional pull of collecting: “A lot of people want some type of memory from their past, along with living in today and going forward, or to pass down.” For many, cards are more than collectibles—they are mementos of personal and shared history.
The reasons behind this explosion in popularity vary widely. Some collectors are driven by nostalgia, revisiting the thrill of childhood discoveries. Others see the hobby as a strategic investment, with the market for rare and graded cards continuing to grow. What unites these groups is a shared passion for the stories that sports cards tell—both about the players they feature and the collectors themselves.
Shops like Burk’s have found their customer base expanding. Young fans flock to chase cards of modern greats like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and Ronald Acuña Jr., while seasoned collectors seek iconic names like Mantle and Hank Aaron. The blend of old and new keeps the hobby vibrant, appealing to a wide spectrum of enthusiasts.
Drew Allen, owner of Champaign Sports Cards, believes the camaraderie of collecting is what makes the hobby special. “We see people with smiles on their faces daily,” Allen said, emphasizing the emotional connections that go far beyond the cards themselves. Collectors bond over shared memories, cherished finds, and the simple joy of opening a fresh pack.
Allen’s observation highlights a deeper truth: card collecting is more than a financial or artistic endeavor. It’s about creating moments. “The enjoyment for the kids opening up a pack, or the enjoyment of somebody messaging me later about a card they got—those are the moments that are timeless,” said Burk. These experiences capture the heart of the hobby and explain its remarkable staying power.
The sports card market is booming, with projections for the Global Sports Card Trading Market to surpass $767 million by 2028. Whether it’s individual packs, boxes, or professionally graded slabs, the industry’s momentum shows no signs of slowing.
This resurgence thrives on its ability to appeal to both veteran collectors and newcomers. Shops have worked to maintain the charm of vintage collecting while introducing modern designs and stars to attract a younger audience. The result is a dynamic and inclusive community that reflects the evolution of the hobby while honoring its roots.
For many collectors, the cards are more than just items—they’re pieces of history. Each one tells a story, whether it’s a record-breaking season, an unforgettable moment, or a personal memory tied to a player. The continued demand for these stories ensures that sports card collecting will remain relevant for generations to come.
As Drew Allen aptly put it, “Collecting, I think, will stand the test of time.” The enduring appeal of sports cards lies not only in their value but in the emotions they evoke, the connections they foster, and the joy they bring to collectors of all ages. In a world that often feels fleeting, sports cards offer something rare: a lasting sense of wonder.
