News

UDs McWilliam Kicks Off Tuff Stuff's 'Ask The Execs' Series

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 calendar year has brought us in the collectibles business several important changes to the hobby landscape. Whether it was the Donruss sale, Upper Deck's new deal with the Collegiate Licensing Company or the recent announcement by Major League Baseball naming Topps as its exclusive licensing partner for 2010, the winds of change are blowing strong in the industry and those changes have prompted numerous questions.

Ruth WS bat draws top dollar

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Babe Ruth game-used bat dating to the Boston Red Sox' 1918 World Series winning season - arguably the most important piece of lumber from baseball's most iconic player - realized $537,750 at Heritage Auctions Oct. 1-2 Signature Sports Memorabilia Auction.

Mark Warsop named new CEO at Panini

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Panini Group has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, Mark Warsop, to take charge of Panini America, Inc effective immediately.

Topps Debuts One-of-One Baseball Sketch Cards

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topps has been known for offering one-of-one sketch cards in the past (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars), but now some are appearing in its baseball products.

UD, MLBPA to give away free card packs

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck, in conjunction with the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), announced its partnership to launch the first-of-its-kind “National Packtime” sampling promotion on March 6, 2010. The centerpiece of the promotion is a one-day event that will provide fans with free packs of baseball cards. Exclusive packs of “National Packtime” baseball cards will be distributed via Upper Deck’s network of baseball card specialty shops.

Judge turns down Topps� request for TRO against UD

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A New York judge has denied a request from Topps to issue a temporary restraining order that would have prevented Upper Deck from releasing its 2000 Upper Deck Series Two and O-Pee-Chee baseball products.

Starr remains a throwback hero

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The very first column I wrote (it was the October 1993 issue) focused on my prized possession: a tattered and wrinkled 1968 Topps Bart Starr card.
Less than two weeks after the publication of that column, I received a surprise in the mail that turned out to be a new prized possession: a personal letter from Starr himself.

Rivera and Pettitte added to UD autograph lineup

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Andy Pettitte and Mariano Rivera won their fifth World Championship together this year by besting Philadelphia in the Fall Classic. Now the two hurlers are joining forces with Upper Deck to sign autographs for the company’s 2010 Baseball releases. They reunite with their teammate and Upper Deck exclusive spokesman Derek Jeter on the company’s list of impressive championship baseball talent set to sign for Upper Deck in 2010.

Collectible Classics sale loaded with vintage material

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Autographs of Steve Prefontaine, Lou Gehrig, Turkey Stearns and Walter Johnson, a rare Batter-Up premium (shown), a scarce 1888 book on New York baseball and a high-quality 1938 Churchman “Boxing Personalities” set are among the highlights of Collectible Classics’ CCA25 auction, which is online now at www.auctionscc.com and closes Aug. 25.
Collectible Classics specializes in collector-friendly auctions with affordable lots. The current auction offers 284 sports and non-sport lots, with most minimum bids set at $100 or less.

Panini�s product plans clarified at trade conference

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Virtually all of the company’s representatives at last week’s Hawaii Trade Conference were the same as they’ve been the past few years. Yet in some ways, the staff on hand from Panini America seemed like first-time attendees.

Yankee Stadium auction underway

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Game-used bats, signed photos, Yankee Stadium bases and pitching rubbers, signed balls, commemorative signs – all of this and more (much more) will be auctioned by Steiner Sports. And it all surrounds the lore and legend that is the old Yankee Stadium.

Top Hobby performers of 2009

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It has been a wild season in sports with Brett Favre unretiring again and going to the Packers’ biggest rival, the Penguins wild ride to their Stanley Cup victory and another amazing season for baseball’s best hitter, Albert Pujols. With that in mind, we’re going to take a look back at some of the top performers and their impact in the sports card market.

Forecasting the RCs that will stand the test of time

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rookie cards are highly coveted in today’s sports card marketplace. Although not every “blue-chip” prospect turns into the next Hall of Famer, there is always a great deal of potential found among rookies. Speculation abounds for the top rookies of the 2008 season for all of the major sports.

Cooperstown exhibit to display 2009 WS items

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the New York Yankees celebrate their record 27th World Series championship, treasures from baseball’s most memorable moments from the 2009 postseason are being prepared for the Autumn Glory exhibit at the National
Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown.

2008-09 Upper Deck Hot Prospects Basketball

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Autograph rookie patch cards of players such as Derrick Rose, Kevin Love, Michael Beasley and O.J. Mayo will have collectors saying ‘Flame On’ this fall

Uniforms � They are Changing

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Looking for a theme to kick start a collection? Why not try collecting gridiron great in the "wrong" uniform?

Buyer Beware: 1-of-1 Cards Might Not Truly be One of a Kind

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to one-of-one cards, be prepared to see a similar "patch card" on a parallel version.

High hopes for first 2009 baseball card products

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pitchers and catchers may not be reporting for another two weeks, but the baseball season officially began in hobby shops this week with the release of the first 2009 card products from Topps and Upper Deck.

T206 Wagner Nets $1.62 Million

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's the Holy Grail of baseball cards - the T206 Wagner. Another made its mark in the sports collecting field, netting $1.62 million at Mastro's Aug. 1 sale that coincided with the running of The National.

Memory Lane Announces Winter Extravaganza Rarities Auction

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Highlights of the sale that begins Nov. 21 and ends Dec. 13 includes a run of high-grade Mickey Mantle cards from the Bruce Griggs Collection, 1909-11 T206 Piedmont Sherry Magie error card and W600 Sporting Life Eddie Plank, plus much more.

Memory Lane Auction Tops $2.7 Million

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Memory Lane made it clear that its latest auction was appealing to everyone, from the hardcore collector to the average sports junkie. Well, all of those types of bids added up to a final selling point of $2.7 million. And that "other" Wagner card didn't do too bad either – the E93 Caramel Wagner topped $215,000.

2010 Hallowed Ground Calendar Now Available for Shipping

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Celebrated American sports artist Bill Purdom has produced two historic lithographs of old and new Yankee Stadium, being made available now through his long time publisher Bill Goff of www.goodsportsart.com.

UD sponsors MLBs Players Choice Awards

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a season full of outstanding rookie performances, standouts Gordon Beckham (Chicago White Sox) and J.A. Happ (Philadelphia Phillies) were voted by their peers as tops in Major League Baseball’s 2009 freshman class. Beginning Oct. 26, the Major League Baseball Players Association and ESPN Radio’s Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic announced the winners of the 2009 Players Choice Awards for each league’s Outstanding Rookie during the first of a series of segments to be broadcast exclusively this week on the Mike & Mike in the Morning show (6 am-10 am ET). The 2009 Players Choice Awards, presented by Upper Deck, benefit the Major League Baseball Players Trust.

What is Wrong With This Hobby?

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the last few months, we at Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly have ran a series on your worst hobby experiences, your best hobby moments and another on your dream collectible. Our next series is all about change or more specificially, what you would change if you you had the power to change one element of the hobby.

Maris has Museum All of His Own in Fargo

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One of the last places you might expect a player Hall of Fame is in Fargo, N.D. But in this northern plains city, Roger Maris is treated like a king in his hometown, including a top-notch Hall of Fame museum all his own.

NBA selects Panini as exclusive trading card licensee

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New global agreement bounces Topps, Upper Deck from basketball card marketplace. The league has signed a multi-year, exclusive licensing agreement with The Panini Group, known best as a publisher of sticker products and comic books overseas. The company, headquartered in Modena, Italy, will create a new subsidiary known as Panini America to handle its domestic trading card business.

Tuff Stuff Hobby Watchdog warns of new pack searching scam

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ever since the advent of jersey cards in products, people have been there trying to beat the system while opening packs. These morally deceptive people have camped out at retailers across the country with their system, all with the goal of finding jersey and auto cards without ever opening the pack. These “pack searchers” have become some of the most hated people in the hobby, and have made buying loose retail packs for hits an unwinnable venture.

Start Trading the Vice President Candidates

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck is getting involved in the political race once again. The trading card company is producing cards of vice president candidates Joe Biden and Sarah Palin in the Presidential Predictor series.

BC Sports shuts down all store locations

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The number of sports card and memorabilia stores forced out of business by the current recession increased significantly this week. BC Sports, which began 2008 with nearly 50 sports collectible and licensed merchandise stores around the country, has closed all of its retail stores and ceased operations.

Dykstra items featured in Heritage sale

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Financially troubled Lenny Dykstra's 1986 New York Mets World Series championship trophy and ring, unclaimed after he left them with a Beverly Hills, Calif., pawn shop, now will be offered in a sports memorabilia public auction to be conducted by Heritage Auctions (www.HA.com) in Dallas, Texas and online, Oct. 1 and 2.

Exciting new products coming from McFarlane

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Very exciting news from our friends at McFarlane: Todd McFarlane has announced a new variation program called the McFarlane Collector Level. McFarlane reports the following:

Cowboys auction off old stadium relics

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Dallas Cowboys wrapped up an auction over the weekend of artifacts associated with Texas Stadium. The team will be moving into a new stadium in Arlington next season.

Madoff collection hitting the auction circuit

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fraudster Bernie Madoff’s Sports Card and Memorabilia Collection is hitting the virtual auction block later this week on Proxibid’s online auction site.

Baseball HOF Could Open Operation Bullpen Exhibit in 2010

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the most famous artifacts in the 3,000-year history of forgery, the Mother Teresa baseball, may go on display at a special Operation Bullpen exhibit being planned for next year by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y.

Sammy Baugh in high demand

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The passing of football great Slingin’ Sammy Baugh just before Christmas saddened Washington Redskins fans and those old-schoolers who love the leather-helmet football era. But the legendary Slinger’s death at age 94 also left fans with yet another empty hook to hang their collecting hats.

Ironclad Authentics to Offer Game-Used Items from Last Game at Yankee Stadium

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ironclad Authentics is offering some of the game-used items of Brian Roberts used in the final at-bat at Yankee Stadium. Auction starts Oct. 24.

Bucks Jennings breathing life into Basketball card market

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Milwaukee Bucks rookie guard, who skipped college ball by playing a year in Italy to satisfy the NBA age requirement, is all-of-a-sudden the talk of the league. Through nine games, the overall 10th pick in this year's draft is averaging 24.8 points a game, thanks in part to scoring 55 against the Golden State Warriors last Thursday.

MARQUESS GALLERY CREATES JACKIE ROBINSON COMMEMORATIVE PRINT

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Proceeds from the sale of the commemorative print will benefit the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum.

Best Of Tuff Stuff CD

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What do Muhammad Ali and Tony Hawk, collectible hockey cards, Tiger Woods memorabilia and autographs have in common? They're all represented in the recently released CD The Best of Tuff Stuff 2004-2008. Order by May 23rd to save 10% plus FREE shipping!

GetFugu, Inc. Partners with Topps for Legends of the Game baseball cards

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

GetFugu, Inc. (a mobile search tool), announced Nov. 19 that it has partnered with, Topps. Topps, the exclusive trading card of Major League Baseball, is using GetFugu’s “See It, Say It, Find It, Get It”, vision, voice and location recognition services to enhance the “Legends of the game” cards in 2009 Topps Baseball Series 1, Series 2 and Updates and Highlights.

McFarlane unveils new Collector Level Sportspicks

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While any veteran McFarlane SportsPicks collector will say we have always included "chase" or "variant" versions of existing figures before, its new Collector Level™ program is intended to raise the bar.

Gibson items to be featured in Legendary Auctions live sale

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Significant personal collections from two extremely important baseball figures will take center stage at the House of Blues on July 31 at 8:30 p.m. in Cleveland. Historically noteworthy items obtained directly from Hall of Fame pitcher Bob Gibson and from the family of 19th-century pitching sensation Bill Hoffer will be showcased in Legendary Auctions’ live auction.

Charges filed against man who faked Joba�s autograph

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Toms River, N.J. man who bears a resemblance to Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain is facing charges of theft by deception and disorderly conduct for allegedly accepting free food and signing autographs under the guise that he is the Yankees pitcher.

1927 Yanks Team-Signed Photo Nets $94,153 at SCP Auctions

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Another strong lineup of first-rate sports memorabilia and cards offered by SCP Auctions generated more than $1.75 million for its 639 lots during the January Internet auction.

$100,000 Advertising Poster Found in Estate Sale

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Who says significant "finds" don't happen any more? An estate sale in upstate New York yielded a $100,000 advertising poster for Goodwin tobacco cards. The piece will be sold in Lelands.com's May sale.

New NFL lawsuit levied by former players

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NFL Hall of Famer Elvin Bethea and five other players have sued the NFL for using their names and images for profit without their permission.

Steiner Sports Celebrates Martin Brodeur's 552 Wins

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Steiner Sports has announced an exclusive signing with goaltender Martin Brodeur, who set the NHL all-time record for wins by a goalie at 552. Collectibles from this signing will include photos, sticks, pucks, jerseys and collages.

O.J. memorabilia lands in L.A. Sherriff Department

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The footballs, jerseys and photographs that landed O.J. Simpson in prison have a new home at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

Christmas Day NBA Jerseys Available Via Auction

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fans can bid on jerseys worn by NBA players during the recent Christmas Day games. Each jersey has a unique Christmas Day patch and special tag to distinguish the event.

Bad news continues for Bears Urlacher

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Within days of a season-ending wrist injury, Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher says he was written off by an autograph and sports memorabilia company. Now Urlacher, injured Sept. 13 in a game against the Green Bay Packers, is suing Dreams, Inc. for terminating a four-year, $1.2 million contract that had him traveling the country, earning money for special appearances and signing autographs and sports memorabilia.

NFL goes pink and produces unique collectibles up for bids

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you watched any of the action from Week 4 of the 2009 NFL season, you may have thought something was wrong with the color on your television. No color issues, just the NFL gearing up to support the American Cancer Society during Breat Cancer Awareness month.

Steiner Sports Suing Cardinals Molina

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A New York sports marketing firm has sued St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina, saying he ignored their agreement to make appearances and sign autographs.

Sportskings now featuring Obama First Pitch card

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American League prevailed, 4-3, in this year’s All-star Game, but there was more on the line than home-field advantage in this year’s World Series. What came out of the game was a significant update to the First Pitch Cut Signature Insert set in Sportkings Series C – the Barack Obama First Pitch Card.

Topps Produces Sarah Palin Card

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After Upper Deck unveiled the vice president candidates in its Presidential Predictor series, Topps has now debuted its Sarah Pain card.

Hockey Cards That Won't Break the Bank

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Eight-card packs of Fleer Ultra Hockey retail for just $2.99.

Wyoming legislator nabs Yankee Stadium's final home run

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

He first identified himself as "Steve" from Colorado. However, the man who nabbed the last home run hit in fabled Yankee Stadium was Representative Steve Harshman, a Republican from Casper, Wyoming.

Auction records tumble in $10-million REA sale

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Record final prices on 19th- and early 20th-century baseball cards and memorabilia totaled a staggering $10.1 million dollars across 1,551 lots in the recently concluded Robert Edward Auction. The average lot sold for $6,545.

Dreams, Inc. enjoys healthy increase in revenues

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For the quarter, revenues rose 14.4 percent to $14.4 million. For the first nine months, total revenues increased 23.3 percent to $46.6 million, versus $37.7 million reported for the same period a year ago.

19th Hartland statue turns up after 46 years

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Hartland folks are touting this as a chance to go back in time, and given the description of the Casey Stengel Hartland Statue prototype, it’s hard to take issue with their assessment. Hartland of Ohio President Fay Halliwell recently announced the company would be producing a Hartland Statue of Casey Stengel, which is newsworthy enough, but gets a second bump by virtue of the fact that the “new” statue will be made from a near half-century old prototype.

UD Spectrum Adds Stars to Baseball Lineup

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Who doesn't want Kim Kardashian to appear next to their Albert Pujols card?

Upper Deck will produce basketball prospects set

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck may not have an NBA license for next season, but the company isn’t abandoning the basketball card market. Information was sent to dealers last week for 2009-10 Upper Deck Draft Edition Basketball. The product is scheduled to feature autographs from the top prospects of next season.

Ozzie Smith restaurant to hold closing auction

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the end, fans will benefit from the restaurant war between Ozzie Smith and Albert Pujols in St. Louis. Smith’s business, Ozzie’s Restaurant & Sports Bar, has closed its doors and is auctioning off its contents, including the sports memorabilia on its walls.

Huggins & Scott Offers New Buyer's Premium Concept in Upcoming Sale

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The new year will start with a bang for Maryland-based Huggins and Scott Auctions. Another 300-page, full-color catalog featuring 1,309 lots of sports and non-sports cards and memorabilia will be presented to thousands of bidders from around the world.

A Star Is Born: Tony Romo among the hobby elite

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Football League has been known for its unpredictability ever since Broadway Joe made long shots fashionable back in Super Bowl III. Since that time, a number of teams have shocked fans with memorable upsets for the ages. But while Namath’s heroics helped put the Davids of the world in the forefront and forced the Goliaths into the the background, the list of individual players who have continued that upset-minded tradition is a short one.

Condition rules are different for game-used bats

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a major auction house auction in 2007, a 1980-83 game-used bat of Hall of Famer Robin Yount sold for $690. Since then Yount bats from that same labeling period have sold for double that price, and at every value in between. Similar examples can easily be found related to the lumber of almost every Hall of Famer, minor star and common player throughout the years. There are a myriad of reasons for these discrepancies in value:

Hunt Auctions Unveils Lineup for FanFest Auction

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the fifth year running, Hunt Auctions, the official auctioneer of Major League Baseball’s All-Star FanFest, will host the 2009 MLB Live Auction in conjunction with Major League Baseball’s All-Star Week. The auction, scheduled for 10 a.m. CST on July 14, will feature a variety of historical baseball memorabilia, all of which will be on public display during FanFest, the interactive baseball extravaganza that runs from July 10-14 at the America’s Center in St. Louis.

Legacy Sports Rarities Kicks Off With Vintage Cards

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The first catalog auction from Legacy Sports Rarities will take place in March, featuring hundreds of lots of vintage sports cards. Legacy Rarities is run by Greg Bussineau, a familiar name in the hobby.

Tristar announces partnership with ESPN Radio affiliate

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

TRISTAR Productions announced a new partnership with ESPN 97.5 FM in Houston. With this newly-signed agreement, the TRISTAR Collectors Corner radio show’s new home will be on Houston’s ESPN affiliate, with TRISTAR executives Jeff Rosenberg and Bobby Mintz joining Carl Dukes regularly on his “Put Up Your Dukes” show on weekday afternoons to talk about sports and collectibles. Rosenberg and Mintz also will take calls from listeners interested in the value of collectible items they have at home and talk about the many professional athletes who work with TRISTAR.

Brett Favre Breaking Out In The Big Apple

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NFL season has just begun, but Brett Favre is already a hit on Broadway.

On the day he was dealt to the Jets, NFLShop.com reportedly sold 6,500 Favre jerseys, smashing its previous single-day record for one player (900 Tony Romo jerseys were sold on Nov. 11, 2007).

Collect.com Auctions in Kansas City This Weekend

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Heading to the GTSM Show in Kansas City this weekend? If you're also looking to consign items to an auction house while you're there, Collect.com Auctions will be attending and is currently taking appointments.

Simply Mauer-velous

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Joe Mauer has already won two batting titles, a Gold Glove, and two Silver Sluggers. He’s a four-time All-Star and has twice been featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated. But it took his current run at .400 for collectors outside of the Twin Cities to take notice. And despite the fact that Minnesotans have been following Mauer since long before he cut his wisdom teeth, it wasn’t until the 2009 season for them to contemplate his place alongside the most revered Twin of them all.

NBA Rookie Initiation

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NBA's 2008 class recently got a behind-the-scenes look in the world of trading cards. However, many players were already familiar with collecting – and it showed.

Topps Airs 'Back on Topps' Online Show

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In one of the first major moves by Michael Eisner at Topps, the company begins its entertainment experience with a new show: Back on Topps starring the Sklar brothers and a host of athlete appearances and references.

A closer look at rising star Hanley Ramirez

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

According to numerous sources including the Boston Herald, the Red Sox approached Florida last November to see if they could put together a package of young players to land Hanley Ramirez. This, of course, was the same Hanley Ramirez they traded to the Marlins in a multi-player deal just three years earlier. While Boston did receive right-hander Josh Beckett and third baseman Mike Lowell in exchange for Ramirez, and the team went on to win a World Series two seasons later, teams don’t typically look to reacquire a player they traded away.

Contenders Brand Debuts For Donruss Baseball

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss will ship its fourth and final baseball release for the 2008 season – Playoff Contenders Baseball – on Feb. 4.

Upper Deck Looks to Supply Troops with 1 Milion Packs of Cards

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kicking off on Veteran's Day, Upper Deck, along with Operation Gratitiude, is hoping collectors, dealers and other manufactures help reach a goal of 1 million packs of cards to troops by next year. The manufacturer helped kick it off by donating 100,000 packs.

Larry Fitzgerald Gets a View From the Other Side

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Cardinals wide receiver has a been a collector for years, and now he's getting a glimpse of life from the other side of the autograph ropes.

Kids will be target audience for Topps Attax Baseball

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The latest attempt by Topps to garner a larger share of the kids audience won’t be through a baseball card set, but rather a baseball card game

Dreams Inc./Mounted Memories Bring Famous Mets Teams Together

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

November show will bring together Mets teams from 1962, 1969 and 1986.

Upper Deck, LeBron James Host Basketball Clinic

Mon, 08 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's not every day an Olympic gold medalist conducts a free clinic for kids, much less on the rooftop of a card manufacturer;'s headquarters. But LeBron James did, and Upper Deck was only proud to host for the company spokesman.

NFL POD promotio celebrated with free signings

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the NFL Player of the Day hobby shop retail promotion, three hobby shops have been selected by trading card licensees Panini America, Topps and Upper Deck, to host a free autograph session with an NFL player in their store during October.

MLB suing Donruss over trademark infrigement

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Major League Baseball Properties filed suit last week against Donruss, saying the company’s recently released baseball card sets depict certain retired major leaguers and current minor league players in uniforms that feature visible and identifiable logos that are trademarks of MLB Properties.

Hunt Readies for Louisville Auction No. 5

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There's nothing grander than a live auction – and Hunt Auctions' sale at Louisville Slugger ranks among the best of them all. Check out the latest preview that includes Babe Ruth’s 1938 Brooklyn Dodgers road uniform, Rocky Graziano’s 1947 World Middleweight Championship belt and much, much more.

Donruss creates exclusive Super Bowl set

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss has created a 440-card Super Bowl edition factory set that will be sold at the NFL Experience and Donruss Super Bowl Card Show.

Card Licensing Deals Examined in NFLPA Class Action Lawsuit

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Former NFL players aren't happy with their benefits, which include royalties for trading cads and video games. The result: a class-action suit against the NFL Player's Association.

18 Fans Arrested For Stealing At Final Yankee Game

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

AP NEW YORK – New York City police say they arrested more than a dozen people for stealing pieces of Yankee Stadium during the 85-year-old ballpark's final game.

Louisville Slugger bats commemorate company's anniversary

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

All bats used throughout the 2009 MLB season by Louisville Slugger will contain a special logo commemorating Louisville Slugger’s 125-year anniversary.

Collectors rave about upcomingTuff Stuffs online price guides

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the past 5 months (in our underground, secret bunker) the SCF staff have been coming up with the concept/developing an OPG that is accurate and timely. In the past 30 days, dozens of SCF staff have been volunteering their time inputting all the set data into the database. We will be inputting pricing soon and officially launching our SCF OPG Beta at The Nationals Sports Collectors Convention on 29 July in Cleveland.

October's Best

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's been three decades since Reggie Jackson transformed into Mr. October, yet his collectibles remain some of the most coveted related to the Fall Classic.

Baseball Player Hot Zone

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tim Lincecum and David Price are seeing their card values jump with this success on the mound this year.

Topps set to release Bowman �48 NBA Basketball set

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topps is now taking orders for its 2009-10 Bowman ’48 NBA Basketball set that will be a hobby exclusive commemorating the first major basketball card set ever produced.

Photo File launches new line for NBA Playoffs

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Photo File has launched their new “In The Spotlight” collection for the NBA playoffs. Each photo depicts a superstar doing what he does best in vibrant colors with the rest of the image in black & white.

Upper Deck Issues Commemorative Set of Kobe

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Playing off his world-wide appeal after the Olympics, Upper Deck is honoring its basketball spokesman with a commemorative set in 2008-09 MVP Basketball.

Jeter commemoratives big hit for Photo File Inc.

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Photo File, Inc. reported stronger than expected sales for their higher-priced items commemorating Derek Jeter’s historic 2,722nd hit.

Freedom Collection of rare cards anchors October Heritage Auction

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A private collector with a concentration in rare and pristine Hall of Fame baseball cards has chosen Heritage Auction Galleries’ Oct. 1 Signature® Sports Auction to present 40 of the rarest and most valuable specimens to the collecting hobby.

Only Bowman Gem-Mint 10 George Mikan RC up for bids

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A mint condition 1948 Bowman George Mikan rookie card, the only one ever to be professionally graded as a Gem Mint 10, is expected to set the sports memorabilia industry on fire when it hits the auction block December 12th. The card, authenticated by Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) has been consigned to Southern California-based Memory Lane Inc’s Hidden Treasures Auction with a minimum bid of $50,000.

Dreams Inc. to launch 'Summer Spectacular' show

Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Summer Spectacular show to bridge the gap between Sun-Times events

Retailers Pleased With Demand for First 2009 Baseball Sets

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hobby retailers who were coming off a disappointing end to 2008 weren’t sure what kind of response their customers would have to the first baseball card products for the coming season. Three weeks after the first of the 2009 products hit the market, many retailers say they’re quite happy with the demand from customers.

FansEdge Offering a Sports Spectacular

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Smack dab in the middle of the summer sun will be the new FansEdge Sports Spectacular put on by Mounted Memories. Along with many great autograph guests will be something quirky called “Hobby Bailout – Collector’s Stimulus Plan.”

George Brett HOF Signed Bat, Game-Used Uniform Previewed at Collect.com Auctions

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some great memorabilia has already been consigned for the first auction, including items from the personal collection of George Brett. In a video preview below with auction director Steve Bloedow, we'll take a look at some of the items, including a Hall of Fame signed bat with signatures of all of the living HOF members and a game-used jersey.

ESPNs Simmons takes in first National Convention

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Weren't able to make the trip to Cleveland last week to take in this year's National Sports Collectors Convention? Me neither. Disappointed with Tuff Stuff's coverage (or lack thereof, technical issues forced us to break our promise of live coverage) of the hobby's biggest event. Me too. But not to fear, as Tuff Stuff and ESPN's Bill Simmons have got you covered. The outstanding writer gives his thoughts and better yet, takes hundreds of photos that will leave you feeling like you were in Cleveland as well.

Collecting and the Law: Q&A with Jock Smith

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As I waited in line to get Jim Taylor’s signature at the 2008 National Convention in Chicago, I couldn’t help but notice a man who stood next to me who had his hands full of memorabilia to get signed and a smile on his face from ear to ear.

To me, he looked like your everyday, average collector who is thrilled to meet some of his heroes at a card show. But what you couldn’t tell from looking at Jock Smith is that he was one of our nation’s most successful lawyers, and a man who started collecting about 25 years ago. In that time, he had amassed one of the largest and most significant game-used jersey collections in the hobby.

MLBPA to Open Merchandise Store at Citi Field

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The new home of the New York Mets will also house a new merchandise store run by the Major League Players Association and Aramark.

Mastro Auction Lineup Starts With Classic Collector Sale

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Single-signed Ty Cobb ball, Babe Ruth signed ball, high-grade vintage cards and memorabilia all reside in sale that begins Oct. 13 and ends Oct. 30.

Avoid Collecting Pitfalls

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly partner, Sports Card Forum, offers some collecting advice.

Coming Soon: UDs Draft Edition Basketball

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck will release an impressive Draft Edition Basketball trading card set in July, one in which many of this year’s top lottery picks will be appearing complete with autographed inserts. Several of the top players selected during the 2009 NBA Draft will be featured in the set including James Harden, the No. 3 pick overall; Ricky Rubio, No. 5; Jonny Flynn, No. 6; and Stephen Curry, No. 7.

Legendary Auctions Takes over controls of Mastro

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary Auctions, a newly formed Sports and Americana auction house has announced recently it has taken possession of Mastro Auctions assets. Legendary Auctions will preside over a customer base that has been responsible for the sale of over a quarter of a billion in sales of the finest memorabilia since 1996.

Industry Leaves Trade Conference With Optimism

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition in Florida wrapped up this week, and many of the attendees felt they at least had reasons for hope after the past 12 months of disarray. And while the economic downturn was noticeable in lack of attendees, those who attended felt ground was made with manufacturers and distributors.

Pennsylvania dealer sued for selling fake autographs

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 84-year-old owner of a memorabilia store in Pennsylvania has been sued by two of his customers for allegedly selling them fake autographs.

UD Rolls out one last Exquisite hoops product

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Upper Deck released 2003-04 NBA Exquisite, the trading card market was forever changed. Never before had collectors seen innovative cards packing this much quality which is one of the reasons why a single pack of that product routinely sells for more than $3,000. On Sept. 21, Upper Deck announced that it will be releasing the company’s final NBA Exquisite set ever later this month. Upper Deck’s 2009-10 NBA Exquisite set will arrive in stores on Sept. 30.

Dreams Inc partners with NCAA on commerce website

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dreams, Inc. one of the leaders in the licensed sports products industry, announced that is has partnered with NCAA Football, the collective voice of college football, to launch the organization’s new e-commerce site, store, NCAAFootball.com.

Joba impersonator receives reduced sentence

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ryan Ward of Toms River, N.J., pleaded guilty Wednesday to reduced charges of disorderly conduct, was fined $2,518 and was placed on two years’ probation.

NFL Players Association opts not to renew Topps license

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Apparently 53 years in the hobby doesn't mean as much as some believed, as the news about the NFL Players Association decision not to renew Topps' license in 2010 hit the hobby Nov. 9.

1927 Yankees team photo brings $350,000

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A PSA/DNA-certified, Near-Mint condition photograph signed by 30 members of the legendary “Murderer’s Row” 1927 New York Yankees team has been purchased for a record $350,000.

Global files for bankruptcy protection; Dully replaced

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Global Authentication, which offers card grading and autograph authentication services, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The company’s petition, filed Dec. 16 with U.S. Bankruptcy Court’s Central District of California, lists estimated assets between $50,000-$100,000 and estimated liabilities of between $1 million and $10 million.

Panini/Donruss deal complete; hobby awaits details

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The rumored acquisition of Donruss by Italian-based Panini became fact last week, with the official announcement by Panini that it had completed and finalized the deal.

Autograph Collecting: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So, you’re on vacation in New York, taking in some dinner at Mickey Mantle’s Restaurant with your family. About four bites into your fried calamari appetizer, you look to your left and notice Kobe Bryant and wife Vanessa enjoying some culinary favorites of their own.

Star-struck for a moment or two, you regroup in time to notice the hostess walk away with what appears to be a newly signed cocktail napkin. A few minutes later, you peer over again and notice an elated server racing back to the kitchen with a signed napkin of his own and a brush-with-greatness story he’ll likely be retelling for years to come.

HBO files motion to dismiss Frangipani libel suit

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

HBO looks to dismiss $5 million libel suit by autograph authenticator Donald Frangipani.

Unlocking the Wax Museum

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Opening old wax packs isn’t always cost effective, but it sure is fun.

Press Pass has big plans for rookie Logano

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fresh off becoming the youngest driver to win a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event June 28 at the Lenox Industrial Tools 301 in New Hampshire Motor Speedway, 19-year-old Joey Logano and Press Pass announced big plans for July.

Upper Deck signs Tony Romo to autograph exclusive

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a stable that already includes Michael Jordan, Ken Griffey Jr., Tiger Woods and others, Upper Deck has signed Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo to an exclusive autographed memorabilia deal.

Topps says more on-card autographs in Topps T206 Baseball

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an attempt to meet the needs of its consumers, Topps has recently announced some changes that collectors will likely be glad to hear. Although the 2009 Topps T206 Baseball selling information solicited autographed cards featuring stickers, Topps is pleased to announce that 80 percent of the autographs in the product are signed on-card. Topps T206 (100th Anniversary Ed.) just shipped and guarantees two autographs and/or relics in every box.

Upper Deck Looks For Plan B In Licensing Snafu

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When the New York Times ran a story a couple of weeks ago about Major League Baseball granting Topps an exclusive license to produce baseball cards next year, officials from archrival Upper Deck found themselves in the unenviable position of trying to assure collectors that the sky had not fallen and the baseball card arena was not reverting to anything like the 25 years of monopoly status that Topps enjoyed from 1956-80.

Topps Expands Letterman Brand to Football

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's one of the more unqie patch ideas in the hobby – Topps' Letterman brand, which features the letters from players' jersey. And now it's expanding to football.

Dreams partners with AOL for online sales platform

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

AOL Sports and Dreams, Inc. have launched the FanHouse Fan Shop, an online store featuring apparel, collectibles and authentic autographed memorabilia directly on FanHouse, AOL Sports’ blog site.

UD excited about new SP Threads Football set

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck recenetly announced the release of its 2009 SP Threads Football card set. The 260-card collection features the top NFL players as well as the top rookies from the 2009 NFL draft. As always, the “Rookie Autograph Letterman” insert collection remains the set’s key driver.

MLBPA promotion sets participation record

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Major League Baseball Players Association’s Baseball Card Clubhouse program established a record for participation in October, as nearly 2,400 kids took part in its baseball card collecting seminars around the country. That smashed the previous single-month record of 1,477 kids, set last March.

MeiGray offering game-used jerseys from All-Star Game

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Game-used jerseys from 22 participants in this year’s NBA All-Star Game and 16 members of this year’s Rookie Challenge Game are being sold via an online auction by MeiGray Group. The auction is taking place at http://auctions.nba.com.

Upper Deck Announces The Tale of Despereaux Cards

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upcoming animated feature film will be released during the holidays starring Matthew Broderick. Cards hit Nov. 18, with autographed versions of the movie's stars.

1959 Topps Retro Cards Created For National VIPs

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Topps Company continues a popular tradition at the 30th National Sports Collectors Convention. Leaning on their long history, the 2009 Topps VIP Cards will be a 50th Anniversary version in the style of their 1959 issue.

Vintage budget gifts for Xmas

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s been a tough year financially for a lot of hobbyists, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to be lean times under the Christmas tree. And as we all know, when it comes to eBay, the thrill of chasing bargains can be almost as fun as watching the person open his or her present on Dec. 25.

In the Game to offer redemption program at Toronto show

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In The Game will again offer a redemption card program at its booth at the Sportscard & Memorabilia Fall Expo in Toronto,
Nov. 14-16.

Goodwin connects with rare card auction

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bill Goodwin almost routinely comes up with remarkable high-grade cards and sets for his periodic auctions, and the latest in that series, Masterpieces and Uncommon Commons XX, is hardly an exception to that rule.

T206 Set Headlines Huggins & Scott's May Sale

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Huggins & Scott unveiled its buyer’s premium sliding scale in its Feb. 4-5 auction – which offered a lower buyer’s premium the more an item sold for – and in the end, the auction house paid out more than usual. That’s a testament to the quality of items in the sale.

Dreams Inc. gets into catalog business

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Acquisition of StarStruck/Proteam will provide Dreams with a third channel to distribute its retail products.

Rick Porcello Headlines Enhanced Topps '08 Draft Picks Checklist

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topps has released its checklist for 2008 Draft Picks baseball, which now includes Rick Porcello. Check out the complete list.

Dare to compare: MJ or LeBron

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The intense search began following the 2002-03 NBA season when Michael Jordan decided to step away from the hardwood for good. Hundreds of candidates applied, some chosen, some self-appointed. But in the end, it seemed none could ever live up to the lofty standards established by their predecessor.

Mounted signs Hamels to autograph exclusive

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

World Series MVP Cole Hamels has signed an exclusive autograph deal with Mounted Memories through New Jersey-based MAB Celebrity Sports.

Jersey man selling SI collection for $2 million

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Would you pay $2 million for a historic collection of more than 10,000 original copies of almost every Sports Illustrated magazine edition that has ever been published? How about if every cover was signed by the cover star? A local man is selling his entire collection of autographed Sports Illustrated magazines for $1,999,999 on eBay.

High-end collectibles fuel Collect.com Auctions upcoming sale

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions is proud to present its Sports Auction #3, slated to kick off Nov. 16 and end Dec. 3. Register now at www.collect.com/auctions.

Manny and Big Papi tested positive for PEDs in 2003

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz and were among the 104 major league players listed as having tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003, lawyers with knowledge of the results told The New York Times.

Determining the true value of card

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

(Editor’s Note: As many in the hobby are already well aware, www.sportscardforum.com is one of the most popular collecting websites the Internet has to offer. Each month, Tuff Stuff’s Sports Collectors Monthly will share one of the best message board posts with our readers. This month’s topic explains how a trip to Cooperstown transformed a young man into a collector for life.)

Hunt Auctions Pulls Wright Letters From FanFest Auction

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hunt Auctions has stopped the bidding and removed lots from its current auction containing 19th-century letters sent to Harry Wright while the FBI investigates whether they were among items stolen from the New York Public Library years ago.

Tuff Stuffs Hobby Watchdog warns of fake sig cards on eBay

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Now, I’m sure you are all familiar with the popular 2007 Topps Rookie Premiere Autos that were available in the 2007 Topps HTA jumbo boxes. These cards are some of the most popular offerings each year, mainly because they are extremely rare, the autos are signed on card, and the design usually looks great. The RPAs are also some of the first cards to feature the rookie in their NFL uniform, which makes them very desirable to rookie player collectors. However, because Topps has to take the pictures, print the cards, and get them signed in one weekend, the cards have to be printed on different stock than normal. Unfortunately, this plays right into the hands of the people who have started to print and sell the fake cards.

The Growing Legend of Longoria

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the matter of few months, Evan Longoria of the Tampa Bay Rays has gone from "Eva" jokes to being one of the impact players in the postseason. Oh, and his collectibles are soaring, too.

Card companies a major presence at The National

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Sports Collectors Convention is traditionally dominated by vintage cards and memorabilia, but the new-card manufacturers have made great inroads in recent years in establishing a bona fide presence for much of their splashy material fresh off the presses.

Hunt Auctions Buys Philly Show

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hunt Auctions’ considerable reach into the sports memorabilia marketplace expanded once again this week with the announcement that the Exton, Pa.-based auction company had purchased the famed Philly Show and will move the venerable hobby institution to Valley Forge from its current location in Reading, Pa.

eTopps Kicks Off Baseball Season With Presidential Allen & Ginter Cards

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Catch the first pitch of the 2009 eTopps baseball season with Allen & Ginter president cards.

MLB Signers: Who's In and Who's out, the AL Central

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A comprehensive breakdown of the players in the American League Central division who typically honor signature requests.

Mounted Memories announces Sun-Times Autograph lineup

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mounted Memories and Schwartz Sports have announced the autograph guests who will appear at the upcoming Chicago Sun-Times Collectibles show, Nov. 21-23 in Rosemont, Ill.

Sign Here: And These Athletes Usually Will

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When spending time, money and effort to write to sports stars, it’s always nice to know which guys sign and which don’t. For years, collectors referenced one of the address books published yearly. Today, many use collector websites that are updated in real time with the latest successes and failures. So who are the best through-the-mail signers in all the major sports?

UD Announces Short-Print Info '09 MLB Goodwin Champions

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

UD to provide special cards to Trade Show attendees

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck is pulling out all the stops for the 2009 Hawaii Trade Conference – Mainland Edition to provide attendees at the company’s Meet the Industry session with some truly rare cards. Each attendee will receive one random triple or quadruple autograph card of stars players from a variety of sports.

Auction for 139-year-old baseball card ends at $64,073

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The now-famous 1869 Cincinnati Red Stockings team card found last summer in an antique store has just a short time before its auction is concluded.

Could Donruss Be Making Basketball Cards Next Season? Stay Tuned

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Could Donruss be making NBA cards next season? Technically, the answer might turn out to be “yes.” Rumors suggest the NBA’s newest licensee, Panini, has made inquiries to Donruss about utilizing some of the company’s prepress services for its 2009-10 basketball cards.

Memory Lane Announces December Sale

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

December Memory Lane auction follows on the heels of a $2.7 million September sale. High-grade vintage cards will once again lead the sale.

Donruss signs McHale to first autograph deal

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss has signed basketball hall of famer Kevin McHale to his first trading card autograph contract. McHale’s first certified autograph cards will appear in the company’s upcoming Americana Sports Legends product.

Upper Deck lands exclusive deal to produce collegiate sets

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), a division of IMG Worldwide, and The Upper Deck Company, a leading producer of sports trading cards, announced today a multi-year agreement on behalf of more than 200 collegiate institutions for Upper Deck to be the exclusive licensee in the collegiate trading card category.

Gehrig jersey fuels Grey Flannel sale

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A circa-1933 game-used home jersey worn by the New York Yankees’ immortal Iron Horse, Lou Gehrig, tops an all-star lineup of sports apparel, equipment and memorabilia in Grey Flannel’s Holiday Auction, with absentee and Internet bids accepted from Nov. 16 through Dec. 9.

High Price for Sheets

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Brewers' Ben Sheets is counting down the days to free agency. Are collectors doing the same, waiting for the price of his cards to go up?

Earliest Mantle Jersey, Robinson's MVP Award On Parade at Grey Flannel

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Grey Flannel Auctions’ Summer Games auction, running from April 6-29, features an 850-lot selection of blue-chip sports memorabilia with impeccable provenance.

300 Hobby Shops in Starting 5 Promotion

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NBA hobby shop Starting 5 promotion kicks off Nov. 1, and 300 hobby shops are signed up to participate.

Dreams Inc. Hits Record Revenue, but Reports Net Loss

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite the tough economic conditions, Dreams Inc. reported revenues for 2008 increased 10.3 percent to a record $82 million. However, lower-than-projected revenues in the fourth quarter were cited as the key contributors to a net loss of $1.6 million for the year, the company’s first annual loss in four years.

Swoopes� personal items sold from storage unit

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The personal contents of WNBA basketball star Sheryl Swoopes were sold when the contents of a Texas storage unit were made available by the owner of the storage company when charges went unpaid, something owners legally have a right to do.

Topps named exclusive card manufacturer for MLB

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an announcement excpected today, Topps will be named the exclusive trading card manufacturer of Major League Baseball starting next year as part of a multiyear deal, restructuring the sports card landscape once again. Not since 1980 has Topps had exclusive rights to produce baseball cards with Major League Baseball logos and trademarks. Neither Topps, MLB or the MLBPA returned calls before press time.

LeBron cards pulled in NBA's Starting 5 promo

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Three more LeBron James autographed cards have been pulled from prize packs of the NBA’s Starting 5 hobby shop promotion.

Players-Turned Analysts Sign Often

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

They might no longer roam the field with a passion, but former athletes-turned analysts still don't disappoint when it comes to autograph requests.

Discovery of 1869 card generating national attention

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A 72-year-old California woman has turned her recent find of a rare baseball card into quite a bit of national media attention, including a scheduled appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” next week.

Three-peat winners make for great memorabilia

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Back-to-back-to-back championships are uncommon, making Jimmie Johnson’s NASCAR win this year three times as incredible – especially when you consider his colleague Kyle Busch dominated the season prior to the Chase, NASCAR’s season-ending series that determines the Sprint Cup winner. It underscores how hard such sustained excellence can be. Even though he’d won in 2006 and 2007, Johnson wasn’t the top dog on the track in 2008 until the last few races, hanging back in the standings and generally assumed to be having a good, not great, season.

Tuff Stuffs Bustin Wax set to return

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

They're baaaaccckkkk! The popular video box breaks of new card products from the major manufacturers featured on Tuff Stuff's Bustin' Wax blog (link: http://blog.tuffstuff.com/bustinwax/ and on the forum: http://forum.tuffstuff.com/tt.aspx?forumid=4) will soon be in the rotation again. Check back the first week of November on the Tuff Stuff Home page and check out our findings.

Hunt Announces Objectives for First Philly Show

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The sports collecting hobby has a few institutions among its ranks. One of those is “The Philly Show,” otherwise known as the Philadelphia Sports Card & Memorabilia Show, which harkens back nearly 35 years.

Thats My Ticket offering personal Mega Tickets

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The New York Yankees, New York Mets, St. Louis Cardinals and Washington Nationals have launched an in-stadium Mega Ticket Program where fans can get their own personal tickets made into Mega Tickets.

Survey: Collectors buying fewer cards due to costs, content

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The fact that a majority of collectors are spending less money on trading cards in the current economic climate is not a major surprise. But results of a survey released last week at the Hawaii Trade Conference suggest it will take more than just an improved economy to convince some hobbyists to become active collectors again.

Dahlia Web Designs Partners with Steiner

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dahlia Web Designs LLC signs with Steiner Sports to expand its authentic baseball product line at Collectibles4Baseball online store. Baseball fans will enjoy viewing all the new and more expansive inventory of products. In addition to baseballs, the store now carries photos, helmets, bats, scorecards, lineup cards, jerseys, gloves and jackets. Each hand-signed product comes with a certificate of authenticity. As the contending MLB teams are progressing towards the World Series, fans will feel a great connection with their favorite players and teams. The inventory contains thousands of products, all the major teams and Hall of Famers.

Second Sackers With Some Collecting Clout

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The American League has had its fair share of elite second basemen. The Baseball Hall of Fame has a couple of examples in Rod Carew (inducted in 1991) and Nellie Fox (inducted in 1997) as prime examples. However, many fans of the game today are too young to remember these great second basemen of the American League. Although it is too early to start predicting who may eventually enter the Baseball Hall of Fame as an American League second baseman, the 2009 Major League Baseball season has provided us with examples of some of the current greats of the game. All debates aside, Tuff Stuff decided to expand the discussion with various insightful references to come up with the top five second basemen of the American League, based on the current MLB season.

Going Deep with Vintage AFL Cards

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The American Football League has a lasting appeal for several hobbyists, including Dave Steidel, who witnessed the AFL go from zero to 60 and way beyond during the 1960s.

Global Authentication files for bankruptcy protection

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What Becomes of the NY Stadiums?

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's the end of an era for the New York MLB stadiums – Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium. Both will be replaced in 2009. But what happens to the glorious stadium memorabilia that will sell like hotcakes?

MLB implements instant Instant Replay

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Baseball pulls the trigger on Instant Replay

The Ultimate Unopened Fantasy: $46.2 Million

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A photo from Woolworth's in 1952 sent this sports card collector scurrying for a calculator to figure what 231 boxes of 1952 Topps Baseball might be worth. In case you're wondering, the 1952 price tag was $277.

McFarlane Announces New Figure Set

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

This fall, look for new NFL products from McFarlane Toys, including Team Sets and collector's editions.

O.J. looks to Supreme Court for help in memorabilia case charges

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

O.J. Simpson is appealing to the Nevada Supreme Court to overturn his conviction on Las Vegas armed robbery and kidnapping charges.

Upper Deck to offer promotions at NHL All-Star Show

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck will again have a large presence at this weekend’s NHL All-Star Game festivities in Montreal.

Donruss Threads Baseball Sold Out

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Demand far exceeded supply as the debut of the product neared.

Show dealers also feeling the effects of slow economy

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The economic downturn of the past year has affected everyone in the industry, including show dealers and promoters. While the show market is much smaller than it was a decade ago, this latest slowdown has put a noticeable dent into show attendance and spending.

Beat the Blogger Contest, Win $500 Prize Package

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This week's Beat the Blogger contest will be made up entirely of NCAA Tournament matchups and will feature a prize package of nearly $500 worth of sports memorabilia.

To enter now, click here.

Huge Turnout for FanFest's Big Apple Debut

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2008 FanFest in New York lived up to its billing. With the hype surrounding the last season of the fabled stadium, fans and collectors came out in droves.

SMA bankruptcy has memorabilia donors seeing red

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some of the individuals and organizations who donated items to the Sports Museum of America are being told they will have to pay to get their items back because the memorabilia is being held as assets in the museum’s Chapter 7 bankruptcy liquidation.

Some Lions worth collecting

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

You don’t need to follow the NFL to know that the Detroit Lions set a record for futility in 2008. The NFL’s first 0-16 team has become a regular punch line for Jay Leno, David Letterman and every other comedian on TV. Imagine trying to come up with the Lions’ video highlights for 2008. You’d likely start and end with the exhibition season, when the Lions were a perfect 4-0.

New Upper Deck set chronicles entire 2008 MLB season

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck is offering another challenge for set collectors. The same company that offered a 6,661-card insert set chronicling every game ever played at Yankee Stadium is now rolling out a 4,980-card set documenting every game of the 2008 MLB season.

NHL Rookie Photo Shoot

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Do you want to know who will be the next big thing in the NHL before everybody else? What hockey collector doesn't. Well we here at Tuff Stuff are happy to provide you a sneak peak at the top rookies of the 2009-10 NHL season.

Heisman Trophy among top items in Mastro NYC sale

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mastro has announced a live event in NYC - and it's going to include the Heisman Trophy of Charles White. The trophy sold in 2006 for nearly $300,000.

Complete the Yankee Stadium Legacy Series, Meet Jeter

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

All of the cards in the Yankee Stadium Legacy series from Upper Deck are now available in 2008 UD Baseball products. That means the entire set can now be put together. So Upper Deck is rewarding the first five who can confirm they have done so, including a visit with Derek Jeter.

Donruss asks judge to dismiss MLB trademark suit

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Attorneys for Donruss deny the card maker has infringed any trademarks of MLB Properties and have asked a judge to dismiss the infringement complaint filed against Donruss Jan. 21.

Upper Deck's All-Star Vinyl Exclusively at Toys R Us

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With a new look, smaller size and cheaper price point, Upper Deck's All-Star Vinyl figures will now be available at Toys R Us. First up, NFL stars McNabb, Brady, Eli Manning and more!

Press pins gain momentum on the market

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The limited-edition media credentials are highly coveted in the sports hobby - but at what cost?

UD running regional Packer Promo

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Upper Deck Company has just announced a special Green Bay Packers premiums promotion that it is launching this weekend with 10 different newspapers in the Wisconsin market.

Ticket Specialist Al Glaser Joins PSA Team

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Noted sports ticket expert Al Glaser of California has joined Professional Sports Authenticator as a full-time ticket authenticator.

A NASCAR Collecting Primer

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Want to get in on the fastest collecting hobby on the market? Here are some tips to get in on the ground floor of NASCAR collecting.

Favre . . . on a tractor . . . in Times Square

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's fun when card companies make spoof cards, and collectors eat that stuff up, too. Well here's another from Topps, and it involves Brett Favre, a lawn tractor and an interesting landscape in Times Square.

SP Authentic Baseball Launches

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck's latest baseball release boats three autograph cards per box.

Football, hockey posted market share gains in 2008

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Results of Card Trade magazine’s annual retailer survey showed football and hockey being the two sports that posted market share gains in the card market last year, with football posting the largest increase in sales.

Baseball HOF to add Aaron exhibit

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum plans to dedicate a new, permanent exhibit, “Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream.”

PSA/DNA Now Certifies Sports Rings, Trophies and Awards

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PSA/DNA Authentication Services is now accepting championship rings, trophies and awards for certification. Certified items will be issued an illustrated Letter of Authenticity that includes a detailed description of the item and photographic images from several different views of it.

A great pull worth the wait

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

(Editor’s Note: www.sportscardforum.com is one of the most popular collecting websites the Internet has to offer. Each month, Tuff Stuff’s Sports Collectors Monthly will share one of the best message board articles with our readers.)

Global CEO: �Bankruptcy was our best option�

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A sudden downturn in revenues, combined with a significant amount of debt incurred from leases related to its commercial office space, were the key factors behind the decision by Global Authentication, Inc., to file for bankruptcy protection, according to the the company’s CEO.

UD kicks off new hobby shop promotion

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck Company announced its latest promotional sports program – “Hockey Card Heaven” – which is designed to inspire shop owners in Canada to host more in-store events to engage kids in the art of card collecting and to create excitement surrounding this year’s top-notch rookie class. The shops that run the most creative promotions that translate to increased sales, those that merchandise new hockey cards the best ways possible and the ones that orchestrate the most lucrative in-store events will all be in the running for great prizes.

UD Releases �Pro Shots� Action Figures Spotlighting Michael Jordan

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Spotlighting two of Michael Jordan’s most memorable moments ever on the NBA court, the just-released MJ Series 2 Pro Shots action figures are sure to comprise the hottest figure release of the year. The two moments captured include Jordan’s gravity-defying dunk that closed out the 1988 NBA Slam Dunk Contest as well as “The Move” from Game 2 of the 1991 NBA Finals when MJ – in mid-air underneath the basket – transferred the basketball from his right hand to his left and banked it in against the Lakers.

Lincecum, Lee named top pitchers by peers

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

San Francisco’s Tim Lincecum and Cleveland’s Cliff Lee are the best pitchers of 2008, according to their peers.

Collect.com Auctions Second Sports Auction is Live

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With more than 1,100 lots ready for bidding, there's somethng for everyone in Collect.com Auctions Sports Auction #2. Bidding is now open, closing Aug. 27. Start shopping.

Top NBA rookies, cardmakers to meet at photo shoot

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

NBA rookies to pose for first cards

Upper Deck schedules National Hockey Card Day

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck is organizing a National Hockey Card Day promotion for several hundred hobby and retail stores.

Number of hobby shop closings on the rise

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Store closings in the hobby have been a fact of life for several years, but the rate of closings appears to have accelerated in recent months as a result of the deepening recession.

Frozen Pond Hockey Spectacular Goes Live April 29

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Frozen Pond's Hockey Spectacular Auction #15 will include autographs, game-worn jerseys, game-used sticks and the actual banners that hung at the Hall of Fame during the induction ceremonies, among other items.

Hobby Investigation: Bogus Favre-Endorsed Game-Used Jerseys

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

What happens when player-endorsed game jerseys turn out to be anything but authentic? And what happens when it's Brett Favre? Sports Collector's Monthly's sister publication, Sports Collectors Digest, investigates.

Donruss creates limited-edition sets

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss has created two limited-edition card sets that will be distributed as part of the NFL International Series at games in both London and Toronto.

Griffey Sigs available in UD Series 1 Baseball

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck had Ken Griffey Jr. sign 89 of his 1989 rookie cards and include the inscription “20 years.” The cards will be randomly inserted into 2009 Upper Deck Series One Baseball, which releases next month.

Traded for a Card to be Made Later

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Late-run sets considered an afterthought are now full of value.

UD Puts the NHL Rookies through Hockey Card Boot Camp

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the NHL prepares itself for regular-season, opening-night action Oct. 1, the Upper Deck Company is proud to unveil the first of several NHL Rookies-themed videos that the exclusive manufacturer of NHL trading cards captured during last month’s inaugural NHL Rookie Debut Photo Shoot at the Hershey Centre in Toronto.

Grey Flannel, Steiner Sports form partnership

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Wensy.com provide eBay alternative

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With our current economy starting and stopping and reversing direction with quickness like baseball legend Jackie Robinson in one of his classic rundowns, it is nice to hear about something business-related growing in several positive directions.

This bright light is Wensy.com, an auction website with no fees in any form for buyers and sellers.

UD to make good on free card promise if Chicago gets Olympic nod

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In February, inside its 2009 Upper Deck Series One Baseball product, the Upper Deck Company released a nine-card insert set entitled: “Historic First Predictors.” The sports card giant made nine bold predictions for 2009 and stated that if any of them came true during the course of the year that it would do “something big.”

Upper Deck Puts the NHL Rookies through Hockey Card Boot Camp

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the NHL prepares itself for regular-season, opening-night action this Oct. 1, the Upper Deck Company is proud to unveil the first of several NHL Rookies-themed videos that the exclusive manufacturer of NHL trading cards captured during last month’s inaugural NHL Rookie Debut Photo Shoot at the Hershey Centre in Toronto.

Rules to Follow at a card show

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As hobbyist and collectors, we all love to attend card shows. Unfortunately, for some people, the opportunities are few and far between. One thing is for certain however, each and every collector would love to attend the National Sports Collector Convention, which is held in Cleveland, Ohio, from the July 29 to August 2.

TRISTAR to debut set at National

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Athlete Encounters Part IV

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

(Editor's Note: This story originally ran in the Sept. issue of Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly as the final part in a four-part series).
I think the year was 1979 or 1980, I can’t remember for sure. I know I was about 10 years old and I was going to my first race with my dad at the Milwaukee Mile.

Panini to have access to NFL Draft memorabilia

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As part of its agreement with the NFL to be designated as the “Official Trading Card of the 2009 NFL Draft,” representatives of the card company will be on hand at the April 25-26 draft in New York City, have access to photography from the event, as well as officially licensed NFL Draft memorabilia worn by the players.

NFL Players releases new Caricature line

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

NFL PLAYERS, the licensing and marketing subsidiary of the NFL Players Association, announced recently the release of the NFL PLAYERS Caricature line, its first exclusively licensed collection featuring illustrations of current NFL players on a combination of T-shirts, mugs, water bottles, school supplies and other non-apparel products. The unique player images are owned exclusively by NFL PLAYERS and highlight player personalities and individual elements reflective of the markets in which they play.

SCD will be blogging live from The National

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Unable to make the trip to Cleveland for this year's National Sports Collectors Show? Don't worry, SCD has you covered. Sports Collectors Digest editor T.S. O'Connell will be scouring the showroom floor Thursday thru Sunday and will be making live blog posts so those of you unable to attend can still feel the pulse of the hobby's biggest show.

Dykstra rings draws heavy bidding

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 1986 World series ring that once belonged to ex-Mets and Phillies slugger Len Dykstra sold today, Oct. 2, 2009, for $56,762.50 at Heritage Auctions in Dallas. The price realized was almost triple the low original estimate of $20,000. The winning bidder was a collector from the Queens, NY-area. All prices include 19.5% Buyer’s Premium.

Tips for better Thru-The-Mail success

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a recent issue of Tuff Stuff’s Sports Collectors Monthly, Bryan Petrulis authored five easy steps to increase your Thru-The–Mail autograph success rate. The following will take you five steps further in increasing the quantity and quality of your mail successes.

Heisman Winner Autographs

Mon, 06 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Collecting autographs from college football's best isn't a shot in the dark - they do answer.

Beckett CEO to Step Down

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Peter Gudmundsson will step down as CEO and president of Beckett Media on Oct. 1.

Companies act fast to capture Favre as a Viking

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It didn’t take long for card companies to get early photos of Brett Favre as a member of the Minnsota Vikings for upcoming products. While not quite the media ordeal as last year when Favre jong the N.Y. Jets, card companies still wanted to get shots of Favre as early as possible.

Revisiting the 1933 Goudey set

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Trying to find nice things to say about a global depression that pushed millions of Americans out of work and to society’s fringes and beyond and devastated so many in such stark fashion that it changed the world view of a whole generation would seem to be a tough chore. So we’ll try anyway. Smack dab in the middle of the Great Depression, the Goudey Gum Co. of Boston, Mass., produced its first sports card issue of 239 baseball players. They called their gum “Big League Chewing Gum” and the set proved to be a hit upon release and – more germane to our purposes – a half century later when the sports card hobby took off.

Steiner gives details on sale of Yankee Stadium artifacts

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Let the Yankee Stadium memorabilia bonanza begin. After the Monday announcement that the Yankees paid $11.5 million for the right to sell memorabilia from the old Yankee Stadium (the city owned the stadium and its contents), everyone waited for the Tuesday announcement about what would be the first items sold.

Live From Tampa: Trade Conference Updates

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Live from sunny, warm Tampa, Fla., Tuff Stuff Editor Scott Fragale is posting blog updates from the Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition April 21-22.

Ruth uniform sells for $310k

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

SCP Auctions purchased a full Babe Ruth 1938 Brooklyn Dodgers road uniform for $310,500 at the recent Hunt Auctions sale at the Louisville Slugger Museum.

Upper Deck Searches for the Ultimate NFL Fan

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Do you consider yourself the ultimate NFL fan? If so, the Upper Deck Company wants you to prove it. With the 2009 NFL season about to enter Week 6, the sports card company is challenging fanatical football fans across the country to submit their personal videos, photos or written entries to www.UpperDeckUltimateFan.com to get in the running to possibly be named the “Ultimate NFL Fan.”

Deal could give Packers exclusive right to Favre autographs

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

He's out of Green Bay, but apparently, not all feelings are bad when it comes to Green Bay and quarterback Brett Favre. Could a huge deal be on the table once he really retires?

Freedom Cardboard.com has produced a five-card prospects set exclusively for The National.

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Freedom Cardboard.com has produced a five-card prospects set exclusively for The National. The set includes the Orioles’ rookie Matt Wieters; Tim Beckham, the first overall pick of the 2008 draft; Justin Smoak, first-round pick of the Texas Rangers; Brett Wallace, 2008 first-round pick of the St. Louis Cardinals; and David Cooper, the Blue Jays first-round pick in 2008.

Card company layoffs latest sign of market turmoil

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The dramatic slowdown in the economy and its impact on the trading card market was evident last week, as a significant number of layoffs took place at both Topps and Upper Deck. Between the two companies, more than 100 jobs were eliminated.

REA projecting $5 million in sales for spring event

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A 1915 Cracker Jack poster, considered one of the finest known specimens in the hobby, headlines the May 2 Robert Edward Auctions spring event. Bidding starts April 10 for REA’s annual auction, expected to exceed $5 million.

UD Offers Special Prize in Cut Signature Set Promotion

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck’s SP Legendary Cuts Baseball “Cut Signature” set has provided exciting chase cards with signatures of deceased legends embedded in the card. However, set collectors were left out in the cold because many of the cards were 1-of-1s. But the 320-card 2009 SP Legendary Cuts Baseball “Cut Signature” set is different – there is no card limited to fewer than five total versions.

Highland Mint offering World Series PhotoMints

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Highland Mint is offering limited-edition PhotoMints honoring the Tampa Bay Rays and Philadelphia Phillies for their 2008 World Series appearances.

Tar Heels, Steiner Sports form collectible partnership

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

University of North Carolina basketball fans can now own a part of Tar Heels history. Steiner Sports and Tar Heel Sports Properties are providing fans the opportunity to purchase a game-used section of the court from the Tar Heels victory in the 2009 NCAA Championship Game.

Mays� Tristar appearance not without some drama

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hall of Famer Willie Mays was the big draw at Tristar’s Collectibles Showcase at the Cow Palace in San Francisco on May 1-3, even with an asking price of $300-$700 per item.

Report: Diamondbacks Owner Also Owns Famed "Gretzky" Wagner Card

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Someone paid $2.8 million to have the T206 Honus Wagner in PSA 8 condition thay was formerly owned by Wayne Gretzky. Well, the owner has now been revealed....but still not commenting.

Steiner signs Joba Chamberlain to exclusive deal

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Adding to an already impressive list of exclsuive signers, Steiner Sports has added Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain.

Highland Mint creates new Favre PhotoMint

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Highland Mint releases new Favre 8-by-10 color photo of Favre as a Jet

Part III in Tuff Stuffs Dream Collectible series

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tuff Stuff asked our readers "If they could own any one collectible, what would it be?" We received a wide variety of responses and here is the third installment from the series. Look for a new features which asks readers "What's wrong with the hobby?" coming soon.

Topps announces 50th annual MLB Rookie All-Star Team

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topps has announced the roster of its 50th annual Major League Rookie All-Star Team. Each player will have the Rookie All-Star Team logo on his 2009 Topps card.

Draft class present in Signature Edition Football

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Press Pass Signature Edition Football returns May 7 with a 12-pack hobby box that contains a total of at least nine on-card autographs and three game-used collegiate jersey cards of the top names from the 2009 draft class.

Kobe's No. 24 most popular jersey

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The NBA's lists of 10 most popular jerseys and 10 most popular team merchandise, based on sales at the NBA Store in New York City and NBAStore.com since the start of the 2008-09 season through January.

UD signs exclusive for rights to DiMaggio estate

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In December, the multi-year agreement between Upper Deck and Joe DiMaggio’s estate to produce trading cards of the “Yankee Clipper” became exclusive.

Judge Rules Memorabilia Card Patents are Invalid

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One of the longest legal battles in the sports card industry isn’t officially over, but it took a big step toward conclusion this week when a judge declared a patent for memorabilia-based trading cards to be invalid. The decision came in a lawsuit that charged Upper Deck and Donruss with infringing the patent.

Targeted marketing providing solid results for NHL

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dave McCarthy, VP of consumer marketing for NHL Enterprises, said the league has three basic principles for getting hockey fans interested and active in becoming collectors – knowing what hockey fans like, making quality products and aggressively marketing those products.

Tuff Stuff exclusive interview with Upper Decks Richard McWilliam

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The following is the first of a three-part series with the top executives of the three largest card manufacturers in the industry, with the sole purpose being to provide our readers (and collectors in general) with the answers they need to stay on top of the hobby.

Ruth�s Dodgers jersey headlines next Hunt Auctions sale

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For the fifth consecutive year, Hunt Auctions will host Auction Week at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Nov. 12-15, culminating with a live auction of more than 875 lots of historical baseball memorabilia.

Yzerman signs autograph deal with Upper Deck

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an effort to provide collectors with new and exciting content of hockey greats, Upper Deck is pleased to announce that a deal was recently inked with Hall-of-Famer Steve Yzerman to provide autograph trading cards in its 2009-10 products.

Player Collecting On a Budget

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hello, my name is Tyler, and I’m a player collector on a budget. How many of you are in my shoes? Being a player collector in today’s hobby is harder than ever. Long gone are the days of three sets a year. Long gone are the days of a player having, maybe 20 rookies.

Fire On Ice: Crosby And Co. Are Proving To Be NHL Saviors On The Frozen Pond And In The Collectibles Industry

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It’s not a stretch to say that the 2005 rookie crop saved the NHL collectibles industry, and perhaps the league itself. Led by puck prodigy Sidney Crosby, this freshmen group re-energized hobbyists in wake of the NHL lockout.

Fireball hurlers hitting stride in the market

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Stephen Strasburg legend continues for the phenom pitcher who has reached 103 mph on the radar gun. It’s pretty much a foregone conclusion that he’ll be the No. 1 overall pick this summer by the Washington Nationals.

1954 Topps Baseball: A closer examination of a classic

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It would be an awful shame if one of the coolest baseball card sets ever produced got remembered for its stutter rather than its sustained eloquence. In the case of the 1954 Topps Baseball issue, that would mean recalling the issue more for all of the star players missing – or some of the odd replacements inserted in their stead – rather than recounting the virtues of the iconic design that would wind up being a prototype for generations to come.

Hartland of Ohio Still Producing Figures

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While Hartland Collectibes LLC is going through bankruptcy proceedings, Hartland of Ohio is still producing figures as normal.

Kobe signs exclusive deal with Panini

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Panini Group, the NBA’s exclusive trading card partner, has signed four-time NBA champion Kobe Bryant of the Los Angeles Lakers as its official company spokesman and global trading card ambassador. Bryant’s exclusive multi-year agreement with Panini includes autographs, memorabilia, and a joint charitable component.

Can Michael Vick rise in the hobby again?

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Vick is easily identifiable as one of the most tantalizing athletes in professional sports. Drafted with the No. 1 pick in 2001, he was a three-time Pro Bowler and was once recognized as the premier quarterback in the National Football League with the Atlanta Falcons. In 2006 he rushed for 1,039 yards, the most by a quarterback in a single season in NFL history.

Basketball Hall of Fame Trying to Dig Out of Debt

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Officials say the Naismith Memorial will stay afloat through the summer, but the museum is million in the red.

Dream Inc. teams up with Philadelphia Eagles

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dreams Inc. has partnered with the Philadelphia Eagles to re-launch the team’s online fan shop, The Official Philadelphia Eagles Online Store, and support their catalog business. This alliance marks Dreams Inc.’s first foray into web syndication with an NFL team.

New Upper Deck set chronicles entire 2008 MLB season

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After offering a 6,661-card insert set chronicling every game ever played at Yankee Stadium, Upper Deck is now rolling out a 4,890-card set documenting every game of the 2008 MLB season.

Roethlisberger remains among the hobby elite

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When collectors think of the name Ben Roethlisberger, they think of the word champion. Nicknamed “Big Ben,” the 27-year-old quarterback already reached a number of milestones, most importantly, two Super Bowl rings.
Drafted 11th overall in the 2004 NFL Draft out of Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, Roethlisberger is usually compared to Eli Manning and Philip Rivers, who were drafted in the same year. Statistically, each player has experienced success in the league but neither of the other two have taken it to the level Roethlisberger has and you can’t refute his ability to win in the clutch.

Collect.com Auctions Premiere Catalog

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The new kids on the auction block are steeped in history and have now gone live with their premier auction. Featuring more than 1,000 quality lots in all price points, Collect.com Auctions would like to preview the items up for bids. Get detailed lot descriptions, color photos of the items, starting bids and everything a bidder could need to get involved in a great sports memorabilia sale.

Trio of companies to host interactive sports gaming event with fans

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary Auctions has announced it has joined forces with The Sports Legends Challenge presented by AbsolutePoker.net to produce the ultimate sports fantasy experience. On Sept. 14-17, the inaugural Sports Legends Challenge will take place at Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas. The resort will serve as a backdrop for this world-class sports and gaming event which will revolutionize the interaction and relationship between sports fans and their sports heroes as they compete in a variety of casino games, including No Limit Texas Hold ‘Em, Blackjack and Slots, as a well as a daily prize-money golf tournament

One Lie Leads To Another For A-Rod

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I've been staying away from most of the A-Rod steroid fallout for the last couple of weeks because the fact that A-Rod used steroids wasn't shocking news to me. Ever since the Feds started chasing Barry Bonds seemingly 20 years ago about his usage, I've maintained that Barry wasn't the only one who used it and couldn't understand why all of the allegations were geared toward him.

Card Release Schedule

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Want to know what the sports card companies are releasing? Check out the schedule here.

Meet the 1969 Mets all over again

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Mets collector Andy Fogel needed to pay for his daughter’s wedding, he sold a game-worn, 1969 Ed Charles World Series jersey for $20,000. “It only helped pay for the wedding,” said Fogel with a chuckle. “It didn’t pay for the whole wedding.” Parting with this Holy Grail item must have been difficult for Fogel. Game-worn jerseys from the 1969 squad are nearly impossible to find and remain highly coveted. And with the 40th anniversary of the club approaching, demand for 1969 Mets items continues to be strong.

Collecting World Series Moments: Our Top-10 To Chase

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Chasing moments from the World Series: A Top-10 look at some great collectibles and their values

Shoeless Joe GU Bat Cards Highlight Donruss Threads

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss Threads has a special treat for collectors - Gasp! game-used bat cards of Shoeless Joe Jackson.

UD releases photo signed by Ali, Jordan and Woods

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck Authenticated has introduced a triple-signed montage featuring sports icons Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods.

UD helps Park View All-Stars make it to the Majors

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On Oct. 30, the 2009 Little League World Series Champion “Park View All-Stars” from Chula Vista, Calif., were hosted to an autograph signing session/pizza party at the San Diego Hall of Champions Sports Museum in Balboa Park. The event, orchestrated by Park View All-Stars League President Rod Roberto and the Hall of Champions, was a way for the team to get together after their momentous season to collectively sign a variety of items (photos, caps, baseballs, bats, etc.) for family members and friends who helped support them through their journey to baseball history, which culminated with a championship game victory in Williamsport, Penn., on August 30.

Pair of HOFers appearing at DugoutZone

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Two Baltimore & Memorial Stadium Legends - Brooks Robinson and Art Donavan - will be appearing at the DugoutZone on October 24. The two Hall of Famers will be greeting fans and signing autographs from noon until 1:30 pm.

Tuff Stuff's Hobby Watchdog Warns of fake Exquisite FB cards

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to fake patches or fake cards, there are some that just make you wonder why the scammer would even think of putting them together. In the past, the scammers have only used low dollar jersey cards to execute their crimes. However, that doesn’t always hold true in every case, as sometimes you can have a guy who uses an extremely high end card for his scam. This can be very problematic, especially for people who aren’t used to having to identify fake patches.

Upper Deck to produce 1,170 card Jordan tribute set

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck is honoring its longtime spokesman, and soon-to-be Hall of
Famer, Michael Jordan with a 1,170-card insert set chronicling every game
regular season and playoffs Jordan played for the Chicago Bulls.

The Kid Returns: Griffey's return to Seattle Sparks Hobby

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Still pounding on the doors of history and the heartbeat of baseball fans everywhere, Ken Griffey Jr.’s emotional return to his Seattle Mariners roots has done what the memorabilia hobby desired—revitalized an icon. In the nine seasons he played for his hometown Cincinnati Reds, Griffey fell so far off the memorabilia map that he almost became a hobby afterthought, a common. But in the short time since rejoining the Mariners, Griffey collectors and his old fans have returned with fervor.

Topps announces FanFest exclusives

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topps encourages this year’s MLB All-Star FanFest attendees to stop by the Topps Booth for free sample cards, Topps Attax game play for kids, Back on Topps Trivia and a whole lot of fun. (St. Louis, July 10-14).

Cops Haul Away Cards at Upper Deck

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cops descended on Upper Deck headquarters on Oct. 28, but it was for all the right reasons. Once again, Upper Deck was hosting the “Trick-or-Trade” card promotion that allows police units to hand out cards on Halloween.

Leaf Certified Football Now Live

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Each box will offer four autograph or memorabilia cards.

Time's Up For T.O.

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For years, I thought Terrell Owens was more misunderstood and misguided than the drama queen that many in the media have made him out to be but upon further review ...

Hobby Legend Lionel Carter Remembered

Thu, 04 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

He was a giant in the sports collecting field before cards were considered cool to collect. Hobby legend Lionel Carter passes away at age 90.

Sale of Yankee Stadium Memorabilia Announced

Wed, 13 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Let the Yankee Stadium memorabilia bonanza begin. After the Monday announcement that the Yankees paid $11.5 million for the right to sell memorabilia from the old Yankee Stadium (the city owned the stadium and its contents), everyone waited for the May 12 announcement about what would be the first items sold.

Sizemore Does Matter: Grady Ready To Break Out

Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s a rare occasion when fans, scouts, players and the media agree on the intrinsic value of an athlete, however, it’s that very transcendence that has propelled Indians’ centerfielder Grady Sizemore to the brink of baseball stardom.

Dreams sets record; announces venture with AOL Sports

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Internet division of Dreams, Inc., reported that it set a new company record for single-day online sales earlier this week. The company said it received 15,918 orders on Dec. 15, for sales of $1,029,595. The previous record was set Dec. 12, 2007, (13,233 orders with a value of $890,000.

A-Rod�s epic battle with Yankee Stadium ghosts

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Has there ever been a ballplayer positioned better to be a sure-fire, first-ballot Collecting Hall of Famer than Alexander Emmanuel Rodriguez?

He's handsome, stays out of trouble and is putting up numbers that may eventually surpass (gasp!) the Babe himself. So why is there such a disconnect between A-Rod's awesome achievements on the field and his collectibility off it?

Media attention boosting sales of Topps� Obama set

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Inauguration Day draws near, interest in collectibles and other keepsakes related to Barack Obama has increased significantly. Nobody knows that better than Topps, which has enjoyed such strong demand for its 90-card Obama set that its gone back to press to fill the growing number of orders.

ITPC sale boasts treasures from Kail collection

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Inside the Park Collectibles latest phone/Internet auction is up and running and open for bids. As with most ITPC auctions, this auction has a heavy emphasis on figural and display-type memorabilia. There are 150 quality lots of vintage memorabilia with ITPC’s no buyer’s premium policy in effect.

Topps releases commemorative T206 set

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Topps prepares to launch its 100th Anniversary T-206 product later this year, eTopps is now proud to offer our own special tribute to the 100th Anniversary of the most famous baseball cards of all time.

Donruss Expands Americana Brand � Now Offering Sports Legends

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With the huge popularity of Donruss Americana, the company is now expanding the line to offer Sports Legends. The new set will debut in December.

Perch at Yankees Clubhouse Led to Many Famous Opportunities

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Former Yankees clubhouse attendant had more than his share of memorable moments with the famous players that passed through his door. Good thing he took pictures whenever he could.

Heritage Auctions' co-chairman fires back at former consultant's lawsuit

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the face of a lawsuit that questions the integrity of the company he co-founded, Heritage Auction Galleries' co-chairman Steve Ivy is making his point clear: "We do not place shill bids...and we have nothing to hide." Furthermore, Ivy said, the lawsuit that has been filed against Heritage by a former consultant is essentially a smokescreen to divert attention from "the real issue at hand" - the plaintiff's refusal to pay Heritage an alleged debt in excess of one million dollars.

Upper Deck Toronto NHL Expo Hockey Redemption Sneak Peek

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a special sneak peek leading up to the 2008 NHL Fall Expo on Toronto, Upper Deck provides images of the NHL redemption cards.

Press Pass to offer Free NASCAR Auto Cards, Exclusive Legends FB Cards at The National

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

FansEdge show finalizes signing guests

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mounted Memories, the wholesale and manufacturing division of Dreams Inc., has finalized its roster of athletes for the first annual FansEdge Sports Spectacular, to be held July 16-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Upper Deck Ballpark Collection filled with treasures

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The latest baseball product release from Upper Deck is the Baseball Collection, which features three game-used memorabilia cards or one autograph and two game-used memorabilia cards in every pack. Plus, there's presidents, Popes and more.

No redemptions in Panini's 2009 Prestige Football

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panini America announced that 2009 Prestige Football will be released this year with no redemptions.

Chamberlain jersey highlights HOF auction sale

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The excitement surrounding the Sept. 11, 2009 induction of Michael Jordan into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame set the pace for a weekend of unforgettable reunions and highlights, capped off by Grey Flannel’s $1.2 million Hall of Fame Auction held at Mohegan Sun resort in Uncasville, Conn.

NBA players suing Topps

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A dozen NBA players have filed a lawsuit against Topps contending that the company reneged on a contract to provid a set number of autographs for its trading card products.

Tristar announces initial National signing guests

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Tristar Productions, host of the Autograph Pavilion at the National Sports Collectors Convention for the 4th straight year, has announced the initial names of celebrities appearing at the National.

Companies Scramble to Capture Favre as a Jet

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Brett Favre is a wearing a different shade of green this football season - and card companies are scrambling to get that change into upcoming football card sets.

Beat The Blogger Contest To Offer Twice The Prizes

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A minor format change helped Tuff Stuff's Beat The Blogger game post a record turnout last week, and now contest organizers are looking to raise the bar with the prizes awarded to the winners. Starting this week, the prize given to each weekly winner will be determined by the number of entries.

Topps Adds Autographed Patch Cards to Finest

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Limited-edition rookie autographed cards give added punch to Topps Finest. Checklist included.

Jeter Makes Virtual World Debut At UpperDeckU.com

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter spent nearly an hour online connecting with kids around the world at Upper Deck’s new, burgeoning virtual world

Press Pass Signature FB returns

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Press Pass Signature Edition Football returns in 2009 with a stellar line-up of players that are ready to make their mark at the next level.

Collect.com Auctions latest sale live until Thursday

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions second Sports sale ends Thursday at 9 p.m. CST, with the 15-minute rule in effect for the entire auction. If you haven't registered yet, click HERE ( https://www.collect-auctions.com/adduser.aspx )
to do so.

Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly Launches New Site

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's still Tuffstuff.com, but what you'll find on the website has a new look and many new features to keep you coming back for more. Thanks for checking out the new site.

Topps teams with Sony for new gaming product

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sony Online Entertainment and Topps have announced an exclusive long-term licensing agreement allowing Topps to create a trading card game based on Sony’s upcoming online game, Free Realms

Upper Deck Announces Toronto Expo Plans

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck has announced its plans for the upcoming Toronto Expo, which includes a wrapper redemption program involving NHL “Priority Signings” autograph cards.

Donruss honors space missions with special set

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A new NASA exhibit has opened at the George Bush Presidential Library & Museum, and Donruss helped kick off the event by producing a special set of cards in its Americana brand.

Athlete wax figures to be auctioned

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hand-sculpted wax figures of Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Joe Montana, Mike Tyson and Muhammad Ali will be put up for auction on May 1.

Second player appearance added to Trade Conference

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brandon Tate, former WR for the University of North Carolina, and another top prospect in this year’s NFL Draft, will appear at the opening reception of next week’s Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition.

Dreams Inc joins forces with Baseball HOF

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Dreams, Inc. announced it has entered into a licensing relationship with the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum to provide the online components and products for the Hall of Fame’s Best-of-Class Fan Shop, as well as managing the Museum’s catalog business. The multi-year deal provides an expanded Hall of Fame product assortment as well as custom collectibles. This alliance is one more in a growing line of successful web syndications for Dreams, Inc. that includes Majestic Athletic, AOL, USA Today, Sporting News, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Washington Wizards and JCPenney.

Gulf Oil to Offer Cards, Other Collectibles

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Gulf Oil is giving kids another reason to shop conveninece stores – trading cards are back. Gulf Oil will offer NFL and MLB cards, plus other collectibles.

How to make an All-Star Vinyl Figure

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

See how one of today's most popular collectibles comes to life

Time for a base card makeover

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One of the biggest problems in this hobby is the base card. Except for the star players, the majority of base cards are worthless except for maybe the team a person collects. People just don’t like them.

Video Preview of Collect.com Auctions Debut Sale

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the first consignment deadline set for April 24, Collect.com Auctions already has a nice variety of items for its first sale in June. Check out the video preview of items in the first auction.

Tuff Stuff Looking For Collector/Athlete Stories

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If anybody has a story about meeting an athlete that was more than just waiting in an autograph line at a show but actually interaction, conversation, exchange of memorabilia, I'd love to hear about so we can share it with other collectors both in Tuff Stuff magazine and on our website www.tuffstuff.com.

Mets Delgado suing Long Island memorabilia dealer

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New York Mets First Baseman Carlos Delgado sued a Long Island sports memorabilia dealer for $2.4 million, claiming it dropped the ball on its exclusive contract.

Grey Flannel to offer free appraisals at hoops HOF

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Grey Flannel offering free sports appraisals at Basketball Hall of Fame

Theriot Collection Highlights Huggins & Scott Sale

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Phillies collection paces Huggins & Scott sale

Upper Deck to Launch Virtual Sports World for Kids

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck has announced the debut of a new, sports-themed virtual world for kids that marries physical trading cards to a massive, multi-player online gaming experience (MMOG). The new site – www.UpperDeckU.com – will offer boys and girls a place to share their passion for sports, competing, socializing and online game-play in a safe, fun-filled virtual world environment.

Hawaii/Mainland offering limited-time discount

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Organizers of this year’s Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition event are offering a special promotion for registrants. With each conference registration purchased, $100 will be discounted off each additional registration. The offer is good now through Feb. 20. This year’s event takes place April 20-22 in Palm Harbor, Fla.

House of Blues hosts record-breaking auction

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While there has been much discussion regarding the recent softening of the sports collecting market, no one seemed to be addressing it at the recent Legendary Auctions Live Sports Sale. In fact, more than 200 attendees at the high-end, sports memorabilia event, held July 31 at the House of Blues in Cleveland, Ohio, seemed more than happy to let their bid paddles do the talking.

Game-used infield dirt a popular collectible

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The increasing number of collectible products that incorporate game-used dirt from major league parks is the subject of a piece in the current issue of Street & Smith’s Sports Business Journal.

Consignment deadline approaching in next Collect.com Auction

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions is proud to announce Sports Auction #3, which will also be our first annual blue-chip auction, with an emphasis on high-end sports and entertainment collectibles.

Wanted: Your Hobby Horror Stories

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ever waited in line for three hours to get a collectible signed by your favorite athlete only to find out he's a big jerk when you finally get to meet him? Ever pay good money for that hard-to-find collectible that will complete your set only to get ripped off by an Internet pirate? We've all been there so we've decided to share our favorite "Hobby Horrors" with our fellow collectors.

Players from the NL East who will sign

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

This month we continue taking a look back at the 2008 baseball season and who signed and who did not by taking a look at the National League East.

Card licensing deals examined as part of class-action suit

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Terms of the licensing deals between trading card manufacturers and the NFL Players Association could play a role in the outcome of a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of more than 2,000 retired NFL players against the NFL Players Association in a dispute over royalties from video games, trading cards and other licensed sports products.

Panini signs exclusive deal with Naismith Basketball HOF

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panini America, Inc. is thrilled to announce an exclusive, multi-year marketing and licensing agreement with the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Panini is already the exclusive trading-card licensee for the NBA and this new relationship with the Hall of Fame expands its global basketball presence.

Donruss Dean Smith Redemptions Ready

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Redemption is for Dean Smith's 2007 Donruss Elite Extra Edition.

Heisman runner-ups cooperative signers

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As mentioned in a previous column, recent Heisman Trophy candidates can be tough autographs to acquire. This year, I’m having good luck with several of the best college players in the nation, including two that have been mentioned predominantly in the Heisman Trophy debate: Colt McCoy and Graham
Harrell.

Unopened Topps cello pack at Clean Sweep

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a sale that will include a complete T206 set, a T201 Double Folders set and single cards of T206 Cobb Portrait Red Background, 1913 Tom Barker Joe Jackson (PSA 8.5) and even an 1887 N28 Cap Anson, Steve Verkman of Clean Sweep Auctions said this will be his most diverse and well-balanced sale ever.

Set-building themes part of UD�s upcoming releases

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

During its meetings with retailers at last week’s Hawaii Trade Conference, Upper Deck officials said the company will still offer some of its most successful high-end products. But the main emphasis on the remainder of its 2009 product lineup will be on products with lower price points that cater to the interests of set builders.

NBA begins "Starting 5" trading card program

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has announced the start of the second annual “Starting 5” trading card promotion which challenges fans to collect the cards of five designated players for a chance to win a trip to the 2009 NBA All-Star Game in Phoenix*. This year’s Starting 5 lineup features Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard, Tony Parker and Chris Paul. Interested hobby shops can register between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15 to become a participating location for fans and collectors to enter the promotion.

UD sprinkles in new Exquisite BB into variety of sets

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Year in and year out, Upper Deck’s Exquisite line of trading cards delivers some of the most valuable rookie, memorabilia and autograph cards in the industry. In 2010, Upper Deck will debut a brand new Exquisite Baseball set, but it will not be released as a stand-alone product; instead, the special limited-edition set will be released throughout each of Upper Deck’s 2010 hobby baseball product launches.

Expose the Experts Rules

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rules for Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly's Expose the Experts Survey.

2009 MLB Rookie Preview: Who's Worth Chasing?

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With that said, the following preview guide will hopefully make it easier for you as fans and collectors to make an informed decision as to which young players to jump on board with. According to many experts, this is one of the finest groups of young talent to enter the majors in a several years.

MLBPA Seeks Hobby Shops for New Promotion

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The MLB Players Association has unveiled details of its latest hobby shop promotion, which will offer prizes to collectors such as Majestic baseball jerseys, autographed photos and other licensed products.

UD announces plans for Hockey season

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the NHL regular season nearly upon us, the Upper Deck Company – the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) and the National Hockey League’s (NHL) exclusive licensee of hockey trading cards – is pleased to announce its plans for the upcoming 2009-10 campaign. In addition to producing trading cards, which will include top rookie standouts including John Tavares, Victor Hedman and Matt Duchene, Upper Deck is pleased to provide details on some of its hobby-specific marketing programs.

Visit Collect.com Auctions in Philly, Chicago and Minneapolis

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions is proud to announce Sports Auction No. 3, which will also be our first annual blue-chip auction, with an emphasis on high-end sports and Americana collectibles.

Ali, Jordan, Woods sign unique �Legends� piece for UDA

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck Authenticated has introduced its first “Legends of Sport” triple-signed montage featuring sports icons Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods.

Mounted Memories to host two-day Mets reunion show

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mounted Memories will partner with MAB Celebrity Sports to host a two-day memorabilia show Nov. 8-9, celebrating three of the most notable years in New York Mets history – the team’s first squad from 1962, and its World Series championship teams of 1969 and 1986. The event will take place at the Crowne Plaza in Secaucus, N.J.

Retailers remain conservative with product orders

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As hobby shops throughout the country head into the final weeks of the year, many retailers are hoping for strong sales in the final weeks before Christmas.

Update: Topps Exclusive Baseball License

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Topps Company will become the exclusive trading card maker of Major League Baseball next year in a multiyear deal that appears to seriously hurt Upper Deck, its primary competitor in the once-vibrant business. By dropping Upper Deck, M.L.B. hopes that Topps, under Michael D. Eisner, the former chief executive of the Walt Disney Company, can invigorate card collecting, especially with young fans.

Upper Deck Readies Itself for 30th National

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Just in time to coincide with MLB’s trading deadline of July 31, Upper Deck is preparing to entertain the masses at the National Sports Collectors Convention at the International Exposition Center in Cleveland. This year’s event, from July 29 through August 2, marks the 30th running of the nation’s largest sports collectibles and memorabilia show.

Donruss to Offer Madden '09 Cards at 7-Eleven Stores

Mon, 18 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's the 20th anniversary of the Madden NFL video game, and that means there are big promotions under way – including Donruss and EA Sports getting Madden cards into the popular convenience store chain.

Magic Monikers Two show featuring diverse signers

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A diverse lineup of autograph guests will take part in this weekend’s (Dec. 12-14) Magic Monikers Two show, produced by MAB Celebrity Sports.

1952 Mantle Jersey, 1926-29 Ruth Bat Help Grey Flannel Reach $1.4 Million in Summer Games Auction

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fierce competition in Grey Flannel’s April 29 Summer Games auction kept phone lines and the Internet buzzing till the final bid was lodged around 5 a.m. the following day.

Clean and Ready to Shine: MLB's best hobby bets

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In this era of performance-enhanced players and age-challenged prospects, baseball continues to dance a fairly careful step around its star players and stars in the making. Who’s clean, who’s lying, who’s the public to trust? Perhaps most of all, who do we turn to as our new heroes?

High-end memorabilia remains a stabilizing force in the hobby

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It might seem odd, the common senses plead, that pricey sports collectibles could have a budding market at a time when a deep recession threatens the world economy. But in times of financial peril, higher-end sports memorabilia tends to find itself in a surprising bull market. When all else fails, adding rare, limited-edition and vintage sports treasures to your portfolio has proven to be a fairly sound investment.

Athlete Encounters Part II

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It was Home Run Derby day at the 2002 MLB All-Star Game in Milwaukee when an inexperienced sports writer made his way down to the field for the first time. He came into the event with high expectations and an even higher level of excitement because this was his first trip to The Show after all, and he wanted to make the best of it.

$100,000 advertising poster found at estate sale

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A rare, 1889 baseball card advertising poster, with an estimated auction value of more than $100,000, has been discovered at an estate sale in Upstate New York, and will be auctioned in May by Lelands.com.

Highland Mint creates pair of Celtics PhtoMints

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Highland Mint has released two PhotoMints honoring the raising of the Boston Celtics 2008 NBA championship banner.

Memory Lane to Offer an Unmatched Wagner

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While a certain T206 Honus Wagner gets all of the headlines, there might be even a more coveted cardboard representation of the great player in the upcoming Memory Lane auction - a 1910 Standard Caramel E93 Honus Wagner graded PSA9! Psst, it's the only one to ever get that grade. Sale ends Sept. 13!

Bowman Sterling Football Manufacturing Error

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Master boxes released with seven autographs instead of eight. See how to get that eighth auto!

Panini official says Donruss acquisition isn�t a done deal

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Officials at Panini deny reports that the company has finalized a deal to purchase Donruss.
“We are in discussion, but nothing has been finalized,” said Panini’s Peter Warsop.

Topps, UFC Sign Card Deal

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topps and The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) have reach an agreement for Topps to produce cards and stickers through 2011.

T206 Wagner sells fro $925k

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Memory Lane Inc. has announced the record-setting sale of what is considered the most iconic baseball card in the sports collecting hobby, the T206 Honus Wagner. The professionally authenticated card rated a grade of 40 (very good) by Sportscard Guaranty and sold for $925,000. It is the highest price paid for a Wagner card in this condition and the third highest recorded price ever paid for a baseball card of any kind.

Women Finds 139-year-old Baseball Card

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Last summer, Bernice Gallego pulled an old baseball card from a box of antiques. She figured it might be worth something to someone, so she listed it on eBay. The starting bid was $10.

New Product Pricing Now Available

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

You asked for it and now you've got it: Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly is now offering NEW card pricing online. As we price it, you can have it – before it appears in the magazine. All major sports will be included, with new additions added regularly.

Tuff Stuff's Expose The Experts Survey

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly is now offering your chance to put the experts in their place and prove that you're just as knowledgeable as any of the so-called "experts." Take our survey, take down our experts and win big.

Remarkable Rare Find Of 1934 Demaree Die-Cuts

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A few months ago, a hard-working Wisconsin man looked under a bed and found 109 of some of the rarest baseball cards ever issued. I’ll call the man “Ken.” The cards are known in the hobby as the 1934 R304 Al Demaree Die-Cuts by Dietz Gum Co. of Chicago. I once described these cards as coming around about as often as eclipses. Before everyone starts looking under their beds, there is a bit more to the story, including why this obscure set is so interesting.

Highland Mint has issued NHL Team Force PhotoMints

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Highland Mint has issued NHL Team Force PhotoMints, featuring an 8-by-10 photo of the team’s top players, a 24kt gold-plated team coin and a 24kt gold-plated NHL coin.

Crook caught with Favre helmet

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A thief in North and South Carolina had been eluding authorities for more than two years.

Limited-Edition RC featured in Topps Finest Football

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

RCs inserted into Topps Finest Football

Upper Deck unveils new virtual collecting, gaming site

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck will use the launch of its 2009 Upper Deck Baseball product to coincide with the launch of a new sports-themed website for kids that marries physical trading cards to a multi-player online gaming experience.

Grandstand Sports Signs Michael Phelps to Exclusive Deal

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Olympic hero has been the most popular possible pitchman to come on the scene in a long time. So Grandstand Sports hit one out of the park by inking Michael Phelps to a exclusive one-year deal for his autographed memorabilia.

Topps National VIP Cards Continue Tradition 1959 Retro Cards Featured

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Topps Company continues a very popular tradition at the 30th National Sports Collectors Convention. Leaning on their long history, the 2009 Topps VIP Cards will be a 50th Anniversary version in the style of their 1959 issue. The cards in the set include "Cards That Never Were" also continuing a trend.

Steiner signers marketing deal with Cowboys

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In another professional franchise venture for Steiner Sports, the company signs a deal with the Dallas Cowboys.

HOFer kicked off card show guest list

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kentucky senator and Hall of Fame pitcher Jim Bunning was kicked off the schedule for autograph guests at the Gibraltar Trade Center show Dec. 13-14 in Taylor, Mich., because the show’s promoter was upset that Bunning voted against an auto industry loan package in the U.S. Senate On Dec. 11.

UD rolls out promotion for first Cut Signature set

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Krause Publications launches Collect.com Auctions

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions, powered by Krause Publications, is currently taking consignments for its inaugural sale, slated to be held June 18. “We have the in-house experience, expertise and infrastructure to put this in place,” said Dean Listle, Sports Division publisher for Krause Publications, a division of F+W Media.

O.J. denied chance for second trial

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

O.J. Simpson was denied a new trial by the judge who oversaw his conviction in the gunpoint robbery of two sports memorabilia dealers in a Las Vegas hotel room.

Tuff Stuff's Holiday Gift Guide

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Oh, ho-ho-ho, what to buy the sports collector for the holidays? Or better yet, what to buy for yourself? We all know it’s very difficult when you find that perfect gift for a friend or loved one, only to realize you really, really want that piece of memorabilia for your own collection.

LA Sports Museum adds Olympic items

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The recently opened Sports Museum of Los Angeles was presented with 34 Beijing Olympic Games posters in a special ceremony at the museum Dec. 8

Beckett expands grading options

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Beckett Grading Services is now grading 1983-86 Star Company basketball cards.

Super Bowl Studs

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Are collectors influenced by the results of each Super Bowl? Tuff Stuff’s Sports Collectors Monthly magazine spoke with various regional hobby shops to determine if this is, in fact, a true phenomenon.

Donruss creates Pro Bowl set

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss has created a 10-card set that will be distributed to VIPs and fans attending various events surrounding this this weekend’s Pro Bowl in Honolulu

National plans events for family entertainment

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new event that began last year at the National Sports Collectors Convention will be brought along to Cleveland. Sunday, Aug. 2 will be Cleveland Plain Dealer Family Day. A family of four will be able to enter the show for only $25, with tickets available at the I-X Center.

Press Pass to produce exclusive National set

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Press Pass, the leading manufacturer of NASCAR trading cards, has announced their VIP set for the 30th National Sports Collectors Convention July 29-August 2, 2009 at the I-X Center in Cleveland. VIPs will receive an exclusive 6-card Press Pass VIP NASCAR set

Upper Deck responds to new card licensing agreement

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck Series Two Baseball now live

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Building on the success of its Series One counterpart, Upper Deck’s 2009 Series Two Baseball is live. Each hobby box includes two memorabilia cards and one autograph card, with some boxes also featuring a 20th Anniversary box-topper that will include an additional memorabilia or autograph card from the last 20 years’ worth of Upper Deck Baseball releases.

An Anytime Classic: Vintage Topps All-Star subsets

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

From 1959-62, Major League Baseball had two All-Star games per year and Topps continued with All-Star collections finishing out the sets in every year but 1962.

MLBPA renews baseball license with Upper Deck

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

After 20 years in the baseball card market, The Upper Deck Company has been granted a new trading card license agreement with the Major League Baseball Players Association.

Schulte Auctions debuts with May sale

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ray Schulte, president and CEO of Schulte Sports, announced the launch of SchulteAuctions.com. Schulte, well ingrained in the licensing, marketing and business of sports memorabilia, will conduct online sports and entertainment auctions that will provide collectors the opportunity to buy and sell signed and unsigned sports and pop-culture memorabilia.

Steiner Creates Collectible Commemorating Jeter Record

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On the heels of Derek Jeter eclipsing Lou Gehrig for the Yankees all-time hits record Sept. 11, Steiner Sports Memorabilia, the industry leader in authentic hand-signed collectibles, will be offering fans a wide array of customized products that celebrate this historic achievement.

Heisman winners touring Nebraska for signing tour

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In a rare collaboration between two fairly heated college football rivalries, six Heisman Trophy winners from Nebraska and Oklahoma will autograph limited-edition footballs that will carry the Heisman logo and those from the two schools.

Hall of Fame to Honor Yankee Stadium

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The final game was played at Yankee Stadium, but the memories will live on forever. And you can relive some of those memories at the Hall of Fame, which acquired many pieces from the historic last game.

Unreadable signatures need to go

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I was at my local shop a few weeks ago for a signing from Seattle Seahawks NFL rookie Owen Schmitt, who went to college at West Virginia University. I purchased a football and an 8-by-10 to get signed and waited for my turn. It was a decent crowd, but it only took me 20 minutes or so to reach the table. After a quick greeting – and a funny comparison of hairstyles (we both have Mohawks) – I went to check out my autos. The signatures were great. Nice gold lettering, perfect signatures and smudge free.

Third Collector Conquers Yankee Stadium Legacy Set

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A third collector has been successful in his efforts to complete Upper Deck’s 6,600-card Yankee Stadium Legacy insert set. Kent Hayes of Sacramento, Calif., had his set verified as being complete by company officials last week.

Upper Deck rewards YSL winners with Jeter meeting

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

They traveled to the Big Apple from as far away as Panama, Sacramento, Calif., Little Rock, Ark., Pensacola, Fla., and Largo, Fla. “They” were the five Yankee Stadium Legacy (YSL) contest winners that got to meet New York Yankees team captain Derek Jeter after piecing together Upper Deck’s 6,661-card insert set from 2008 which chronicled every Yankees home game ever played at the old Yankee Stadium.

Panini redemption set for The National

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the National celebrating its 30th Anniversary at the end of the month, officials at Panini America are excited to announce their plans for the show. While some of the faces may look familiar, the new Panini colors will be on display for the first time in Cleveland at the National Sports Collectors Convention.

MMA star at BlowOutCards.com Booth at National

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Check out MMA star Rich Franklin at the BlowOutCards booth at The National.

Topps Signs Prospect Buster Posey

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Topps announced it has signed minor league catching prospect Buster Posey to an autograph deal. Posey was the fifth overall pick by the San Francisco Giants in the 2008 draft.

Dealer charged with fraud, other misdeeds

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Collectibles dealer Roger Hooper has been a targeted person by experts in the hobby for years. Now he's facing some charges based on his practices, including fraud.

LeBron adds inscriptions to UD insert cards

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck’s upcoming basketball releases will feature LeBron James autograph cards that include special inscriptions.

Tuff Stuff Looking For Collector/Athlete Stories

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We recently asked our readers to tell us about there favorite Athlete Encounters and because of the amazing response we got, we're taking more of you submissions. While a chance encounter is exactly that, great stories recalling interaction between collectors and athletes happen all the time but don't always get noticed by the rest of those in the hobby. Well, as editor of Tuff Stuff magazine, I'd like to change that and you can help.

McWilliam: NBA wanted �enormous financial commitment�

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In an e-mail sent to collectors who are members of Upper Deck’s Diamond Club – a VIP group of the company’s biggest spenders – Upper Deck Chairman Richard McWilliam said he didn’t want to speculate on all of the factors that contributed to the NBA’s decision to choose Panini as its exclusive trading card licensee.

NBA explains decision to go with Panini

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The opportunity to expand sales overseas and the simple notion that it needed to move its trading card business in a new direction were the NBA’s primary factors in choosing Panini to become its exclusive trading card licensee, according to the league’s senior director of trading cards and memorabilia.

Blow Out Cards and Sports Card Forum Reach an Advertising and Marketing Agreement

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

BlowOutCards.com, the leading seller of sports card and entertainment boxes on the internet and SportsCardForum.com, the world’s largest and most active Sports Card Community have joined forces for a one year advertisement and promotional deal. The financial terms of the deal are not disclosed. The deal includes special weekly promotions and marketing agreements coordinated between the two companies.

Head of the Class: Henderson Hall bound

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Rickey thinks Rickey is a Hall of Famer. At least, that’s what baseball’s stolen base champ would likely say about his Cooperstown chances. And it would be difficult to argue with the fleet-footed superstar who often talks about himself in the third person.

UDA Unveils New Limited Edition Jordan Collectible

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With six NBA championships, five league MVP awards and 10 scoring titles, Michael Jordan is arguably the greatest basketball player in NBA history. As the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame prepares to enshrine “Air Jordan” this week, Upper Deck Authenticated (UDA), the memorabilia division of the Upper Deck Company, is proud to unveil the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls Floor Collection, a product line featuring actual pieces from the legendary United Center floor where history was made.

Press Pass to unveil Element brand in 2009

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Press Pass, Inc. announces a new NASCAR trading card brand: Element, arriving in January 2009.

Sports Museum of L.A. limiting operating hours

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Low attendance has forced Cypres to limit operating hours to groups of 15 or more, or for groups looking to host private functions.

It's official: Panini buys Donruss

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Officials at Panini have now confirmed they have bought Donruss, while also announcing that its new subsidiary, Panini America Inc., will be stationed in Dallas.

Can Chipper Jones Swing His Way to the Record Books?

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

He's still in the hunt for a .400 batting average. He has a good shot at the Hall of Fame. But how are his cards doing?

How to catch a thief

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Thieves, robbers, stealers, criminals, rip-off artists, pirates – whatever moniker is placed on them, this seedy element still exists at card shows, both big and small, all across the country.

UD inks Wade to autograph deal

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck has signed Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade to an exclusive autographed memorabilia deal.

Rare set headlines Collect.com Auctions sale

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What may well be the sole surviving complete set of 1898-99 National Copper Plate Co. player pictures has been consigned to, and will undoubtedly prove to be the featured lot in the Collect.com Auctions sports card and memorabilia sale that ends June 18.

UD Black Hockey Rookie Exchange Cards

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Some of the lineup is announced – two studs included.

Goodwin featuring 1-of-1 cardboard kings

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The list of turn-of-the-century and early candy and gum treasures being offered in the Sept. 17 Goodwin and Co. Auction is as imposing as the players themselves. With literally dozens of highly coveted cards ranging from Ed Delehanty to Babe Ruth and Stan Musial, the sale showcases a vast array of cards that are either 1-of-1’s or of a handful, including a number of set registry standouts as well.

NHL Rookie Photo Shoot

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On Aug. 26, the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario was transformed into the site of Upper Deck’s inaugural NHL Rookie Debut Photo Shoot. As with previous Upper Deck rookie shoots with top freshman talent entering the NBA and NFL, this week’s hockey version sported the best of the NHL’s finest young guns prepping to make their on-ice debuts as professionals.

Griffin, Hansbrough signing for free at Paninis National booth

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Officials at Panini America announced that both Blake Griffin and Tyler Hansbrough will be signing free autographs at their corporate booth at the National Sports Collectors Convention which runs through Sunday in Cleveland. Panini America will be handing out coupons throughout the week allowing collectors the chance to meet the NBA rookies on Saturday and Sunday.

Bartman appearance �won�t happen� at National

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bartman not coming to National

Topps continues Allen & Ginter tradition

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topps will continue its Allen & Ginter Super Bowl Champions set with a new wave of cards that will only be available via eTopps.

Buying Into baseball's badboys

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Will the current time in baseball we call “the steroid era” be less collectible on the whole than, say the dead-ball era, the crazy 1980s or just the same? Fifty years from now, young fans of the game will probably look back at the late 1990s and early 2000s as quaint, bygone days where people took their records – even the most hallowed ones will fall at least once, if not several times, between now and then – a bit too seriously.

Panini moved swiftly in efforts to acquire Donruss

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At about the same time the NBA announced it had selected Panini as its exclusive trading card licensee for the next four seasons, officials from the company say they began looking into the prospects of acquiring Donruss as a way to bring an experienced trading card sales, design and production team on board.

Topps launches 3-D Live virtual reality baseball cards

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Starting today, visitors to the ToppsTown.com website will have a new and high-tech way to play with their baseball cards. Cards from the first series of Topps Baseball and the new Topps Attax card game that feature special digital codes can now be used to view a 3-D “augmented reality” image of the player.

Mays scheduled to appear at Tri-Star show

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Willie Mays will appear as an autograph guest at the Tristar Productions show, May 1-3, at the Cow Palace in San Francisco.

Mighty Fine Nines: Topps decade-ending sets worth a look

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When Ted Williams, legendary slugger and student of hitting, labeled hurler Early Wynn “the toughest pitcher I ever faced,” one had to honor his opinion.
In 1959, both of those career American Leaguers and Hall of Famers celebrated their 20-year anniversaries of reaching the majors.
Williams must have felt he was batting against Wynn on most days in 1959, his second to last season, because he struggled to hit .254, his worst average ever.

Dreams Inc. continues to expand

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The market for licensed sports merchandise worldwide is an estimated $17 billion, and Dreams, Inc., hopes to expand its share of that market with a new purchasing and shipping option for international customers in 34 different countries on its FansEdge.com website.

NFLPA seeks to have licensing verdict overturned

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Retired NFL players are seeing the dollars flowing to the current generation from trading card companies, video games and other resources and they're wondering where there cut is.

Mantle gamer highlights next ZHeritage Auction Galleris sale

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A Mickey Mantle game-used gray road jersey from 1966 will be among the highlights of Heritage Auction Galleries’ April 24 Signature Sports Collectibles Auction.

2008 sales declined for 78 percent of hobby shops

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 78 percent of all hobby retailers reported a decline in gross sales last year, according to the results of Card Trade’s 12th annual retailer survey. That figure represents a significant jump from the 47 percent who reported a decline in 2007. Profits declined at more than 73 percent of all stores.

MLBPAs Big League Blast promo underway

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Big League Blast hobby shop promotion sponsored by the MLBPA is underway.

NLFPA's Upshaw dies at 63

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hall of Famer and longtime executive director of the NFLPA died on Aug. 20.

Q&A With Jock Smith: Pioneering Lawyer is Also a Pioneering Collector

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Jock Smith is as comfortable in a court room as he is in line at a sports memorabilia show. The pioneering lawyer is also a pioneering colector of jerseys – and he owns some of the best in the world.

ESPNs Reilly Rips Jordan HOF speech

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Jordan's Hall of Fame talk was the Exxon Valdez of speeches. It was, by turns, rude, vindictive and flammable. And that was just when he was trying to be funny. It was tactless, egotistical and unbecoming. When it was done, nobody wanted to be like Mike.

Record revenues highlight latest Dreams report

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Dreams Inc. continues to expand its business

Mastro reports nearly $3 million in sales from NYC event

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mastro Auctions’ second live sports auction of 2008 generated nearly $3 million in sales.

Maximizing Your Thru-The-Mail Success Rate

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Every month I receive e-mails from readers asking me how they can maximize their success rate when receiving autographs through the mail. Here are some helpful tips and things to keep in mind when writing to athletes or celebrities for their signature:

Collect.com Auctions preparing for next Premium sale

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions is proud to announce Sports Auction #3, which will also be our first annual Premium Auction, with an emphasis on high-end sports and entertainment collectibles. We are currently accepting consignments for the Premium Auction. We are particularly looking for complete vintage card sets, collections and sports collectibles with values of more than $10,000 for this auction.

Tiger, Buybacks in 2009 Goudey

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 edition of Goudey will feature Tiger Woods' autograph in the Sports Royalty series and original buybacks.

Fanball acquires live Fantasy events

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fanball, the premier provider of online fantasy sports contests, content, strategy and insight, announced the acquisition of the fantasy sports properties from F+W Media, Inc. – including the National Fantasy Football Championship and National Fantasy Baseball Championship contests as well as Fantasy Sports Magazine and the company's fantasy sports custom publications division.

Tuff Stuff Price Guide Online Soon at Sports Card Forum

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you're attending The National Sports Collectors' Convention July 29-August 2, there's something you need to check out. Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly will be testing its online price guide in conjunction with Sports Card Forum.

1953 and 1954 Red Man Sets in Collect.com Auctions Debut Sale

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

If you enjoy classic tobacco cards, you'll enjoy the 1953 and 1954 Red Man sets that will be a part of the Collect.com Auctions sale.

Upper Deck must stop production of certain sets

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In the latest court decision in the Topps vs. Upper Deck battle over the alleged use of copied card designs, a judge will allow Upper Deck to sell its existing inventory of 2009 Series One and Two Baseball, 2009 O-Pee-Chee Baseball and 2008-09 O-Pee-Chee Hockey sets – but not for long. Upper Deck will then have to stop production and distribution within four weeks and won’t be able to promote the cards that are named in the suit, according to court documents filed June 18.

UD prepared to make good on �Historic Firsts Predictors� pick

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In February, inside its 2009 Upper Deck Series One Baseball product, the Upper Deck Company released a nine-card insert set entitled: “Historic Firsts Predictors.” The sports card giant made nine bold predictions and stated that if any of them came true during the course of 2009 that it would “do something big.”

NCAA Tourney primed with future stars to chase

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

College hoops fanatics can get a jump on the tournament by mailing out requests to your favorite players in care of their college’s athletic departments. Not all schools will forward the mail, but many will. Collecting college basketball signatures is a great way to follow the tournament.

Obama cards hot sellers during inauguration ceremonies

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thomas Fish, owner of BlowoutCards.com, was one of an estimated 500 vendors who were set up in Washington, D.C., January 21 selling items to those attending the Inauguration ceremonies.

Premier auction features plenty of diversity

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

One huge consigned collection will lead to endless possibilities for collectors of virtually any niche area as Premier Auctions continues its 1,700-lot September Signature Sale.

Upgrading Your Videos

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Thousands of sports memorabilia videos can be seen on the popular website YouTube (www.Youtube.com). Unfortunately, many of the videos contain little or no “production” value, which makes them difficult to watch.

True, some collectors might not have the time or the inclination or the basic equipment to produce a more polished piece. But, with a modest amount of effort, a more professional video can be achieved.

Donruss to be title sponsor of Super Bowl Card Show

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Super Bowl Card Show will again be a part of the upcoming NFL Experience event in Tampa. But this time, it will have a new sponsor.
Donruss has assumed the title sponsorship of this year’s event, which takes place Jan. 24-25, and Jan. 29-31 adjacent to Raymond James Stadium.

Athlete Encounters Part I In A Series

Wed, 20 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The following Athlete Encounters are from readers and staff members recalling their best and worst brushes with greatness. We hope you enjoy them as much as the people who experienced them. If you have an encounter you would like to share, click here and give us the details so we can use them in a future issue.

Donruss releases final '08 baseball product

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss will ship its fourth and final baseball release for the 2008 season – Playoff Contenders Baseball – on Feb. 4.

Pujols Fueling Record Sales, Attendance at FanFest

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

St. Louis is a baseball-crazed city, and the rabid interest in any collectibles related to hometown favorite Albert Pujols has driven sales of cards, memorabilia and other licensed merchandise during the first three days of Major League Baseball’s All-Star FanFest.

Bonderman brings him back into the hobby

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I've been collecting baseball cards since around 1979, back then my friends and I traded cards
on the weekend. We never really valued the cards like I do now-a-days, heck we put them in our
bicycle spokes as noise makers. I collected for around six or seven years and always enjoyed the
hobby. My collecting stopped in 1987 when at the age of 17 I joined the US Army for three years.

Memory Lane to Showcase Mantle Collection at National

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Memory Lane Inc. will offer the first public showing of the finest known collection of Mickey Mantle baseball cards during this year’s National Sports Collectors Convention.

Kobe Bryant tops NBA jersey sales

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kobe Bryant tops this year’s list of most popular NBA jerseys, a spot held last year by the Boston Celtics’ Kevin Garnett.

Jeter to make live appearance at UpperDeckU

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On June 16, New York Yankees Captain Derek Jeter will make a “live” appearance at UpperDeckU, fielding questions from kids across the country who are members of Upper Deck’s online virtual community.

Sports Museum of L.A. Ready for Opening

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

There may a very small number of individuals with a sports memorabilia collection more impressive than that of Los Angeles-based businessman Gary Cypres. But none of them can boast of a more impressive facility to showcase it.

T206 Set Headlines Huggins & Scott's May Sale

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brock�s Personal Collection to Steal Spotlight in Legendary Auctions Sale

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sports Card Forum Charity Drive

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Our partner Sports Card Forum is ramping up a charity drive on its website. For those who sign up for Premium or VIP Membership, all of the proceeds will go to Make a Wish Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, American Red Cross or Susan B. Komen for a Cure – your choice!

Advertising piece highlights Legendary Auctions sale

Fri, 08 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary Auctions held its debut sale with a key advertising piece among the top draws. This was the first sale run by former Mastro employees under the Legendary Auctions banner.

UD NFL Rookie video gaining momentum

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Upper Deck 2009 NFL Rookie Touchdown Dance Challenge video is getting viral and has more than 68,000 views in less than a week.

Panini To Host First NBA Rookie Photo Shoot

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot will feature more than 30 of the NBA’s top rookies who will be photographed by Panini for their very first NBA trading cards. Panini, the new exclusive trading card partner of the NBA, will begin to produce NBA trading cards, stickers and sticker albums for the first time this season.

FansEdge Sports Spectacular Offers Deals to Attract Collectors

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Welcome to the first annual FansEdge Sports Spectacular set for July 16-19 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention center in Rosemont, Ill., a big-time production that features a massive and star-quality autograph lineup, family activities and Price Rollback Friday.

Boise State star to appear at Hawaii/Mainland reception

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Former Boise State running back Ian Johnson, who is expected to be an early round pick in this year’s NFL Draft, will sign free autographs April 20 for registered attendees during the opening reception of the Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition.

Former quarterback sues Electronic Arts, NCAA

Thu, 14 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Former Arizona State University and Nebraska quarterback Samuel Michael Keller has filed a lawsuit in California against video game maker Electronic Arts and the NCAA for the “blatant and unlawful use of National Collegiate Athletic Association student-athlete likenesses in video games produced by Electronic Arts.” The Collegiate Licensing Co. is also named in the suit.

Hobby Royalty Series: Christy Matthewson

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

My connection to Christy Mathewson is a bit unconventional. I lived in the same town where he died, Saranac Lake, N.Y., and did my banking at the same bank that he did. I even interviewed an old guy who remembered him from the days that Mathewson visited the barber shop in the tiny Adirondack Village. He spoke most frequently about the great pitcher’s unmatched skill at checkers rather than recalling his baseball exploits.

Draft class struts its stuff at Rookie Premiere

Wed, 27 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thirty-five members of the 2009 Draft Class gathered in Los Angeles May 15-17, donning their professional uniforms for the first time at the Reebok NFL Players Rookie Premiere Presented by EA Sports.

Second collector completes Yankees Stadium set

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck has confirmed a second collector has completed its 6,661-card Yankee Stadium Legacy set.

More than 300 stores to particpate in NBA's Starting 5 promo

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NBA reports that 300 hobby shops in the U.S. and Canada will participate in this year’s Starting 5 promotion. Merchandising kits for the promotion are now being mailed to stores.

Redemptions, games part of UD�s NFL Experience

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck will once again be a part of the NFL Experience Super Bowl card show held Jan. 24-25 and Jan. 29-Feb. 1.

Bob Gibson Collection to be Sold Via Auction

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Legendary Auctions announced that it has been selected to sell the collection of historic artifacts from Bob Gibson, the respected and much-honored former St. Louis Cardinals pitcher.

Steiner inks Univ. of Alabama to marketing deal

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Crimson Tide Sports Marketing, the University of Alabama, CBS College Sports and Steiner Sports announced the formation of Alabama Collectibles by Steiner Sports. Steiner Sports’ director of collegiate partnerships Pete Kelly joined Brad Hattendorf, director, University Relations – South East Region in making the announcement last week.

Sharing Memories The Focus Of Braves Reunion

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s been 60 years since their last championship season, but for the Boston Braves and their fans, the memories are still vivid – with new memories still forming today. That was the framework during the 17th annual reunion of the Boston Braves Historical Association (BBHA), where the 1948 pennant-winning season and some of the players on that National League championship team returned to bask in history’s spotlight.

UD set to launch grand slam of activities at FanFest Show

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While Major League Baseball’s National League All-Stars prepare themselves to try and win their first Mid-Summer Classic since 1996, the Upper Deck Company is readying itself to entertain the tens of thousands of baseball card enthusiasts who will invade St. Louis’s America’s Center Convention Complex from Friday, July 10, through Tuesday, July 14, for the popular MLB FanFest show.

Upper Deck VIP Set Features Current and Past Superstars

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

VIPs at the 30th National being held July 29-August 2 at the I-X Center in Cleveland, Ohio, are in for a great treat. The Upper Deck Company will provide a 10-card VIP Set which has something for everyone. Featuring superstars from the past as well as current greats, the Upper Deck VIP set crosses all four major sports.

McFarlane makes changes to variants

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Pay attention to the details – McFarlane announces changes to its variant figures.

Lemke Returns as Standard Catalog Editor

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The return of Bob Lemke to the Standard Catalog of Baseball Cards, the hobby “bible” that he edited for most of its 19 editions, has been announced by Dean Listle, sports publisher for F&W Media.

Panini may release only 12 NBA products next year

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sal LaRocca, the NBA’s executive VP of global merchandising, told CNBC.com that the league would like to have Panini release as few as 12 trading card products next season under its new exclusive trading card license.

PSA's Orlando pens collectibles book

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A visually impressive new book, Collecting Sports Legends – The Ultimate Hobby Guide by sports collectibles expert, Joe Orlando, is the first of its kind to blend career highlights of America’s top sports stars from yesteryear to today with some of the hobby’s best memorabilia related to them.

Feast of First-Rate Football

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Need something to chase in the football market? How about 1960s gridiron inserts?

Trustee seeks dismissal of Global bankruptcy case

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The government trustee overseeing the Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition of Global Authentication has filed a motion asking the U.S. Bankruptcy Court to dismiss the petition, saying the parent company of the sports card and autograph authentication firm has failed to meet some of the obligations required of a debtor during a bankruptcy proceeding.

Big League Blast promotion a big hit with retailers

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

New company enters market with celebrity card set

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The next celebrity-themed card set to hit the market won’t be coming from an established card maker. Instead, it will be from a new company started by a former show business agent. PopCardz is scheduled to arrive in stores next month. The set is the brainchild of Ted Kurie and Christian Troy, the latter of whom was a former agent at Creative Artists Agency.

2009 Press Pass Legends Football Providing More

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Press Pass Inc. has announced that they are introducing their own “Hobby Stimulus” package in Press Pass Legends FB this year.

2009 Topps UFC Cards Coming July 6

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The next UFC trading card set, 2009 Topps UFC will contain two autographs and two relic cards in every hobby box. The 150 base card set will feature 100 stars, 40 stars seen for the first time on a Topps card and 10 personalities.

Rookies, autographs fueling increase in WNBA sales

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Candance Parker leads a powerful rookie class in the WNBA, helping to fuel card sales, as well.

Collector conquers UD Yankee Stadium Legacy set

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

An Arkansas collector completes Upper Deck’s 6,661-card Yankee Stadium Legacy insert set.

DNA cards mentioned in NY Times story

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Nov. 19 Wall Street Journal featured a story about insert cards featuring strands of hair from historical figures.

PSA offering T206 Exhibit, Free Poster at 2009 National

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) and PSA/DNA Authentication Services will have a multi-million dollar exhibit of T206 Hall of Fame players’ cards and offer a free commemorative poster of the T206 set during the 30th National Sports Collectors Convention in Cleveland, Ohio.

O.J. transferred to medium-security prison

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A state corrections official says O.J. Simpson has arrived at a Nevada prison.

Stafford, Sanchez cards leading the way

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Being the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft gets a player a lot of money and attention. The same usually goes for a top pick's cards. In the September 2009 issue of Beckett Sports Card Monthly, Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford had 13 of the top 50 football cards on the market – Nos. 2, 5, 11, 14, 24, 31, 35, 36, 40, 43, 44, 47 and 48.

Fans were spending at Donruss Super Bowl Card Show

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss officials said they were extremely happy with the turnout at this year’s Super Bowl Card Show, the first held under the company’s sponsorship.

Sharing Memories The Focus Of Braves Reunion

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

REA's Remarkable high-grade vintage card find

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Rob Lifson is like the boy who cried wolf, except that every time he makes that particular pronouncement, there really is something lurking about that Little Red Riding Hood needs to be concerned about. So when Lifson says, “This is one of the most miraculous finds in the history of the hobby,” you might want to sit up in your chair and take notice.

Interview with paper expert in Wagner card flap

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The drama surrounding the T206 Wagner card that experts feel is not authentic is gorwing thanks to ESPN. But we have an interview with the paper expert who says the card could date to the proper time period.

Tuff Stuff's Online Price Guides Now Updated

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

You wanted it and we delivered. Because we want to make www.tuffstuff.com your one and only source for updated pricing on Baseball, Football, Basketball and Hockey cards, we've just concluded a major overhaul of our online pricing database and we're proud to give you the updated pricing FREE OF CHARGE. Unlike the competition, Tuff Stuff's Sports Collectors Monthly rewards its readers with exactly what they want and updated online pricing was No. 1 on that list so here you go. To check out the latest updated online pricing for Baseball, Football and Hockey cards, click here.

Donruss to distribute cards at Super Bowl

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Donruss will once again be distributing thousands of trading card packs to kids at the Pop Warner Super Bowl week, taking place now through Saturday at Disney’s Wide World of Sports in Orlando.

Two More Complete Yankee Stadium Legacy Set

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Talk about cutting it close. When Leo Wiznitzer of Panama City, Panama, heard about the grand prize associated with Upper Deck’s Yankee Stadium Legacy (YSL) Collection promotion – having lunch with Yankees Team Captain Derek Jeter – he found new incentive to complete his card-collecting odyssey.

Collectible Classics CCA25 Auction Now live

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Autographs of Steve Prefontaine, Lou Gehrig, Turkey Stearns and Walter Johnson, a rare Batter-Up premium , a scarce 1888 book on New York baseball and a high-quality 1938 Churchman “Boxing Personalities” set are among the highlights of Collectible Classics’ CCA25 auction.

Vick falls out of favor with collectors

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

REA Offering Sy Berger Collection

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to finding some of the most memorabilia related to sports cards, sometimes the most obvious place to look is the one place we don't. The original art from the 1953 Topps set is in the Sy Berger collection, and pieces from Berger's collection are going on the block.

The Impossible Dream: Owning a unique set of cards

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Have you ever imagined what it might feel like to own a set of trading cards that no one else owns except you? An obscure set of cards that is so rare that very few collectors would know what these cards look like. The thought is exhilarating.

Spring Training Autograph Jackpots

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Most sports fans aren’t thinking about peanuts and crackerjacks when they are buried up to their knees in winter snow, but Feb. 14 is more than just a Hallmark holiday for your sweetie; it’s the official day for pitchers and catchers to report to spring training. Bust out your Sharpies, boys, baseball is about to kick off across Arizona and Florida, and for many collectors, the next few weeks might be your only shot at hard-to-get veterans and prospects.

NHL Wants Continued Consistency in Card Sales

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The NHL is hoping for another good year in card sales, building off of the momentum gained in 2007, despite tough economic times.

NFL antitrust suit headed to Supreme Court

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Supreme Court will hear an appeal from American Needle Inc., of Buffalo Grove, Ill., which filed an antitrust lawsuit to an agreement the NFL struck with Reebok International Ltd. American Needle manufactured NFL headwear until the NFL granted an exclusive contract to Reebok in 2001.

Stroke takes pioneer Evans

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Stuart Evans, a pioneer in the collectibles business, died Sunday at his home in Puerto Rico after suffering a stroke.

Playoff National Treasures Football Cards Hot Sellers On EBay

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some of the 1-of-1 autograph cards found in the recently released Playoff National Treasures Football product have generated some lofty prices in online auctions.

Collect.com Auctions ready to go live

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions will debut its inaugural sale tomorrow, running through June 18 at www.collect.com/auctions.

Spring Cha-Ching

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

It’s always shocking when you receive a spring training success from a tough signer. It’s even more surprising when you wrote the letter to the player during last year’s spring training season.

Sportsbuy Offering Free Shipping Through June 30

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

SportsBuy is offering free shipping on SportsBuy purchases from June 15-30 when you sign-up for GameFly's free 15-Day trial. GameFly is the world's leading online video game rental service with over 6,000 titles including all the hot new releases.

De Simone and Vlasak art among highlights in Collect.com sale

Tue, 05 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Collect.com Auctions is gearing up for its debut sale. The kicks off May 29 and ends June 18. If you enjoy artwork some of the legends of the game, you'll enjoy the Daryl Vlasak and Charlie De Simone original art that will be a part of the Collect.com Auctions sale

Baseball card market highlighted on Fox Business

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The start of a new baseball season often triggers media interest in current trends in the baseball card market. This morning, that interest offered a rare, live discussion on national TV about the state of the hobby.

Bidding underway for 139-year-old baseball card

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bernice Gallego found a truly vintage baseball card in her California antique shop last summer while going through a box of items and in the coming weeks the card will find a new home. The auction for the increasingly famous sample of the 1869 Peck & Snyder Cincinnati Red Stockings card started on January 20, Inauguration Day.

Million-Dollar T206 Set on Display at National

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

PSA and PSA/DNA Authentication Services will have on display a multi-million dollar exhibit of T206 Hall of Fame players’ cards and offer a free commemorative poster of the T206 set during the 30th National Sports Collectors Convention in Cleveland.

NFLPA cites �one team� in retired-player settlement

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The NFLPA has reached a $26.2 million settlement with retired players who had sued the union for failing to include retired players in marketing deals with EA Sports, trading card companies and other licensees.

Update: Some Items from Sports Bar Heist Recovered

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On July 29, robbers broke into a Wichita, Kan., sports bar and stole $50,000 worth of memorabilia, including championship rings. Some of the rings have now been receovered.

Donruss to distribute cards at Thanksgiving football games

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

For the third year in a row, Donruss will distribute more than 120,000 free promotional packs of exclusive football cards at NFL Thanksgiving Day games. This year’s giveaways will take place in Dallas and Philadelphia.

UD reaches autograph deal with Bruce Smith

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck reached a deal with the 11-time Pro Bowl legend Bruce Smith to sign autograph cards for its SP Rookie Edition and Ultimate Collection Football products. Smith hasn’t signed for trading card companies in several years.

Retailers feel insert cards need a makeover

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Autograph and memorabilia cards are the key selling points of virtually every new card set that hits the market. But with thousands of these types of inserts having hit the market over the past decade, not all of these cards have the same appeal – or secondary market value – that they once did.

PSA/DNA Offers Auction QuickOpinion for Autographs

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Bidders in any current online autograph auction can now utilize the expert resources of PSA/DNA to help them make informed decisions before placing bids. With just a few keystrokes, the company’s new Auction QuickOpinionSM service lets prospective bidders get expert opinions on the likely authenticity of signatures.

Collector proposes via help from UD Ultimate Collection

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Mike DeRose of Chandler, Ariz., and his longtime girlfriend, Julia Carvell, love to open packs of Upper Deck baseball cards. So he decided to combine their favorite pursuit within a marriage proposal.

Highland Mint creates Josh Hamilton Photomint

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Highland Mint creates 8-by-10 Josh Hamilton photo

Baseball's Hidden Gems

Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Small-market baseball teams – or in the case of Seattle, teams tucked away in geographic corners of the country – don’t get the hobby respect of powerhouses such as the Giants, Dodgers, Yankees and Red Sox, or fan magnets like the Cardinals and Cubs. Still, there have been some all-time greats who not only are fan favorites but statistical titans – and as such, make great collecting bargains.

Collect.com Auctions debut auctions nets nearly $200k in sales

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fueled by some intense bidding for an ultra-rare 1889-1890 National Copper Plate set, Collect.com Auctions' premiere sale netted nearly $200,000 when the final bids were announced June 18.

Grey Flannel Sale Includes Clemens' Word Series Trophy

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Shortly before Alex Rodriguez’s surprise performance-enhancing drug statement, Grey Flannel Auctions secured a consignment for its April 29, 2009 sale that tangibly documents the one-time close friendship between Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee.

New Topps Product: Now that's the ticket

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The new 2009 Ticket to Stardom Baseball features official MLB ticket stubs.

Shareholder group seeks sale of Collectors Universe

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Shamrock Capital Advisors, a private equity firm that lists the family of Disney among its clients, has sent a letter to the board of directors of Collectors Universe asking them to immediately begin the process to sell the company.

Blood Relatives: Fantasy sports and collecting sports cards closer than you think

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

According to industry experts, there are somewhere around six or seven million people who play fantasy baseball each year. Of that number, most are baseball fanatics that look for several ways to satisfy their baseball passion with, many finding a direct connection from fantasy baseball to their card and memorabilia collecting.

Panini signs five NBA prospects to exclusive deals

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panini America, Inc. has signed five of the NBA’s top draft prospects to exclusive trading card agreements, marking its first player endorsement deals since entering into a partnership with the NBA in January, the company announced June 24 at the NBA Store in New York City.

Relocation Projects

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

With the current economic downturn being felt across the U.S., Major League Baseball and subsequently, the trading card and sports memorabilia markets, are being impacted by these hard times.

Free signing guests for National announced

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thorton, Trippi designated as special free Autograph Guests will appear at the National on July 29, 2009 at the I-X Center in Cleveland.

Houston collector wins NFL POD Sweepstakes

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Johnny Titus of Houston wins 2008 NFL Player of the Day National Sweepstakes. The special event includes party at the winner’s home, a shopping spree and a free autograph session at Sportscard Shack in Houston Feb. 15.

Rays tickets available to trade conference attendees

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Attendees of this year’s Hawaii Trade Conference/Mainland Edition have a good reason to arrive early for this year’s event. Major League Baseball is inviting registrants to be their guest for the game between the defending American League Champion Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago White Sox at Tropicana Field on Sunday, April 19. Game time is 1:30 p.m. Transportation between the Innisbrook Resort and Tropicana Field will be provided.

Hunt Auction to run in conjunction with Philly Show

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Not to be lost in the shadow of The Philly Show is Hunt’s live auction, slated for March 6-7 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in King of Prussia, Pa. The 1,164-lot auction is highlighted by numerous private collections.

Warner leads the charge of veterans on the rebound

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2008 season was supposed to feature breakout years by at least two can’t-miss young guns among NFL quarterbacks: Arizona’s Matt Leinart and Tennessee’s Vince Young. Both were entering their third seasons, both arrived at training camp with the starting job in hand and both were ready to join the NFL’s elite QBs.

Topps Back on Topps back for second season

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Back on Topps, the Emmy®-nominated original online series produced by Michael Eisner’s new media studio Vuguru (www.vuguru.com ) and Topps, a leading creator and marketer of sports and related cards, entertainment products, and distinctive confectionery, will kick-off its second season July 20.

Ace Authentic CEO Resigns

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Victor Shaffer has resigned as CEO of Ace Authentic, selling his interest in the company.

Upper Deck unveils new line of Pro Shots figurines

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods are the first two subjects of Pro Shots, a new line of sports figures being offered by Upper Deck. The company says the figures boast “stunning detail and craftsmanship” and utilize 3D-face-scanning technology to create “hyper-realistic” figures which celebrate memorable moments from the two athletes’ careers.

Upper Deck ties Obama victory into store promotion

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck made headlines earlier this year with its Presidential Predictor cards, featuring humorous caricatures of the various presidential candidates. Now the company is hoping to generate more headlines, and boost traffic into hobby shops, with a new Presidential Victor card of Barack Obama.

Bears reunion highlights next Sun-Times show

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Autograph signings by nearly two dozen members of the 1985 Super Bowl champion Chicago Bears are among the highlights of the upcoming Chicago Sun-Times show, March 20-22 at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill.

2009 Press Pass Racing providing bonus cards

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 edition of Press Pass Racing will feature hobby-exclusive Hot Packs that include five Final Standings parallel cards and one Chase Edition autograph card from this year’s 12 Chase for the Sprint Cup contenders.

Judge declares mistrial in memorabilia dealer murder case

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A judge declared a mistrial last week in the case of a North Carolina man accused of killing a sports memorabilia dealer.

Market Forecast: mostly cloudy with more storms expected

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Much like the weather in the Midwest, the forecast for the sports collectibles market is ever-changing. There has seemingly been a huge dark cloud hanging over the industry for more than a year, and a recent visit the Sun-Times show in Chicago presented an even cloudier view of the marketplace than perhaps ever before.

Several of the dealers set up at the show predicted the worst was yet to come, while others took more of a glass-is-half-full approach and predicted relief was right around the corner. While it’s easy to understand both sides of the argument regarding predictions on this issue, everyone who deals in the sports memorabilia business has been affected and many have been forced to make adjustments in order to weather the storm.

20 years later, Ripken comes clean about infamous baseball card

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Bill Ripken did not have a memorable baseball career, but he’ll never be forgotten by anyone who was involved in the baseball card hobby in 1989. That’s when his 1989 Fleer card caused a national stir by showing an obscenity that had been scrawled on the knob of the bat he was holding for his baseball card photo.

NFL veterans are back and better than ever

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Phelps Riding Endorsement Wave

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The King in the Water is about to become the Big King in the endorsement arena. Michael Phelps has been receiving 50 pitches a day for his services.

National looks for success in Windy City

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Redemption offers abound at National

Upper Deck now selling its original card artwork

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck announced it will offer its original card artwork via its online store at www.upperdeckstore.com.

Topps Sues Upper Deck Over 2009 Baseball Card Design

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Topps Co. sued baseball card maker Upper Deck Co., saying its rival’s 2009 cards infringed the design of Topps’ product from the 1970s.Topps, which was taken private in 2007, claims in a lawsuit filed today in Manhattan federal court that Upper Deck’s newest cards are using a design from Topps’ 1971, 1975 and 1977 cards.

Jose Canseco street name change is proposed

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A lot of sports legends get a street named after them in the city in which they played, be it at the high school, college or professional ranks? But how many of them get that honor yanked away? It just might happen to Jose Canseco.

Mega-collector Cypres opens Sports Museum of L.A.

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Cypres pulled back the curtain Nov. 19 on the Sports Museum of Los Angeles, a jaw-dropping compilation of unique and historic pieces of memorabilia.

Woods autographs highlight Goudey Baseball

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The 2009 edition of Goudey Baseball is scheduled to hit hobby shops April 28, and Upper Deck is offering two insert sets that will be of special interest to autograph collectors.

Upper Deck offers the shirts off Tiger�s back

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Upper Deck Authenticated will be giving collectors the chance to own polo shirts worn by Tiger Woods during the first three rounds of his championship march during last year’s U.S. Open at Torrey Pines. A portion of the proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Tiger Woods Foundation.

Athlete Encounters Part III

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Panini treats NFL Draft attendees to limited-edition cards

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Some of the fans attending this weekend’s NFL Draft were treated to limited-edition trading cards featuring seven first-round selections and the logos of their new NFL teams. Panini America created 200 cards each of Matthew Stafford, Mark Sanchez, Michael Crabtree, Knowshon Moreno, Aaron Maybin, Percy Harvin and Chris Wells.

F+W Media Offering Survey To Detect Market Trends

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When it comes to covering the wide world of sports collectibles, no company provides a voice for the hobby like F&W Media. With more than a quarter century of experience as the industry leader, F&W Media is now looking to those most familiar with the hobby to lend a hand to help them provide the most complete hobby-related coverage available.

Williams' items stolen from New Hampshire auction

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Williams’ hunting license and personal notes on local fishing holes were stolen during an auction preview conducted by Knotty Pine Auction Service in Swanzey, N.H., on June 4.

Sports Museum of America closes its doors

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Sports Museum of America billed itself as being unlike any other sports facility. But last week, it met the same fate as thousands of other businesses.
Less than 10 months after its grand opening, the museum closed its doors Friday

EBay posts profit, but projects revenues will decline

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

eBay announced last week it recorded a third-quarter profit, but the company warned investors the fourth quarter would be “challenging.”
eBay earned $492 million in the quarter that ended Sept. 30. In the year-ago period, eBay reported a loss of $936 million stemming from charges to its Skype telecommunications unit. Revenue during the quarter rose 12 percent to $2.12 billion.

NBA offers signed jerseys for hobby shop promotion

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The NBA sent autographed jerseys to 13 randomly selected hobby shops as an incentive to boost basketball card sales in those stores as the NBA season moves into its home stretch. Shops will give the jerseys away throughout the next two months as part of various promotional events in their stores.

UD expands Biography of a Season program

Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Each week, collectors can visit Upper Deck Diamond Dealer stores to receive the latest addition to the 30-card set with purchase of Upper Deck hockey cards.

Sandberg says HOF should pass on Sosa

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Ryne Sandberg said his former teammate Sammy Sosa does not belong in the Hall because of integrity issues associated with the steroids era.