The three most important factors in the value of some collectibles are condition, condition, and condition. An otherwise common, modern sports trading card valued at less than $100 in average condition could be worth thousands of dollars in pristine condition. For example, one particular 1971 baseball card that often sells for only about $30 sold in an auction for more than $25,000 in certified, top mint grade.

“Many people who collected cards while growing up in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s may think those cards are now worthless; however, many of the cards from those decades can be worth incredible amounts today in top grade,” said Joe Orlando, President of Professional Sports Authenticator.

“The key to unlocking these monster values is the card receiving the top grade, PSA Gem Mint 10. The gap in value between PSA Gem Mint 10 and cards that at arm’s length look perfect, say, PSA Near Mint-Mint 8, is often astounding,” Orlando stated.

Since 1991, PSA experts have examined and certified more than 20 million trading cards, autographs and other entertainment and sports memorabilia with an estimated cumulative value of more than $1 billion.

Here are some of the modern sports cards PSA cites that are relatively inexpensive in “raw,” uncertified condition but can be worth thousands of dollars in certified top grade.

Card                             High Raw Book Value         PSA 10 Auction Price
1979 O-Pee-Chee
Wayne Gretzky #18         $800                                   $94,162

1993 Upper Deck SP
Derek Jeter #279            $150                                   $33,842

1975 Topps
Robin Young #223          $50                                     $25,790

1973 Topps
Mike Schmidt #615         $150                                    $25, 541

1971 Topps
Steve Garvey #341          $30                                     $25,393

PSA has compiled an eye-opening list of “15 Modern Card Prices That Will Blow Your Mind.” The complete list with illustrations and additional information about the cards is available free online.

For additional information about Professional Sports Authenticator services, call (800) 325-1121, email info@psacard.com, or visit their site.