2025

In a twist reminiscent of a plot straight out of a vintage comic book, PSA, better known as the heroic force behind the world of sports card grading, is donning a new cape and entering an arena long dominated by its arch-nemesis, CGC. With polished shields and sharpened pencils, PSA is boldly venturing into the colorful and competitive world of comic book and magazine grading, setting July 14 as its grand debut.

This week, the company ushered in its eagerly awaited battle strategy with a clear proclamation of pricing and timelines for comic enthusiasts and collectors clamoring for clarity. With Modern-era books (those published from 1975 and later) positioned on their grading valor list, PSA offers an enticing deal starting at $25.99 per item, with a promising 20-business-day turnaround. It’s a timeline that might make collectors heave a sigh of relief, like finding the last missing piece of their prized puzzle.

Not stopping at grading alone, PSA comes wielding another powerful service: comic pressing. Starting at a modest $11.99, this add-on service is bound to double the timeline, but promises that comics emerge more pristine and preserved for posterity. One can almost hear the comic leaves letting out a crisp sigh of satisfaction as they undergo their pressing transformation.

Why, you might ask, is this such a big deal? Well, in the comic book cosmos, CGC has sat firmly on the throne for eons (or so it seems). Dominating as the top choice of comic grading, their mark enshrines the top 10 most expensive comics on record. Imagine a world where the monuments are vandalized by newcomers—it’s kind of like that feeling minus the chaos and graffiti. PSA’s heroic entry is indeed a clarion call to shake the foundations of this unshaken universe.

With a shrewd selection of pricing that sometimes echoes those of CGC or dares to undercut them, PSA seems poised to win hearts, and more importantly, loyal customers who cherish every ink stroke in their precious collections. The simplicity and competitive nature of PSA’s structure isn’t just a price tag—it’s a Jane Austen-level invitation to admire.

PSA’s modern quest isn’t exactly its first foray into the bands of the comic realm. Time travel back to San Diego Comic-Con 2024. There, PSA flew in quietly and aligned with Marvel, and fashion maverick Kith, to test the waters with prototype holders for an avant-garde collaboration. A storm of cosmic sneakers was unleashed alongside exclusive comic variants, such as a mischievously exclusive 1-of-1 Venom-Spider-Man sketch, which danced its way to a $30,000 eBay finale.

As PSA pulls up its armory to accept submissions, a slow-motion reel begins. Collectors, both novice and veterans alike, gaze intently at the arrival of a new crusader in this world of inks and panels. PSA carries with it not just the weight of its recognizable name, but a rich infrastructure, extending its oversight from sports to literary treasure hunting.

This bold move signals a new dawn. With every rollout and rate card, PSA aims to etch its name in comic book lore. Inevitably, whispers, debates, and expectations fill the air like birds before a storm.

The comic book market, like a living, breathing labyrinth of narratives and artistry, seldom sees such seismic shifts. And yet, here stands PSA, poised like a modern-day Constantine, with a clear message poorly translated across the comic chasm: we’re not just here to play; we’re here to elevate the game.

As the ink dries on this announcement, anticipation becomes the currency of the collector. Will PSA’s entry invite a wave of innovation and fervor within the market? Collectors root through their beloved paper fortresses, considering their next strategic submission. It’s a tale almost Shakespearean in its potential rise and unfolding drama; a tale with the promise of renewed vigor and reverberations throughout both aisles of the trade and sacred halls of comic aficionados alike. The stage is undoubtedly set for the saga to unfold.

PSA Comic Grading

In a move that’s sending ripples through the comic book and magazine collecting community, Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA) is stepping up to the plate, ready to grade your prized paper treasures. Comic enthusiasts who’ve been cracking the CGC spine to get things graded have to adjust their bookmarks, as PSA has charted a timeline and detailed pricing for their new service launching on July 14. It’s almost like welcoming a surprise twist in a long-running comic series nobody saw coming.

For those collectors whose love for Modern-era comics—those stories spun and inked from 1975 to present day—runs deep, PSA promises to cradle those precious panels in pristine plastic cases for starting at $25.99 each. This coincides with a turnaround timeline as dependable as the regularity of monthly comic releases—they estimate a 20-business-day period for their Modern-age artistic adventures. True to its roots of ensuring only the finest conditioning for collectibles, PSA is also embarking on a mission to flatten more than just the proverbial learning curve. A pressing service is being unfurled at a friendly $11.99 starting fee, meant to smooth out the wrinkles in your paper-bound storied history. However, when combined with the grading service, the press will metaphorically stretch the time as well—the turnaround ballooning to double on entry-level tiers.

Though initially famed for its stringent standards in sports and trading card grading, PSA’s pivot into comics isn’t unprecedented. It’s akin to a superhero picking up a shield after having a long and respectful tenure wielding hammers and amulets. PSA’s venture into the paper world targets the rollercoaster of emotions in the hearts of collectors by directly challenging Certified Guaranty Company (CGC), the reigning overlord in the comic grading throne room. Indeed, every one of those golden grails—those top 10 most expensive comics ever sold—got their shiny numeric accolades courtesy of CGC’s seal of approval. PSA now runs into this fierce competition armed with not only tools but a mind map inspired by competitive pricing.

The PSA pricing tableau is anything but chaotic. Pricing wisdom borrowed from years assessing baseball cards and Pokemon treasures, the strategy is clear-cut: be competitive, perhaps even a touch more enticing than the knights of CGC. By crafting a financial blueprint that plays friendly with the wallets of collectors hungry for validation and sleepy after years of one-dominion grading, PSA readies to become the page-turner of the comic industry saga.

But this isn’t the first whisper of PSA in the stupefying world of illustrated adventures. Back in the not-so distant days of 2024, they softly announced their intent with prototype holders unveiled during the grand festivus of nerdom known as San Diego Comic-Con. The partnership? Marvel, aided by the sartorial stylings of the fashion chandeliers over at Kith. Amidst the parade of “Marvel Super Villains” sneakers, a select few were bestowed with exclusive comic variants, encased by PSA. One particular inky treasure, a 1-of-1 Venom-Spider-Man sketch variant, found itself punched up to an astronomical $30,000 bid on eBay—soundly setting the collectible cash registers singing with its sale.

As PSA takes those initial halting steps into comic fidelity, the lore of graded comics and magazines stands on edge. Will collectors find sanctuary in this new oasis, or will CGC, an entrenched hallmark of the industry, continue to cradle their precious? With PSA’s renowned pedigree offering a new path, the market keenly watches. This isn’t just another battle, it’s a reset, a shift, a fantastic origin tale for PSA that might just lead collectors to conjure new loyalties and alliances.

PSA Comic Grading

In a move that’s sure to send both baseball fans and card collectors into a delighted frenzy, Topps has officially unveiled the cover athlete for its much-awaited 2025 Topps Finest Baseball set. Ladies and gentlemen, give it up for Paul Skenes, the young pitching virtuoso whose fastball is as devastating as his charisma is magnetic. This marks the first time Skenes has appeared solo on the cover of a major trading card release, and what a momentous occasion it is!

For baseball aficionados and card enthusiasts, the Topps Finest set is more than just a collection of cards – it’s a rite of passage, a yearly tradition akin to the start of baseball season itself. To be chosen as the face of this set is not just an honor; it’s a declaration of one’s place among the sport’s elite. Thus, Skenes’ selection not only marks a personal milestone in his burgeoning career but also serves as a testament to his growing influence within the realm of baseball.

Paul Skenes has been making waves across the baseball community with a rise that feels as meteoric as his pitch velocity. Known for his electrifying fastball and a presence on the mound that can best be described as commanding, Skenes has quickly become one of the most exciting young talents in the game. His journey from promising rookie to bona fide star has been nothing short of remarkable, and landing this cover is the cherry on top of his ever-growing resume.

If you’re wondering what makes Skenes such a captivating figure in the world of baseball, look no further than his on-field performances. Those who have borne witness to his exploits know all too well the exhilarating thrill that comes with seeing him pitch. His fastball is not simply fast; it’s a symphony of raw power and refined skill, dancing towards the plate at speeds that boggle the mind and dazzle the senses. It’s the sort of pitch that makes batters question their life choices when they step into the box.

Beyond his impressive athletic abilities, Skenes has also captured the hearts of fans around the globe, thanks in part to his genuine love for the game and the joy he exudes while playing it. It’s this combination of talent and charisma that has made him a beloved figure among the community and a prime candidate for the solo cover spotlight. Baseball fans love a player who not only performs at an elite level but does so with passion and panache, and in Skenes, they’ve found their man.

His previous appearances on group-featured cards and promotional materials have been well-received, but this solo debut solidifies something different – it’s a nod to his growing stature in the league and among the card-collecting faithful. The announcement has been met with excitement, with many viewing it as a significant step in his career trajectory.

To be showcased on the Topps Finest cover is to be recognized not just for your prowess on the field, but also for your impact on the sport’s broader narrative. It’s about being a figure who embodies the spirit of baseball and represents a new generation of stars poised to take the game to new heights. For Skenes, this cover represents all of that and more – it’s a snapshot of a career poised for greatness, a career that promises excitement, achievement, and perhaps a little magic along the way.

As savvy collectors prep their wallets and strategize their purchases for the 2025 Topps Finest release, one can almost hear the collective swoon and nod of approval that accompanies Skenes’ selection. In a world that can often be rife with hype and hyperbole, Skenes is a genuinely bright spot, a thrilling reminder of why people fall in love with baseball – and collect its memorabilia – in the first place.

As the 2025 season draws nearer, one thing is abundantly clear: Paul Skenes is a player worth watching, not just for his prodigious talent or his already iconic presence on a trading card but for his contribution to the invigorating potential of what’s to come in baseball’s storied future. The card may be just a cover, but oh, what a cover it is.

Paul Skenes Topps Finest Cover

In an exciting move sure to thrill baseball aficionados and trading card collectors alike, Paul Skenes, the young pitcher whose name has fast become synonymous with raw talent, will debut on the cover of the eagerly awaited 2025 Topps Finest Baseball set. This marks Skenes’ inaugural solo appearance on the front of a trading card product, a noteworthy moment that underscores not only his escalating prominence within the sport but also his growing allure among fans and collectors.

Skenes, who has made quite a name for himself with a fastball that sizzles through the air like a comet, exudes a prowess on the pitching mound that borders on magnetic. Since stepping onto the baseball scene, he has delivered one electrifying performance after another, pitting batters into a state of wariness and leaving stadiums buzzing long after the last pitch has been thrown. It’s this potent combination of skill and charisma that makes him a fitting poster-child for the Topps cover. For those clutching their scorecards with bated breath, Skenes’ every game is an unmissable event.

The selection of Skenes as the face of the 2025 Topps Finest set is not just a personal accolade for the player but an acknowledgment of the magnetic draw he holds within the baseball universe. Up until now, Skenes has appeared in group-featured cards and promotional setups, playing a part but never the sole spotlight thief. This solo cover debut represents the shifting tide in his career—signaling a shift from promising talent to a central figure in baseball’s emerging narrative.

This decision by Topps reflects a strategic acknowledgment of Skenes’ widespread appeal. Trading cards serve as miniature shrines, memorabilia that collectors cherish and uphold as emblematic of the sport’s heroes and transformative talents. To grace the cover is not merely about popularity; it’s about embodying the spirit and thrill of the game. And, by every indication, Skenes captures this essence with both barrels.

Skenes seems naturally cut out for this kind of spotlight. His performances have an enthralling theatrical flair, a mastery of his craft that casts an expansive net over the audience, drawing fervent applause with each out he commands. Baseball’s complex narrative tapestry finds in Skenes a vibrant thread, weaving through storylines of determined grit, youthful exuberance, and a resolute march towards greatness.

For the hobby community—those who trade, collect, and admire the intricacies of sports cards—Skenes’ cover feature is a point of electrifying anticipation. Many await the breathless unwrapping of booster packs, fingers crossed to unveil Skenes in his latest Topps portrayal. Such a moment extends beyond the simple appreciation of a card; it’s about heralding the individuals who reshape the sport’s horizons.

As Paul Skenes makes his way towards a promising future, his inclusion on the 2025 Topps Finest Baseball cover speaks volumes about both his present and the potential that lies ahead. Not just a nod to his talents, this feature highlights the robust popularity and sportsmanship he brings to the diamond. With every pitch a touchstone moment, Skenes is writing chapters in baseball’s ongoing epic that fans and historians will bookmark and remember.

While it is his prowess and consistency on the field that propel him forward, it’s moments like these—a Topps cover appearance—that hint at how legends are made and remembered. This isn’t merely another accolade to list. It is a stamp of recognition from a community that cherishes its heroes, old and new, and a nod towards Paul Skenes as a rising behemoth in both talent and allure.

As the release date for the 2025 Topps Finest set draws near, expectations reach a fever pitch. Both collectors coveting a particular piece of memorabilia and fans cheering the ascent of a new idol can savor this forthcoming launch as a milestone in more ways than one. Behind the bright lights and celebrations lies a player whose unfolding story promises to be one of baseball’s great odysseys. The Topps cover is just the beginning, mesmerizing baseball fans with a clash of nostalgia and looking forward to the future—a pitch perfect in its promise.

Paul Skenes Topps Finest Cover

If ever there was an occasion for Clayton Kershaw to nonchalantly tip his cap—and maybe sneak a sly grin—it is now. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ legendary lefty has etched his name, his fastball, and perhaps his soul into the annals of baseball history by claiming his 3,000th strikeout. Kershaw, with his textbook precision and bender of a curveball, has long been the muse of baseball poets, artists, and devote artists of the game. Yet, the real thrill is that fans are being gifted with an opportunity to own a piece of this compelling sports tale.

Topps, the enduring name in trading cards, has concocted a delicious collectible to honor Kershaw’s milestone: a one-of-a-kind Dynasty Black trading card festooned with Kershaw’s game-worn MLB Logoman patch from that very day of destiny, celebrating his 3,000th strike. This isn’t just another card. No, dear fans and collectors, this beauty is as exclusive as it gets—a singular, one-off delight straight from the game that will forever sit high upon baseball’s wisterial towers.

But here comes the nostalgic twist that turns this story from remarkable to near mythical. This exclusive card will not be available for purchase or subject to the predatory clutches of auctioneers. Instead, it will be randomly awarded to a fortuned soul who orders the standard Topps Now base card that captures the monochrome snapshot of Kershaw’s glorious strikeout. In essence, Topps is not just selling cards; they’re selling the magic of serendipity.

Forget winning the lottery; for any baseball aficionado, the thrill of possibly clutching this card in your hands is akin to striking gold—or, in baseball terms, hitting a walk-off grand slam in the bottom of the ninth. With the stroke of dumb luck, a collector could boast ownership of a bona fide artifact belonging to a man who holds not just numbers but tales written with his breath, perspiration, and an indelible legacy.

Clayton Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, MVP, and esteemed World Series champion, has turned innings into a lyrical dance of power and poise. His strikeout record doesn’t just come from talent; it’s a blend of relentless perseverance and sheer, untamed passion for baseball. His 3,000th strikeout is not simply a testament to one more accomplished statistic but rather a narrative thread sewn with the golden threads of his career, capturing moments that fans will recount to generations.

The game-worn Logoman patch embedded in the card symbolizes more than just a piece of cloth. To a collector, it represents the visceral heartbeat of Kershaw’s journey—the tactile memory of every fastball hurled with intention, each curveball defying gravity, the dusty footprints dug out one pitch at a time. It becomes a focal point of reflection not just on Kershaw’s victories but on his very being as a staple of America’s beloved pastime.

In baseball, legends are etched under the gaze of stadium lights and history is cradled between the chants of adoration and the crack of the bat. Kershaw’s ascent to the 3,000th strikeout is yet another dazzling halo in the constellation of his career—a feat not just of today but of yesteryears spent honing his craft, perfecting his plays with the tenacity of a master artist refusing to stray from his canvas.

This exclusive card, a tiny flicker amidst the grandeur of baseball’s idolization, stands as proof that the intersection of history and memorabilia is a powerful space—where fans and legends can coexist, if only for the glimmering moment it takes to see a reflection of greatness within a beloved card.

For those who hold baseball in their hearts, the Topps Dynasty card is not merely a chase item but a splendid narrative of grit, spirit, and triumph. Amid the ink and cardboard lies a tale as eternal as Kershaw’s dogged curveball—a reminder that the romance of baseball transcends numbers and games, resting in the poignant encounters between dreams fulfilled and dreams beckoning just in reach.

Clayton Kershaw 3000th Strikeout Patch Auto

It seems as though the baseball gods have high-fived the earthly realm once again as Clayton Kershaw, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ legendary lefty, has waltzed his way into the coveted 3,000 strikeout club. This extraordinary achievement has solidified his position not just in the history books but in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts across the planet. Yet, in a world where baseball fans love to hold a piece of history right in their hands, there’s more good news: the memento from this monumental occasion is making its way to an exclusive, one-of-a-kind Topps Dynasty Black trading card.

Yes, you heard it right. The magicians at Topps have decided to capture this legendary milestone in a style fitting only for the finest baseball royalty. They’re crafting a special collectible card that integrates the game-worn MLB Logoman patch from Kershaw’s historic, sweltering strikeout era. This snazzy snippet of fabric comes from a game that peeled back the pages of history and firmly rooted Kershaw’s name among the elite of pitching.

Now, imagine owning such an iconic relic. The exclusivity of this card cannot be overstated, given it’s as rare as unicorn sightings in downtown Los Angeles. The 1/1 card will be a part of a riveting gamble, as it will be randomly awarded to one extraordinarily lucky aficionado who opts to order the standard Topps Now base card. It’s like winning the lottery, except instead of cashing out for a lump sum, you’ll become the proud owner of a unique piece of baseball’s living past.

This tantalizing offer by Topps turns every purchase into a treasure hunt, each card opening like a present under the Christmas tree. It provides each Kershaw fan a shot—however infinitesimal—at immortality through this irreplaceable piece of memorabilia. Understandably, across the globe, baseball fans might be tussling to snag a card, each vying to hold a new chapter in baseball history. A small fabric rectangle that embodies not just a game but Kershaw’s relentless dedication and eye-popping performances over the years.

Kershaw’s entry among the Titans of the 3,000 K’s league isn’t just a number; it’s a testament to an illustrious career. Underneath the Dodger blue runs a career sculpted out of sheer grit and staggering consistency. For a pitcher whose curveball could possibly defy the laws of physicists, Kershaw’s ascendancy wasn’t merely about natural talent, but also about tenacity and a sprinkle of perfectionism.

With every meticulously pitched ball, Kershaw has demonstrated restraint, boosting not only strikeout numbers but inciting the kind of awe generally reserved for performances in symphony halls. He’s a three-time Cy Young award winner, an MVP, and a World Series champion, but adding the 3,000 strikeouts to his gallantry transcends individual accolades into an almost folklore-like status.

This trading card doesn’t merely mark the occasion; it celebrates an entire ethos. It signifies a nod to perseverance, excellence, and a legacy that staunchly endures in a game constantly thirsting for new legends. For fans, possessing such a card means hanging onto a legacy—not just from any pitcher, but from a magician who transcends the ordinary through every flutter and whoosh of the ball past an opponent’s flailing bat.

So, as the diamond dust settles on this aspect of Kershaw’s career, Topps’ decision to launch this exclusive collectible is a symphony of harmony for collectors and fans alike. It serves as one tiny, yet giant, medium that encapsulates an era of dominance by a player who, without question, stood tall amidst his peers.

While the world prepares for what comes next in Kershaw’s awe-inspiring journey, somewhere in a factory, the printing press is breathing life into cards that carry not just threads of a historic game, but the essence of what it means to be a steadfast legend in the world of baseball. The magic of being a fan lies not just in watching such moments unfold but in owning a tangible slice of history—a privilege Topps is handing one fortunate soul.

Clayton Kershaw 3000th Strikeout Patch Auto

In the backstage of America’s favorite pastime, where stats, records, and historical milestones get etched into the annals of history, a heartwarming saga unfolds that is rather unusual. Enter Robert Abel, a coach with a mission loaded with personal pride and warmth that transcends the typical motives behind memorabilia collection. His quest? To assemble every possible version of a trading card featuring his wife, Alyssa Nakken, whose laurels extend beyond just her pioneering role in Major League Baseball.

In 2022, Alyssa Nakken didn’t just stroll into the stadium as any coach would. She became a groundbreaking force, the first female to crack the almost century-and-a-half-old glass ceiling, becoming an on-field coach in Major League Baseball (MLB). Her significant ascent with the San Francisco Giants heralded renewed hope and carried powerful symbolism. It was history in the making – not just for Nakken, but for women in sports globally.

For Robert Abel, collecting Nakken’s 2022 Topps Now card is not merely about possessing a physical representation of his wife’s incredible achievements. Instead, it is akin to cherishing a personal piece of history, one that intertwines their mutual passion for baseball with a shared family narrative of persistence, excellence, and shattering stereotypes.

Imagine Abel fervently seeking out the trading cards, each one a mosaic piece, contributing towards a grander picture of gender equality in sports. While some might scout trading cards to root their collections in nostalgia or potential monetary value, Abel’s motivation is about heartstrings, personal pride, and paying heartfelt homage to a living legacy. His devotion serves as a testament to the duo’s mutual journey, encapsulating the triumphs and challenges they’ve faced in a profession often synonymous with tradition and male dominance.

Every card acquired is symbolic of this turning point – a precursor highlighting that sporting arenas, much like the cards, are evolving spaces where stories of brave trailblazers are told. They serve as powerful keepsakes – milestones not just of personal or familial achievement but societal progression too.

What’s enrapturing about the whole escapade is how it mirrors the implicit beauty and narrative of trading card collecting. In essence, these cards become vessels of storytelling. Beyond the cardboard and color, they carry tales of aspiration, resilience, and moments of glory. Abel’s endeavor showcases that collections are repositories of not just items but emotion and experience – each card holding a streak of pride, a snippet of history, and an echo of hope.

Despite its strong ties to nostalgia, the hobby of trading card collection is undergoing a renaissance of sorts, driven by more inclusive narratives and an appreciative nod towards emerging heroes. Abel’s heartfelt pursuit is but a piece of this expanding tapestry, advocating that the sport, and indeed its adjunct hobbies, mirror and propel societal shifts.

On a more poetic note, to untangle and perceive wider realms in Abel’s saga is to experience a romantic blend of passion and purpose, art and ambition. Think of Nakken’s cards as unique canvases, painted by her trailblazing footsteps in the dugout, and embraced by her life partner in devotion.

As situations such as these make clear, perhaps it’s time to evolve our appreciation of such endeavors. The physical collection, though stationary, enunciates vibrance – a heartfelt narrative spanning professionalism, milestones, and togetherness. This is poignantly told by Abel’s determined quest not just to honor his wife’s giant leap for women in baseball but the familial camaraderie and love that underscores it all.

Nakken, as a symbol of breaking new ground, and Abel, through his heartfelt commitment, reminds us that collecting is more than a pastime. It’s a representation of intertwined histories and a celebration of personal joys threaded with larger cultural narratives.

As fans cheer through the airwaves in stadiums, those cheers form the backdrop of Nakken and Abel’s entwined journey. Abel’s collection is yet another celebration of the roads paved anew, and proof that beyond the scores and stats are stories worth cherishing, much like the cards that bear witness to them.

Coach Robert Abel In Search of Wifes Cards

In an arena where the statistics-driven pursuits of sports enthusiasts meet the tangible nostalgia of trading cards, a heartwarming quest unfolds that intertwines the worlds of athletic achievement and intimate personal pride. Robert Abel, a dedicated baseball coach, has embarked on an endeavor that diverges markedly from traditional expectations. His mission? To gather trading cards, but not just any trading cards—those featuring his wife, Alyssa Nakken, a trailblazer in Major League Baseball.

Alyssa Nakken broke through baseball’s convention-laden boundaries in 2022 when she made history as MLB’s first female on-field coach. Her position with the San Francisco Giants wasn’t merely a personal triumph; it was monumental in its implications for gender representation in sports. Each moment she spent on the field resonated far beyond the diamond, inspiring countless admirers and aspiring athletes.

While fans and collectors scrambled to get their hands on memorabilia that marked Nakken’s pioneering achievements, Robert Abel had a more personal motivation. His quest isn’t rooted in the typical fervor of collectors seeking rare artifacts or capitalizing on market value. No, Abel’s dedication to amassing every version of Alyssa’s 2022 Topps Now card is infused with the tender resolve of spousal admiration mixed with an understanding of the broader historical context.

The significance of Alyssa Nakken’s achievement can hardly be overstated. Within the male-dominated realm of baseball, her mere presence in the dugout shatters glass ceilings, reverberating through generations past, present, and future. For women observing the sport, Alyssa’s rise serves as both a beacon and a rallying cry, asserting that the diamond is indeed a field with room for all who possess the talent and drive to tread its bases.

As Robert Abel pursues each iteration of Nakken’s cards, he underscores what trading card collecting is truly about beyond its surface engagements. It’s a tribute to the moments of triumph that those cards represent. Instead of being mere holders of sports statistics or images, in Abel’s hands, these cards become vessels of homage—contemporary relics preserving Alyssa Nakken’s groundbreaking narrative for posterity.

This gesture transcends commercial involvement, as its aim is far more noble and intimate. Through this dedicated pursuit, Abel fosters a living scrapbook of Alyssa’s contributions to baseball history, each card a memento of a barrier dismantled, a record set, and a future opened wide for women in baseball.

Beyond the alignment of a loving husband supporting his wife’s global achievements, Abel’s mission highlights something bigger: the deeply entrenched role sports can play in marking societal progress. Alyssa Nakken’s presence in every pack of Topps Now cards represents a step forward, a tangible reminder to new generations of the expansive possibilities within reach.

And so, this journey Robert Abel has undertaken—scouring the marketplaces, negotiating trades, and perhaps even sharing smiles and anecdotes with fellow collectors—is more than a run-of-the-mill compilation. It’s a passionate pilgrimage that uses a beloved pastime to enshrine how sports transcend competition and enter the domain of social movement and change.

Undoubtedly, there will be players who look at this collection and see just another artifact of fandom. But to Abel and everyone who recognizes the weight of Alyssa’s strides, the collection serves as a celebration of what she has accomplished, and what is yet to come for women in sports.

Every card collected adds to the mosaic of her story, rendered in spectacular Technicolor, ensuring that future generations of collectors, historians, and sports enthusiasts see more than a snapshot. They’ll witness a narrative extending into new chapters of possibility and growing human potential.

Through the seemingly straightforward act of collecting these cards, Abel reaffirms that beyond numbers and scores, moments of integrity, love, and ambition also shine brightly from behind each lacquered image. In this world of collectibles, the real treasure lies not in the cards themselves but in the personal legends they represent and the people who immortalize them through their passion.

Coach Robert Abel In Search of Wifes Cards

Step right up and feast your eyes on the latest spectacle in the world of collectibles—a realm where nostalgia clashes with modern fanaticism, and cardboard holds the weight of gold. In June 2025, trading cards experienced an unprecedented crescendo, as enthusiasts, investors, and collectors shelled out a staggering $305 million on iconic pieces from sports legends to fantastical creatures. Move over stock market; trading cards are stealing the spotlight.

According to Card Ladder, the premier source keeping tabs on the pulse of the trading card industry, June’s colossal expenditure of $305.7 million obliterated the previous record (a mere $303.22 million set earlier in the year in March). And just like any good blockbuster, there’s always hope for a surprise ending since late data might propel June’s numbers even higher as the reports trickle in through July.

A lion’s share of the trading frenzy took place on eBay, which alone accounted for over $245 million in sales volume. If eBay was the heavyweight champion, then Goldin and Fanatics Collect played the roles of energetic contenders, raking in $32 million and $27 million, respectively. With 5.2 million individual transactions logged across major platforms, June became the second-most active month in transaction terms ever recorded by Card Ladder. The world of trading cards has transformed into something more akin to high-octane sports—highly competitive and ever dynamic.

Among the igniting sparks of June’s skyrocketing numbers was a card sale to make jaws drop and wallets weep. At Goldin’s prestigious auction house, a rare 2009-10 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual NBA Logoman card featuring none other than LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, sold for an astounding $1.16 million. It was the crown jewel, the singular seven-figure transaction amid the month-long auction odyssey. Alongside this, six cards managed the Herculean feat of fetching over $500,000, while 68 cards cleared the $100,000 mark, and an impressive 239 cards surpassed $50,000. The high stakes of the trading card game aren’t just reserved for poker nights anymore.

Simultaneously, the vibrant, colorful world of TCGs and non-sport cards has been embroiled in a whirlwind of grading drama—a crucial stage in cementing a card’s value. Grading activity in 2025 is reaching altitudes previously unknown, according to GemRate, another leading analytics service. With 12.4 million cards graded thus far—a 25% increase over 2024—it’s evident that everyone wants a piece of the action, ensuring their collections soar from commonplace to museum-worthy.

Unsurprisingly, Pokémon continues to reign supreme in the grading sphere, with 7.2 million out of the total horde being TCG and non-sport cards. Evidently, the love for Pikachu and friends is far from over, with an astonishing 97 of the top 100 most graded cards at PSA this year being Pokémon-themed. Who knew squishy yellow rodents and fiery dragons could hold so much sway over people’s hearts and wallets?

June’s record-breaking numbers aren’t an isolated spike but rather the grand finale of a powerful crescendo. The first half of 2025 was marked by intense momentum coursing through the veins of trading cards, with the market raging across sports, TCGs, and other collectible phenomena. Gone are the days when trading cards were simply pastime distractions or dusty artifacts hiding in attic spaces; they have become central pieces of cultural and financial artistries, providing joy, cultural bonding, and investment opportunities that rival traditional options.

As we continue through 2025, it’s clear that this isn’t just a fleeting trend but a full-fledged cultural movement. The collectors driven by passion, the investors struck by opportunity, and the curious onlookers turned into fans—all play their part in the ongoing saga of trading cards. Who knows what awaits in the coming months? The only certainty is that each card, whether new or old, tells a story, waiting to be traded, cherished, graded, or showcased. In the grand theatre of collectibles, the curtain has only begun to rise.

Trading Card Sales Record Broken

Trading cards have transcended from mere collectible hobbies to become a thriving market powerhouse, a testament cemented candidly by the jaw-dropping sales figures this past June. Drumroll, please, as we present a dizzying $305 million—a new all-time high for trading card sales in just one month. Indeed, June 2025 is the month the trading card aficionados will etch into their every waking dialogue, thanks to a seismic performance that eclipsed all predictions and set new benchmarks. Buckle up; it’s time to dive into the wondrous details of this record-breaking occurrence and what it means for the card-collecting kingdom.

The assertion of trading cards as a formidable commodity comes with the backing of hard figures. The $305.7 million splashed in June trumpets a triumph over the previous reigning record of $303.22 million, a figure achieved not in the sweet bygone of years past but a mere quarter ago, in March. With late data eagerly anticipated to trickle in early July, the sum is poised to scale even steeper fiscal heights.

Among the usual suspects fueling this monetary torrent stands eBay, carrying the lion’s share with a hefty contribution of over $245 million to the card cosmos. Not wanting to miss the golden boat, Goldin bagged $32 million worth of sales, while Fanatics Collect chimed in with a respectable $27 million. Each platform served as a vital conduit, facilitating the transit of dreams, nostalgia, and astute investments across their portals. Helping to weave this intricate web of transactions, the indefatigable Card Ladder platform tracked an eye-watering 5.2 million individual transactions throughout this record-shattering affair, the second highest in its recorded saga.

Yet, the crown jewel of June’s trading card exhibit surfaced from the vaults of Goldin, a treasure that paid homage to basketball royalty and altered the landscape of card markets in one fell swoop. The celebrated 2009-10 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual NBA Logoman card, a masterpiece bearing the luminary images of LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, dramatically exchanged hands for a cool $1.16 million. This iconic piece of cardboard artistry rose as the solitary seven-figure transaction of the mesmerizing month.

High rollers weren’t in short supply with June parading a glamorous array of high-ticket sales, ample proof of the galloping vigor permeating the tiers of high-end markets. Six transactions waltzed past the $500,000 mark, seventy-eight transactions delighted parties on either side of the $100,000 milestone, and two hundred thirty-nine cards more than claimed their worth by exceeding $50,000. These figures paint a vibrant picture of an evolving market where rarity and desirability entangle in a complex dance, each seeking the spotlight.

But let’s not forget the diligent scribes of our trade—the grading services, whose meticulous assessments translate ephemeral worth into tangible certainties. The year 2025 has proved bountiful, with GemRate recording an unprecedented grading deluge marking 12.4 million cards under its discerning standards thus far—a robust 25% uptick compared to the last annum. The ever-charismatic Pokémon retains its throne as the fandom beacon, constituting the majority of the card-laden cargo sent for evaluation. PSA’s ledger confirms the craze with Pokémon marshaling an astounding 97 out of the top 100 most graded cards this year.

In a dramatic flourish, June’s staggering financial ballet crowns a victorious first half of 2025, setting a spirited pace to puff convention and dodge the odds. Trading cards—be they bastions of sports legacy, strategic TCG jousts, or quaint facets of special interests—find themselves buoyed by an exhilarating confluence of accessibility, nostalgia, and competitive one-upmanship. The communal heart of collectors beats with anticipation, their eyes set squarely on the horizons of affluence yet unsung, daring all to wonder just what heights lay undiscovered in these avenues of cardboard dreams.

Trading Card Sales Record Broken