13 Trading Card Industry Statistics To Know
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Hey, card enthusiasts and fellow collectors! If you’ve ever doubted the sheer force and fascination behind those little pieces of cardboard magic, get ready to be blown away. We’re diving deep into the world of trading cards, and trust me, it’s more than just a hobby – it’s a thriving industry that’s been hitting milestones like it’s on a winning streak.
So, buckle up as we unpack the 13 Trading Card Industry Statistics To Know. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newbie looking to dive into this mesmerizing universe, these stats are your backstage pass to understanding just how colossal and downright cool the trading card scene is right now.
General Trading Card Industry Statistics
Dive into the heart of the trading card realm with these overarching stats. From the sheer market size reaching $13.98 billion in 2020 to a remarkable 142% industry growth in the first quarter of 2021, these general statistics provide a panoramic view of the industry’s colossal scale and rapid evolution.
Thriving Market Size in 2020
In 2020, the global sports trading card market hit a whopping $13.98 billion, painting a vivid picture of just how crazy people are about collecting these gems. It’s like a giant nod to the industry, saying, “Yep, we’re here to stay and getting even bigger.”
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Epic Growth Spurt in 2021
Talk about a growth spurt! The trading card industry flexed its muscles with a jaw-dropping 142% surge in the first three months of 2021. It’s like the industry did some serious cardio and pumped up its stats.
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Trading Card Games Making Bank in 2019
Back in 2019, trading card games were raking in a staggering $11 billion globally. That’s not just spare change; it’s a full-blown testament to how these games have become a financial heavyweight in the business world.
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eBay’s Trading Card Sales Boom
eBay didn’t just survive 2020; it thrived with a colossal 142% spike in trading card sales. Pandemic or not, people were still swiping those cards left and right, proving that the industry is made of tough stuff.
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Grading Overdrive in 2020
In 2020, PSA and Beckett Grading Services had their hands full, grading over 5 million cards. It’s like everyone wanted their cards to have an A+ on the trading card report card.
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Pokémon Power Surge
Brace yourself for this: Pokémon trading card game sales on eBay shot up by a mind-blowing 574% in 2020. It’s official; Pikachu and friends aren’t just cute; they’re big players in the trading card game.
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Baseball Cards Hitting It Out of the Park
The first half of 2020 saw the average price of baseball cards on the secondary market soaring by 50%. Looks like the nostalgia for America’s favorite pastime is still scoring home runs in the hearts of collectors.
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Future Fortune
Hold onto your hats because the sports trading card industry is predicted to hit a whopping $98.8 billion by 2027. That’s not a crystal ball prediction; it’s a neon sign saying, “Invest here!”
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eBay’s Million-Dollar Club
eBay alone saw sports card sales crossing the $877 million mark in 2020. That’s not just impressive; it’s like the trading card industry had its own red carpet event on the digital marketplace.
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Honus Wagner’s Priceless Record
In 2016, the legendary 1909 Honus Wagner card changed hands for a cool $3.1 million, solidifying its spot as the most valuable trading card ever sold. That’s not just a card; it’s a small fortune.
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Pandemic Sparks 92% Increase
The tumultuous year of 2020 brought a surprising 92% surge in trading card interest, driven by a mix of confidence, nostalgia, lack of sports, and increased screen time. It’s like the industry found its silver lining in a year full of challenges.
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Baseball Cards: The OG Stars
Originating as far back as the 1860s, baseball cards continue to dominate the trading card scene, representing the lion’s share of sales. It’s like the OGs of trading cards, standing tall amidst the newcomers.
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Logan Paul’s Celebrity Boost
Celebrity power was on full display in 2020 as influencers like Logan Paul fueled an 80% surge in the Pokémon trading card market. It’s like the industry got a celebrity endorsement, and business was booming.
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Conclusion
And there you have it, folks! The trading card industry is not just about cardboard, ink, and nostalgia; it’s a powerhouse of growth, resilience, and pure passion. From jaw-dropping sales figures to the resurgence of classics like baseball cards and the celebrity-fueled Pokémon phenomenon, every stat tells a story of an industry that’s not just standing the test of time but thriving in it.
So, as you shuffle through your card collection or contemplate your next eBay bid, remember: this isn’t just about cards; it’s about stories, memories, and the unspoken language of a hobby that brings people together.
The Trading Card Industry is not just dealing in numbers; it’s dealing in dreams, and as these stats show, those dreams are more valuable than ever in 2023. Happy collecting, everyone! May your packs be lucky, and your collections legendary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s driving the incredible growth in the trading card industry in recent years?
The surge in popularity can be attributed to a mix of factors, including heightened nostalgia, increased screen time during the pandemic, and even celebrity endorsements, as seen with influencers like Logan Paul bringing fresh attention to the scene.
2. Are specific types of trading cards dominating the market, or is it a diverse landscape?
Baseball cards, tracing back to the 1860s, continue to hold a significant share of the market, showcasing their enduring appeal. However, diverse trends, such as the exponential growth in Pokémon card sales on eBay, highlight the industry’s ability to adapt and welcome new stars.
3. How did the trading card industry fare during the challenges of 2020?
Surprisingly well! Despite global disruptions, eBay reported a whopping 142% increase in trading card sales, emphasizing the industry’s resilience and ability to weather storms and flourish in them.
4. With the boom in grading services, what does the immense number of graded cards signify?
Grading over 5 million cards in 2020, services like PSA and Beckett authenticate and evaluate card quality, indicating a heightened emphasis on card condition and rarity as collectors seek certified gems for their collections.
5. What’s the outlook for the future of the sports trading card industry?
The industry is forecasted to reach a staggering $98.8 billion by 2027, pointing towards a robust and promising future. This prediction reflects the continued interest and potential growth, making it an exciting time for both seasoned collectors and newcomers alike.