Have you ever wondered what your old Trump trading cards are worth? In this article, we'll explore the value of Trump trading cards and everything you need to know to determine the worth of your collection.
The History of Trump Trading Cards
Trump trading
cards were first released in 1987 during Donald Trump's rise to fame in the
real estate world. Panini America produced the original set as a marketing tool
to capitalize on Trump's status as a flashy real estate mogul and emerging
celebrity. The cards featured photographs of Trump along with details about his
buildings, projects, and business endeavors.
Determining the Value of Trump Trading Cards
There are
several key factors that determine the value of individual Trump trading cards
or a complete set:
Condition
The condition
of the card is extremely important. Near mint or mint condition cards in
plastic sleeves will be worth significantly more than worn, faded, or damaged
cards. Always carefully examine the corners, edges, surface, and centering of any
rare or valuable cards.
Rarity
Some Trump
trading cards are much rarer than others. Parallel photo variations, autograph
cards, and short-printed numbers all increase rarity and value. Check price
guides to see estimates for uncommon parallel photos or special insert cards.
Complete or Partial Set
A complete
1987 Trump trading card set in near-mint condition could be worth thousands due
to the difficulty in acquiring all 54 cards. However, loose common cards or an
incomplete grouping will have substantially less value. Most valuable is
obtaining a complete master set including promotional and rare parallel
inserts.
Recent Sales and Market Conditions
Check online
auction sites and recently sold listings on platforms like eBay to gauge the
current market value for certain Trump trading cards. Values fluctuate based on
supply and demand. RarerFindings has recorded significant spikes in recent
Trump card sales reflecting today's collectibles boom.
Your Trump Trading Card Value
With the
factors above in mind, here are the basic steps to determine how much your old
Trump trading cards could be worth today:
Carefully examine each card's condition, noting defects that could lower grades and value. Plastic sleeves preserve condition over time.
Look up your
cards on price guides or check recent sales of the same cards online to get a
baseline market value for each in your determined condition grades.
Consider your
cards' rarity factors like parallels, promotions, autographed editions that
could significantly increase worth. Short-printedinsert cards are often the
most valuable.
If
valuablesinganindividual card, it's best tohave it officially gradedin a
tamper-proofholder by a professional service for authenticity certification
before attempting to sell. This confirms condition which directly affects
price.
A complete set
in top condition will command the highest overall price tag but require finding
every included card. Partial sets are worth less than individual valuable
components.
With care and research, you can discover the potential Trump trading card value hidden in your collection and make informed choices on whether holding, upgrading, or selling now makes most financial sense. Overall condition, rarity, and completion level primarily determine dollar amounts for cashing in on cards featuring one of the most famous moguls and presidents to ever grace cardboard.
In conclusion,
Trump trading cards from the original 1987 Panini America release have grown
significantly in collectible worth and intrigue through the years - mirroring
Trump's own rise to global prominence. By following grading standards, price
guides, recent comps, and focusing on condition, rarity, and set completion -
you can evaluate what your own sleepers in the collection may now bring on the
open market. Understanding these key factors is necessary to maximize any
undiscovered Trump trading card value secured away in a binder or box for
decades. So dig in and discover how much some of your old cards could be
cashing out for today.
FAQs
Q: What is the
rarest Trump trading card?
A: The clear
frontrunner for rarest card is the ultra-short printed Parallel #49
"Trump's Empire" photo variation of the standard issue card #49. Very
few are known to exist in high grades.
Q: How do I
get Trump trading cards professionally graded?
A: The top two
grading services for cards are PSA and BGS. You'll need to purchase grading
submission services, supplies and follow their guidelines to get an official
certified grade from the experts. This is recommended for high-value individual
cards.
Q: What is the
most a complete Trump trading card set has sold for?
A: The record
price paid is around $25,000 in 2018 for a PSA-graded 9/10 1987 set in
near-mint condition, including all variations and inserts sealed in individual
hard plastic holders.
Q: Do any
other Trump collectibles hold value?
A: While
trading cards are highest, other collectibles signed photos, posters or
memorabilia can also appreciate given rarity, historical significance and
certified authentication. But cards remain the elite tier of Trump memorabilia
investment.
Trust this
breakdown provides you a thorough knowledge on valuing Trump trading cards, an
intriguing microcosm reflecting the head-turning trajectory of its famous
subject over decades. Let me know if any other questions arise!