Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe

Episode 12: Comped Out

In Episode 12 of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe dives into the world of card pricing and the use of "comps" (price comparisons) at trade shows, but with a twist! Ever feel overwhelmed by the constant chase of market values? This episode takes you behind the scenes of a dealer’s experience with buyers obsessed with comps and how it leads to some serious "comp burnout." Joe shares hilarious—and sometimes frustrating—stories from trade shows, where negotiations got heated, and he reveals the real key to making the hobby enjoyable again. If you're looking to break free from the grind of pricing apps and discover a new approach to your collection, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to learn how to shift your mindset and find the hidden gems that don’t follow the usual price trends. Plus, some throwback stories from the early days of the hobby will make you smile. 

Episode 11: BUYER BEWARE

In this episode, Joe discusses the growing issue of counterfeit and reprint cards in the sports card industry. He shares a recent experience with a 1969 Topps Mickey Mantle and a rare Michael Jordan insert from the late 90s. Joe explains how counterfeit cards are becoming more prevalent, especially with the advanced printing technology that makes it easier to create near-perfect replicas.
To help prevent others from falling victim to fraud, Joe advises listeners on how to identify counterfeits, explaining techniques like the "feel test" (rubbing the card to check its texture) and the "eye test" (visually inspecting the card, and using magnification to detect subtle differences). He highlights that the best way to ensure authenticity is to buy already-graded cards from reputable grading companies like PSA, SGC, or BGS.
Joe stresses that counterfeits are often hard to spot without professional help, and collectors should be cautious, especially when purchasing high-dollar items from untrustworthy sources. And of course, if you need help decifering, Joe and his team are happy to help. 

Episode 10: To Grade or Not to Grade

In this episode, Joe Davis delves into the complex world of sports card grading, discussing the decision-making process behind whether to grade cards for personal collections or resale. He draws from his vast experience with PSA, SGC, and BGS, reflecting on how the grading landscape has shifted since he began in the hobby.
Joe explains that while grading can add significant value and liquidity to a collection, it’s important to be selective about what gets sent in, especially as grading costs have increased. He stresses that over-grading, particularly of modern cards, can lead to financial loss, as the market for these cards often doesn’t support the grading fees. For vintage cards, however, grading remains an essential tool for authentication and resale, even in lower grades. Joe encourages collectors to think critically about grading decisions, weighing the potential resale value against the costs involved.
He offers advice to both collectors and resellers, advising collectors to grade key cards, especially if they plan to eventually sell or pass them on. For resellers, timing and grading company choice are crucial, as turnaround times and resale values vary by company. Joe also highlights the importance of inspecting cards carefully before submitting them for grading, as even small flaws can impact profitability. Ultimately, Joe recommends thoughtful decision-making and suggests working with experts to ensure that grading submissions are worthwhile.
Listeners are encouraged to enjoy their collections, be cautious with grading, and make wise, informed decisions to avoid disappointment or financial loss.

Episode 9: 1980s Baseball Cards

In this episode, Joe Davis dives into the world of 1980s baseball cards, discussing both the overproduced and valuable gems hidden in the decade’s collections. He starts by addressing the common misconception that 1980s cards are worthless, pointing out that while most of them lack significant value, some key cards have appreciated over time.
Joe walks listeners through the most valuable and sought-after cards from each year, starting with the 1980 Ricky Henderson rookie, which he sold for $8,500 in 2000, only to learn that it would now fetch $144,000 in a PSA 10 grade. 
Throughout the episode, Joe shares personal anecdotes about his experiences in the hobby and how the market has evolved. He emphasizes the importance of high-grade Hall of Fame cards, especially from the early 80s, and offers grading services through GotBaseballCards. 
Tune in for a fascinating and informative rundown of what you need to know about the 80s!

Episode 8: BUY BUY BUY

In episode 8 of Sports Cards and a Cup of Joe, Joe Davis reveals powerful strategies for savvy sports card buyers looking to score deals and maximize their investments.
Whether you're navigating eBay auctions or hunting for international treasures, Joe offers expert tips on timing, buying in bulk, and leveraging lesser-known platforms to find hidden gems. From avoiding inflated prices on newly released cards to mastering international purchases, this episode is packed with insights that could transform the way you collect. Tune in for insider secrets that could give you the edge in your next card-buying adventure.

Episode 7: Collecting Your Childhood

In episode 7 of Sports Cards and a Cup of Joe, Joe takes listeners on a nostalgic journey through the world of childhood collecting. As Joe reflects on his own formative years in the 70s and 80s, he shares how his early experiences with collecting baseball cards, memorabilia, and pop culture items like Happy Days, Sesame Street, and Peanuts have shaped his passion for the hobby today.
Drawing from his own collection, Joe encourages collectors to relive their childhood memories by pursuing items they cherished in their younger years. He also talks about how the generational shift in disposable income has led many in his age group to seek out nostalgic treasures, and how the collectibles from these past decades are steadily increasing in value.
Joe discusses the thrill of finding those childhood mementos, whether they’re sports cards or pop culture collectibles, and offers insight into the joy of investing in what brings personal joy rather than just focusing on the market value.
Whether you're a young collector or someone revisiting the hobby after many years, this episode is a reminder that the real value in collecting comes from the memories it creates and the passion it fuels. Joe wraps up by encouraging listeners to cherish their own childhood memories through the items they collect, while reminding everyone that this hobby is about more than just investment—it’s about preserving the many joyful moments of your life.

Episode 6: PSA Grading - Past & Future

In this episode of Sports Cards and a Cup of Joe, host Joe Davis dives deep into the history and future of PSA grading. Joe shares his personal journey with grading, starting from the early days in the 90s, when he initially doubted the need for PSA grading but soon learned its importance through hands-on experience.
He discusses how PSA became an industry leader over time, with its role in the rise of eBay and its importance in the hobby's growth. Joe also reflects on his learning curve, particularly with card conditions like centering and corner quality, and how crucial grading became as card altering practices, such as trimming and recoloring, started to surface in the industry.
The episode touches on the evolution of the grading process, including the emergence of new grading companies and technologies like AI. Joe highlights how AI can assist in improving grading accuracy, especially with centering and card identification. However, he expresses his preference for experienced human graders, who can spot nuances that technology might miss, like print blots or surface issues on specific cards.
This episode concludes with Joe looking to the future, where grading continues to play a vital role in preserving and authenticating sports cards, ensuring liquidity for collectors. He emphasizes how grading can enhance the value and marketability of cards, making them more accessible for future generations.
For more information on PSA grading and consignments, visit GotBaseballCards.com!

Episode 5: Show Business (Part 2)

In this episode of Sports Cards & A Cup of Joe, Joe continues the discussion on show business, focusing on the dealer's side of things. Drawing from decades of experience, he shares insights on how to be more effective at trade shows around the country. This episode, he emphasizes the importance of being well-prepared, staying organized, and presenting your booth in a professional way. while also discussing the value of pricing your items clearly, maintaining a positive attitude, and being ready for anything that might come up during a show. With personal stories and tips on building relationships with buyers, this episode serves as a guide for dealers looking to enhance their presence and success! 

Episode 4: Show Business (Part 1)

It’s Episode 4 and Joe takes listeners on a journey through the world of sports card shows. Reflecting on his first show experience in 1982, Joe shares valuable tips for buyers on how to successfully navigate these events. From preparing a budget and researching prices to the importance of bringing cash and wearing comfortable shoes, Joe covers all the essentials for making the most out of your show experience.
He also emphasizes the fun of connecting with fellow collectors, building relationships, and learning from others in the hobby. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned pro, Joe’s advice will help you enjoy the show, stay focused, and avoid common mistakes.
Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the show business, and don’t miss part two, where Joe dives into the seller's side of the equation!

Episode 3: Closed Windows, Open Doors

In this episode, Joe shares two powerful stories from his sports card journey that illustrate his own take on the well known saying: "When God closes a door, He always opens a window." He recounts the challenging process of purchasing his company's building in 2018 after months of dead-end searches, and a recent consignment experience where a disappointing client cancellation led to an unexpected massive collection opportunity. Through patience, perseverance, and watching God do what He does, Joe demonstrates how setbacks can transform into unexpected blessings in the sports card industry. The episode is a testament to staying hopeful and trusting that better opportunities are always around the corner.