The Beginning

Ironically, baseball cards were first introduced as a means to sell tobacco.  This first era of cards produced the 1909 Honus Wagner baseball card which has since been referred to as the most valuable card in the world.

Around 1914, cards were beginning to be sold in packs of candy and a new younger generation of collectors was born.  In the coming years stories began to circulate about how kids put cards such as Mickey Mantle in the spokes of their bikes so that they could hear a clicking sound as they peddled.

Up until 1979 cards were not massively produced and because many were destroyed by kids enjoying their daily activities, the value of these cards have risen even more.  Thus, nearly any sports card in good condition produced before 1980 has at least some value.

Massive Production and Collection

Unfortunately, in large part due to the early success of sports cards through 1979, in 1980 card manufacturers and collectors tried to capitalize on the situation.  By now more than a few people were kicking themselves about all the Mickey Mantle cards they had shredded as kids and were more than determined not to let their kids do the same thing.  Consequently, many families still have huge collections of 1980s sports cards in their attics.  Because of unusually high preservation and massive production, the majority of sports cards produced between 1980 and 1995 are worthless.

Despite this, there are still a few valuable cards during this era.  Virtually all rookie cards of superstars have significant value.  Some key rookies to look for include Michael Jordan, Joe Montana, and Cal Ripken Jr.

The Current Era

After 1995, the sports card market began to recover and many changes were made.  Rookie cards still remain a premier focus; however, they are now just one aspect to collecting.  Serial numbered cards were produced such as only producing 1,000 or fewer of one particular card.  In addition, certified autographed and game worn jersey cards have been inserted into packs which have become extremely popular and valuable. 

Professional grading and authentication has also been gaining popularity for all cards.  Companies such as Beckett, known for their beckett price guide, have been authenticating and grading cards on a scale from 1-10.  Cards that receive an 8, 9, or 10 from Beckett often gain value through the grading process, lower grades tend to diminish value unless the card is a vintage pre-1970.

Currently, any rookie card of a superstar, autograph, jersey, or serial numbered card, if in at least Excellent condition or graded, will have at least some value.  Many cards such as these are selling for hundreds of dollars on the market right now.