If your cards are too valuable to be worth storing in basic binders, it may be worth it to buy high-protection plastic sleeves for each of the cards. [1] X Research source This will reduce smudging and tear risks. Toploaders are recommended for the most hardcore, high-value collectors. [2] X Research source Depending on the size of your collection, you may need multiple binders and boxes. If this is the case, you should try to turn each binder/box into a broad category.
Sports cards might be categorized by player type, team, year, set and the sport itself. Some collector choose to specialize in specific teams. Collecting all of the cards in a given team will increase your collection’s value. Pokemon cards might be categorized by the particular card type or its rareness. Other “character” cards may be sorted according to the unique categories of that given product. For duplicate cards, you can place them side by side. For less valuable cards in binders, a common trick is to make the cards share the same sleeve. It is helpful to make a note somewhere that the duplicate exists, as it won’t be readily visible from the start.
Though it may seem obvious, you should make a point of marking the box or binder itself. If you’re storing them in your attic, they can get lost amidst a number of other things. There’s a tendency for collectors to scribble the categories. While you obviously don’t need to make the lettering perfect, it is a good idea to ensure the writing is legible for anyone who might see it. Furthermore, giving your lettering some creative flair might add to the aesthetic value of your collection. It’s a good idea to count out the number of cards in each category before marking your sections. That way, you can give each category ample space in your binder.
If you’re ordering within each category itself, you can save yourself organizing in the future by taking account of the cards you still need. If there’s a limited amount needed to complete a collection, leave an open space where that card will eventually go. This also gives you a visual reference as to how complete your collection currently is. If your collection expands beyond the capacity of your given storage, it may be time to reorganize the collection. Luckily, with your cards already in their proper categories, reorganizing will only take a fraction of the original time it took to get things together.
Make sure your basement or attic is free from excess issues like heat or moisture. If this is the case, you should store it somewhere more temperate, such as a bedroom closet. If you have to store your cards in a damp or hot area, you should invest in rigid snap-cases. This will protect your cards from most of the environmental issues. They can run up a cost if you need enough of them, but they’re worth it if your cards are sufficiently valuable. [7] X Research source If your collection carries some significant monetary weight, it’s not unreasonable to lock it up in a safe.
Make sure to include the essential card data, including the name, category, and estimated monetary value. Sports cards will indicate the maker of the card, the year, sport, player name, number, condition and whether or not the card itself is signed. Other card systems (such as “character” cards) should be catalogued according to each of that brand’s specific properties. There are software programs specifically designed for card-collecting. If a spreadsheet is too impersonal for your needs, you should look up a card organizing program. [9] X Research source
