Top Trading Card Grader Predicts 'Another Strong Year' for Collectibles

As we step into 2025, the trading card market is buzzing with excitement, and it's not just the collectors and enthusiasts who are taking notice. The top trading card grader, Beckett Grading Services (BGS), has recently shared its optimism for another strong year in the collectibles market. Let's dive into the trends and factors driving this growth, and explore some of the most sought-after cards to invest in this year.



The trading card market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with a projected annual growth rate of over 7.8% for sports trading cards alone, reaching $23.08 billion USD by 2031 (verifiedmarketresearch.com). This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing popularity of sports cards, the rising demand for vintage cards, and the growing interest in alternative investments.

One of the key trends driving the market is the rise of sports cards. The sports memorabilia market, which includes trading cards, was valued at $33 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $227 billion by 2032 (Market Decipher). This growth is fueled by the enduring appeal of iconic athletes and the emotional connection that trading cards provide to sports history. For instance, the 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card sold for an impressive $12.6 million USD in 2022, breaking the previous record for a sports trading card (verifiedmarketresearch.com).