Nonsense Newsletter No. 133: What's Hot and What's Not, Time for a Timeout, Card Art and More!
In this week’s extra special edition of the Nonsense Newsletter, John Dudley looks back on the Hot & Cold cards for the month of May. Meanwhile, I discuss the need for a timeout in the hobby. And, because I told you this was an extra special issue, we have guest writer, Sean Ulman delve into drawing your own cards! So, as you can already see, this is perhaps the greatest of all 133 editions of the Nonsense Newsletter. Meaning, if you don’t kick back and really love this edition, well, you may need some help from a licensed professional.
By John Dudley
Growing up I learned to love the mailbox due to the arrival of Nintendo Power, SI for Kids, and most importantly, Beckett. A new Beckett meant hours of poring over articles and prices. The first thing I always turned to without fail was the hot list. Even as a kid I’ve loved lists and figuring out how many of the hobby’s hottest cards I had was always exciting.
So, all that’s to say, yes, this is a rip-off of the old Beckett hot/cold lists, really an homage but lots of different ways to say tomato and all that. This list will highlight some of the hottest cards in the market, but it’s not all about price increases. It is also about the buzz being generated. For each player, I’ve chosen one card to highlight. Players also only get one entry. A hot list with 10 Luka Doncic cards might be more accurate, but probably not fun to read.
By Sean Ulman
This postseason I've been enjoying drawing my own cards.
1/1. Signed Artist Proof. Hand-drawn. Sounds lucrative right?
Make no mistake, all the value is in the process. Not the product. It makes me happy. And I bet all hobbyists would enjoy it.
Many will balk at the thought, claim they are no artist. But all collectors are indeed art connoiseurs. They've analyzed a gazillion card galleries in various Museums d'Cardboard.
It's fun to put your taste to the test. Fun to do with your kids. Try something new. Improve.
Classic dimension - 3.5 x 2.5 inches. Playing card, driver's liscene, credit card. Same width as a phone. Just tracing and cutting out a stack of blank cards accesses a relaxation akin to knitting.
Front and back covers of Childrens Books work great. Have a card, or photo, handy to draw from. Or just go for it.
By John McTaggart
I can count on one hand how often this has happened in my lifetime in the hobby, but I’m adding another finger to that number now.
I’m taking a hiatus.
A complete break from the business I love, well, mainly because it’s not so much fun anymore.
If you read my column a couple weeks ago about my friend, Tom, then you probably have a decent understanding of what has inspired me to take this step.
Sometimes, when we’re all wrapped up in all the noise of the hobby, we lose sight of what it’s all about — fun.
The hobby isn't much fun for me anymore.
I literally spend time everyday responding to borderline insulting Ebay questions and offers.
I’ve had to refund countless buyers over the years for cards that “I never got,” or “didn’t arrive,” despite, in some cases, the tracking information stating otherwise.
Quick Hits
Grading News- Premiums for graded cards are going down, but the graders are still producing record grading volume. Volume was up for May according to the superb Gem Rate with the exception of BGS. Even CGC is showing signs of life for the first time since they raised prices in the sports card market. They could actually pass Beckett for sports card volume next month which I assumed would never happen again as it looked like the sports market had fully rejected CGC. I still think the drop in premiums will be a major issue and sap grading volume, but it is taking longer than I would have thought.
Vintage- It’s an article that is a little offbeat, but it’s cool nonetheless, and honestly, is a very unique way to approach collecting. This piece takes a look at all the NBA Finals MVPs rookie cards. Like I said, offbeat, but actually kinda cool. Check it out here.
Hobby News- Rally is offering collectors a stake in ten game-used LeBron James jerseys today. Rally is selling 50,000 shares of the jerseys with the price per share starting at just $10. It should be noted that eight of the jerseys were only worn for one game. It’s an interesting idea and one I’ll be watching closely. More info here.
The Sports Card Nonsense newsletters reflect the opinions of only the authors and contributors. They are for informational purposes only and are not a recommendation for purchases or of an investment strategy or to buy or sell any assets.