Collectibles Blog

Mickey Mantle spawned many a youth’s obsession with baseball card collecting.

For hockey card collectors, no card carries the cachet of a Wayne Gretzky rookie card.

That multimillion-dollar memorabilia sale you saw in the headlines? The seller likely walked away with far less than the hammer price suggests.

Behind every record-breaking sale is a series of financial considerations that can dramatically affect net proceeds—seller commissions, shipping costs, auction terms, and more. Whether you’re selling a prized piece of art, an iconic jersey, or a rare collectible, understanding these variables before you consign is critical to making informed decisions and avoiding costly surprises.

For serious collectors, the thrill of acquisition often overshadows the quieter realities of ownership. But beyond the hammer price lies a web of financial considerations that can significantly impact your bottom line—auction fees, taxes, insurance premiums, shipping, and storage costs all add up quickly. Whether you’re acquiring a rare piece of art, vintage sports memorabilia, or a one-of-a-kind collectible, understanding the full financial picture before you bid can help you avoid costly surprises.

Even for seasoned collectors, the auction world can be a complex maze of jargon and terminology, particularly when that terminology varies among auction houses. Still, without a firm understanding of the industry vernacular, bidders and consignors alike could encounter unwelcome surprises, whether in the form of unforeseen fees that push a winning bid 20% higher

In memorabilia, authenticity separates the $100 eBay sale from the $1,000,000 Sotheby’s auction.

In the battle between “ignorance is bliss” and “knowledge is power,” collectors should embrace the latter and benefit from superior decision-making.

Collectors can take some simple steps to analyze their collectible allocation, assess its fit with their overall risk tolerance and goals, and consider what adjustments to their portfolio might be required.

Unlike cash, stocks, or even real estate, collectibles come with a unique set of challenges. Without the right guidance, a valuable collection could be undervalued, mishandled, or even discarded altogether. Ensuring your family knows what they are inheriting—and how to manage it—can mean the difference between preserving a legacy and losing an asset.

For many collectors, the pursuit of rare and meaningful pieces is a lifelong passion—one fueled by discovery, history, and the thrill of ownership. But what happens when that passion becomes a burden for the next generation?