Five Types Of Sports Collectibles

To start your collection, you must first familiarize yourself with the types of sports collectibles. Here are some of them.

1. Team uniforms and sports apparel. This includes the jersey used during the game. If you are simply buying this item from a store, check for signs of use like sweat stains, wear and tear and of course a proof or evidence to support the claim. If the store owner or owner of that particular item fails to produce any type of proof, then it would be best if you let go of it, no matter how tempting it may seem.

Other than uniforms, headbands and arm bands used by a particular player can also be collected, especially if these were used during that particular game. Another item that can be collected is the player's shoes. Most of these shoes are sold at an auction for some charity event. Often times before items are auctioned it is being authenticated first. So if you get items from these events, then you are assured that the items you are getting are indeed authentic and not some imitation.

2. Autographed items. Any item that bears the signature of a player is considered autographed. These items can range from gears and equipments like bats, helmets, balls and pads, to uniforms and handkerchiefs and even t-shirts.

So if you are collecting these items, always look for those items that bear a clear signature, have clean surfaces and if possible, an authentication certificate. If you want something really valuable go for something that has been used in the game like the bat used to hit the final ball or the ball used in the championship game.

3. Sports cards. Most sports fans collect sports cards. This is probably the most common type of sports collectible. These sports cards can be basketball or baseball cards. These cards usually depict the image of a particular player along with some pertinent information like name, age, position and of course the player's game statistics.

These sports cards are often printed on special paper, so if you are going to get one of these, look for a card that has smooth surfaces, sharp edges and good centering. Do not go for cards that are crumpled, bent and have damaged edges.

If you want something that is worth more, then go for cards that are autographed personally by players or sports cards that depict a powerhouse player during his rookie years. Vintage sports cards can also cost a fortune; however, always make sure that the sports card you are about to buy is authentic and in good condition.

4. Ticket stubs and tournament programs. These items can be valuable especially if it was used or bought during an important tournament, once in a lifetime exhibition games or World Series. Do not just settle for ticket stubs sold during a regular series; go for something that happens only once in four years or once in ten years.

5. Bobblehead Dolls. These are dolls that have oversized heads of particular sportsman that bobbles. This collectible can be of high value especially if it is vintage or something manufactured years before.

If you are collecting this, you might want to get the full set rather than the individual dolls. Go for bobblehead dolls that are made of ceramic and are of excellent condition. Do not settle for anything less, especially if it is a collectible.