A Hobby Outlook Through the Lens of a Dealer, Collector, and Investor.
Reflecting on 2025, it’s clear we’ve just navigated a banner year for the collectibles industry. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just starting to curate your own archives, the macro data confirms what we’ve felt on the ground: the hobby hasn't just grown; it has matured as well.
For many of us, this has always been a "passion-first" pursuit, but today’s market reinforces collectibles as a remarkably durable store of value and a verified asset class. We are no longer operating in a niche corner of the world. With the global collectibles market on a clear trajectory toward $500 billion over the next decade, we are seeing the snowball results of a growing, more sophisticated, and investment-minded collector base.
What stands out most as we look at the numbers is the steady growth of the "blue chips." Demand for important vintage cards, rare autographs and memorabilia —particularly those tied to the generational icons—remains exceptionally strong. We aren't seeing the erratic spikes and drops of years past; instead, we’re seeing the kind of consistent, gradual appreciation that rewards the discerning and thoughtful collector.
Growth and Perspective:
It’s natural to miss the simpler days of the hobby, and easy to be wary of the growing corporate footprint and institutional investors. However, that same growth provides the liquidity and stability that benefits those with a long-term mindset. We’ve been consistently buying collections over the last year, and one of the most rewarding trends we’re seeing is collectors realizing significant returns on material they’ve enjoyed for decades. If you are evaluating pieces or considering selling, we’re always available for a confidential conversation. It’s reassuring to know that while you are enjoying your pieces, they are also growing in value or at least holding their ground.
There is, of course, an unavoidable reality that comes with this: as our collections become more valuable, the entry points for new acquisitions naturally rise. While it can be frustrating to see higher price tags than we remember from years ago, we can’t have it both ways. Rising values along with consistent strong demand are ultimately the best indicators of a healthy market.
Pokemon?!
A recent example of the hobby’s expanding visibility was the historic $16 million sale of a Pokémon Charizard card. The transaction drew significant media coverage, fueled mainly by influencers and celebrities amplifying across social platforms and national TV networks,. This brought unprecedented mainstream attention to trading cards. For longtime hobbyists like ourselves, this kind of spotlight can feel like the hobby is being hijacked and manipulated. But ultimately, increased visibility, even if some if it's surface-level or trend-driven, strengthens the long-term ecosystem. More collectors mean more liquidity, more awareness, and more staying power. And it’s worth noting: the Pokémon market was already on fire well before that headline sale.
The Heart of the Hobby:
Despite the market talk, we must remember that collectibles occupy a unique space. Not everything is an investment. Ultimately, we collect for what the hobby offers us personally: inspiration, nostalgia, and genuine connection. Sometimes the most important piece in your collection is the one that might not have broad market appeal, but carries immense personal significance. When you enter an office, mancave, or conference room, it's that emotion you feel when you set eyes on those special pieces. Never lose that feeling; it’s what makes us collectors in the first place.
Looking Ahead:
As we move into 2026, the early outlook is incredibly encouraging. We see sustained demand, thoughtful buying, and a deep appreciation for historically important material. From our perspective as dealers, our inbounds are constantly active with "grail" requests and want-lists from collectors and investors alike. We’re also noticing a clear trend of veteran collectors consolidating their holdings—moving from quantity to quality.
At the top end of the market, the "gold standards" remain as reliable as ever. Icons like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Jackie Robinson, Michael Jordan, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln continue to set the pace for the industry. We remain bullish on the years ahead and continue to personally reinvest in the rare, iconic names that define this hobby. We are excited for the unique items we’ll have the opportunity to curate and pass along to our clients this year, and we look forward to navigating this landscape alongside you.
Let's Have a Conversation:
We genuinely enjoy talking about the hobby and helping collectors deepen both their knowledge and their collections. As a collectors ourselves, having a trusted network of experienced professionals to consult and exchange insights with is essential. We’re always happy to share what we’ve learned, help guide you in the right direction, and avoid common pitfalls of the market.
And of course, don’t hesitate to reach out with any inquiries—we are always seeking new opportunities to acquire rare pieces and bring them into the fold.
Chris Brigandi (551) 486-3768 chrisbrigandi@bcvintage.com
Chris Caserta (201) 674-7127 chriscaserta@bcvintage.com
Happy Collecting,
Chris Brigandi