There are various types of collectors in the world of sports cards, including player collectors, team collectors, key card collectors, and random collectors. However, for those who enjoy completing things and ticking off boxes, set collecting is a great way to experience the hobby. Set collecting can take on different forms, with some collectors focusing on vintage sets, others on modern sets, and some on a mix of both. In this post, we’ll go through the different types of sets and provide some tips on putting them together.
Types of Sets
While there are other types of sets out there, we’ll focus on the more common ones that you’re likely to come across in your collecting journey. There’s no one correct way to collect sets, and some collectors focus on all of these types.
Base Sets – These sets consist of all the cards in a regular issue of a card release. For instance, the base set for 2022 Topps Update would comprise cards #1-330. Base sets are usually considered complete without error or variation cards.
Base Sets (with or without SP) – Brands that often include short printed cards, such as Topps Heritage, may have base sets that can be complete with or without the short prints.
Parallel Sets – Parallel cards run parallel to the base set but have a uniform variation. For example, the 2022 Topps Update Gold set features all 330 regular issue cards with gold borders and serial numbers up to 2022. Other examples of parallel sets include refractor sets and “colored” sets.
Insert Sets – Inserts are cards that come randomly inserted into packs, along with the regular issue cards. For example, the “Stars of MLB” insert set is one of the many inserts in the 2022 Topps Update release.
Autographed Sets – Autograph sets come in different varieties. Some insert sets come autographed, and collectors may aim to put together a set of all the cards from that autographed insert set. Alternatively, some collectors try to get all the cards in a particular base, insert, or parallel set autographed by the player, either in person or through the mail.
Memorabilia Sets – This is a subcategory of insert sets, as some inserts have a piece of game-used or event-worn memorabilia, such as a bat or jersey. Many collectors choose to focus on this type of set.
Master Sets – These are the most comprehensive sets, containing all the cards in a given release, including the base cards, errors, variations, parallels, and inserts. However, some sets have extremely rare parallels or inserts, such as cards numbered 1 of 1, making it challenging to complete a true master set. In such cases, collectors may opt to complete the base set plus only the more common inserts, parallels, variations, and errors.
Set Collecting Tips
As mentioned earlier, there’s no one right way to collect sets, and collectors should focus on what makes them happy. However, here are some tips to help you get started:
- Research sets before choosing one to collect. Consider factors such as the availability and cost of the cards, and whether you find the set visually appealing.
- Set a budget and stick to it. Decide how much you can and want to spend on collecting each month.
- Collect at your own pace. As the saying goes, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. It can be very tempting to jump a every card you see that will get you closer to finishing your set. Take your time, though. Be selective about what card you buy, and again, stick to your budget.
- For vintage sets, decide what condition you want the set to be in. Better condition cards will be more expensive and will take longer to collect. Don’t be afraid to collect a set in low or mid grade condition, as these cards can be just as exciting to procure and collect, at a fraction of the price.
- Keep a checklist. Whether it be on paper or in digital form, you need to have a list of what you have and what you need to complete your set. There are many excellent resources for tracking your set completion. https://www.tcdb.com/ is one that I use often. It has a very comprehensive set of checklists for almost every set out there.
- Buy large lots of cards to get started. “Starter sets” or lots or cards from a given release are great places to start your collection. Sometimes it
- Trade your extras. When you buy lots or multiple lots, it’s inevitable that you will have duplicates of some cards. Use these to trade for cards that you do not have yet. If you are fortunate enough to have friends that collect, great! Trade with them. Otherwise, there are online forums where you can post your trade and want lists.
- Take your extras and want list to card shows or your local card shop. There are many people out there that are willing to help you find the cards you need.
In conclusion, set collecting is a great way to enjoy the hobby of sports card collecting. With various types of sets and different ways of collecting them, it allows collectors to personalize their collecting experience to their own preferences. Whether you collect vintage or modern sets, base sets or parallel sets, autographed or memorabilia sets, or even aim for a master set, set collecting can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. With the tips provided, you can start your set collecting journey with confidence, knowing what to consider when selecting a set and how to budget and track your progress. Happy collecting!