Unopened Collectors: Do you collect cases or boxes?

jordangretzkyfan

I know there are some big unopened collectors on this board. I am wondering if you collect boxes or sealed cases? Which do you prefer and why? Is there a greater or smaller market for sealed cases?

jmaciu

I collect boxes. I like the variation in graphics through the years. I do prefer boxes from sealed cases, as you know they have not been tampered with. I have a run of Topps boxes from a sealed case from 1980-1985. I do have a lot of non-sealed case boxes, but have been lucky enough to acquire them from very reliable sources.

If I had got in the game 10 years ago, I may be sitting on sealed cases. The cost factor plus supply level would have been less prohibitive then.

blee1

Both, unfortunately room limits cases. I've got about 20 cases. Nothing super valuable. (2) 80' Topps FB, then it's mass stuff; (3) 88' Topps FB,(1) 87'Topps FB,(1) 88' FB cello,(1)89' FB traded, 86 and 87 stickers...then the rest 90-92 stuff.

Boxes go back to 77' Mexican and 78' FB.

<<Is there a greater or smaller market for sealed cases? >>
Depending on pricing.....

slum22

If I had got in the game 10 years ago, I may be sitting on sealed cases. The cost factor plus supply level would have been less prohibitive then. >>



Cost and space issues keep me from doing cases. I may pull the trigger on a case sometime. For now boxes are more in my price range anyway, and until we get a house with a spare room I am left with only small amounts of closet space for my collection.

elsnorto

Just boxes (wax & cello) and various packs (rack, grocery rack, cello, PSA graded wax, etc.).... one of each.

I started collecting these as, well, a collectible to display.

Looking at largely non-descript cases just doesn't do it for me and I am not purchasing unopened as an investment.

Snorto~

twalker

Neither these days. The cases I want have become too expensive and I'm too afraid to buy boxes anymore as they are usually searched, unless they come from a case and a reputable dealer of course.

Sure wish I bought cases 10 years ago also!

grote15

Cases at this point for anything from the 1970s are just too cost-prohibitive. It wasn't too long ago though that a 3-box 78 rack case could be purchased for 5K, and that was a strong price.

jordangretzkyfan

Thanks to all for the perspective. I agree that the boxes hold much more eye appeal (especially wax boxes) than do the largely non descriptive cases. My logic on rarity is that singles are the most plentiful followed by packs, then boxes, with cases being very rare. However to Tim's point, I think the market for cases is restricted to the very rich as witnessed by the recent prices for 1970-1980 cases (i.e. 1975 cello = $60k, 1979 rack = $7200, 1980 rack = $11k). At these prices, I certainly can't afford to play. I thought about adding some early 1980's cases while they are still within reach, but not sure I 'need' 20 boxes from one year lying around.

Would love to hear any other opinions as well.

Merry Christmas everyone.

Griffins

a single pack from each year post war, a full box from each year 21st century.

jmmiller777

I have very few 70's stuff, no boxes, just packs. I do have lots of boxes and several cases from the 80-90's, nothing special. I started a few years back on Heritage cases and am committed to saving a case a year for the next 5-6 years. I have boxes of all Heritage years put away as well, hobby, retail, blasters, and packs (rack packs, wax packs, and other). I have several boxes that have been graded and sealed but don't really care for them. I have been just buying packs and throw them in a plastic box from time to time; this would be packs I don't normally collect. I also find stuff on sale or clearance at Target and Dicks and put them away. I don't really ever expect any windfall from them, but hope to have a man cave someday wher all this can be displayed. I too love the box graphics of the different products.

DCanfield

Although sealed cases would be great; availability, size and more importantly price make me a box collector. In todays market it's becoming increasingly more difficult to even be a box collector. I just buy what I can afford.

jordangretzkyfan

<< <i>. I started a few years back on Heritage cases and am committed to saving a case a year for the next 5-6 years. I have boxes of all Heritage years put away as well, hobby, retail, blasters, and packs (rack packs, wax packs, and other). I have several boxes that have been graded and sealed but don't really care for them. >>



I have thought about buying the Heritage cards before, but never managed to do so. What is it that drives you to these cards? The throwback look, player selection, inserts, box price? Would love to see a few pics if you have any available.