New Plymouth Business Thrives in Sports Trading Cards Market
A New Plymouth establishment is making waves in the exciting realm of American sports trading cards and memorabilia. Philatelic Distributors, a company that has been trading in stamps and coins since 1968, has recently ventured into sports card trading, discovering a vibrant new market.
Chris Wells, who joined Philatelic Distributors back in 1971 while he was still in school, took over the business ten years later. He noted that the influx of trading card fans has injected fresh energy into their operations.
“This new crowd brings a youthful spirit. Our stamp collecting friends are wonderful, but the younger demographic involved in card trading is dynamic, with disposable income and a lively passion for the hobby,” Chris shared.
The idea to diversify into trading cards came from Chris’s nephew, Daniel Wells. “While we were already established in stamps, Daniel suggested we start exploring card collectibles, opening up a new avenue for our business. I said, ‘Go for it,’ and now we’re here in our impressive shop,” he remarked.
Card Crazy, located in a former jewelry store on Devon Street, features display cabinets filled with card collections and a window showcasing signed sports memorabilia. Daniel emphasized that the shop serves as a marketing tool to attract new collectors and highlight their offerings.
“The shop is designed to look appealing and draw in people. It’s like a very expensive advertisement for us, but we genuinely enjoy having it,” Daniel explained.
Card Crazy proudly holds the role of New Zealand distributor for the Italian company Panini, which manages the availability of trading cards. This partnership adds a sense of exclusivity and rarity, essential elements in this hobby.
“Our products range from $60 to $20,000 for a pack of just ten cards. Collectors appreciate the rarity that comes with these exclusive items,” Daniel noted. Recently, he sold a $20,000 box to multiple buyers, each eager to find a super rare card during a live online event.
Last year, a particularly rare LeBron James card drew major attention. “Anyone could have had it, but the interest skyrocketed. When it was ultimately found, its auction price soared to $9.4 million,” he recalled.
In another exciting moment, a local collector uncovered a unique Stephan Curry card from a $60 box, which could fetch up to $7,000 at auction. Card Crazy is also certified by Fanatics, allowing them to sell officially licensed sports memorabilia.
Daniel pointed out that this new dimension fits perfectly with their trading card business. “We currently have a Scotty Pippen jersey priced at $2,000. Who wouldn’t want an autographed jersey to show off at home?” he laughed.
One customer sharing his enthusiasm had previously invested $500 in a Kobe Bryant jersey, treating it like a treasure rather than clothing. “It’s framed, and I plan to keep it that way since it may only increase in value,” he said.
In recent news, a unique card featuring Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant made headlines, selling for an astounding $22 million, marking it as the most expensive sports card ever sold.
As the world of sports memorabilia continues to flourish, Card Crazy looks forward to being at the forefront of this exciting market.
