History

History of trading cards and Upper Deck’s place in that story.

Our Mission

Provide our worldwide customers and consumers with sports and entertainment products that reflect our commitment to innovative design, quality craftsmanship, and authenticity.

"Let's build a better baseball card!"

In 1989, a small start-up recognized the demand for trading cards with improved quality and design, driven by a desire to create a better product. When the initial Upper Deck cards hit the market later that year, it was evident that the company had successfully achieved this goal, highlighting the dedication of passionate collectors’ intent on connecting fans with the game and their beloved players. Overnight, Upper Deck earned the title of “The Collector’s Choice.”


With a history spanning over three decades, Upper Deck has earned a reputation to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and authenticity. By personally overseeing every signature and pioneering a groundbreaking 5-step authentication process, Upper Deck revolutionized the world of premium signed collectibles forever. Additionally, through exclusive spokesperson agreements with iconic athletes like Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzky, and Tiger Woods, Upper Deck has solidified its position as the premier destination for the world’s most legendary sports stars.


In addition to sports cards and memorabilia, Upper Deck offers a full line of licensed games, cards, and collectibles featuring well-known characters from Marvel, Warner Bros., Halo, Neopets, EON, Activision Bizzard Entertainment, and Sony. 

How to get started?

 

Initially, collecting can be a bit overwhelming, with a multitude of products and collection methods to consider.  To ease into the hobby, we suggest focusing on your favorite teams and/or players, and then start collecting cards of those players. Collecting transforms your fandom into a rewarding pastime that can be shared with loved ones.


Modern trading cards cater to a wide range of interests and budgets, spanning from $1 to over $100 per pack. The more expensive packs typically offer richer content and a higher ratio of special insert cards including rookie cards, autographed cards, and jersey cards, among others. 

A Quick Overview of Trading Card Values

 

The value of a trading card hinges on many factors, including the player’s popularity, demand from fellow collectors, rarity, brand, and the card’s condition.
 
However, the primary focus for most collectors is their personal attachment to the card, as the owner ultimately decides its value. A card received as a gift from a relative, for instance, may hold immeasurable sentimental value even if it only carries a market price of $5.00. This aspect contributes to the enjoyment of the hobby, as you determine which cards in your collection are most important to you, rather than relying on the assessments of magazines, card dealers, or auction sites.
 
The unpredictable world of sports moves fast and furious, as players are injured, lack performance, or get traded to other teams, therefore, getting involved in trading cards just for investment purposes can be risky, as making a continued and sustained gain on your assets can be difficult and rare. That said, much can be learned about making sound investments through trading cards.