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What is the best pen for getting a sports card autographed?

It is one of the most common questions we get at Powers Sports Memorabilia, and the answer depends on the card, the autograph, and what you ultimately want to do with it.

In this episode, Matt Powers breaks down the pens we actually use during athlete signings, including Sharpie, Posca, DecoColor, Molotow, and fine-tip Staedtler pens.

We discuss why blue Sharpie is usually our first choice, especially when autograph quality and potential PSA autograph grading are important. We also explain when a paint pen might be the better choice if you want an autograph to really pop.

You'll learn how we choose between blue, black, silver, gold, pink, white, green, and other colors, plus why the size of the pen tip becomes especially important when adding multiple inscriptions or working with cards that have very little signing space.

We also cover one of the most important steps collectors sometimes overlook: prepping glossy cards like Panini Prizm and Topps Chrome before getting them signed.

If you're sending cards to an upcoming signing or getting cards autographed in person, this episode will help you choose the right pen for the card and your collecting goals.

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 Why do autograph signings sometimes get delayed or canceled after collectors have already sent in their items? Matt Powers breaks down what really happens behind the scenes, from canceled flights and injuries to career changes, scheduling problems, money disputes, and athletes simply changing their minds. Plus, learn why a postponed signing sometimes reaches the point where returning customers items is the best option. 

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In this episode we're joined by Alex Studio to discuss his fascinating custom sports card business, and the creative process behind his viral content. Hear the incredible story of how he handed out 28 John Pork cards at a Royals game, and watched as fans jokingly credited the card for sparking the team's winning streak.

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In this episode we are joined by soccer card expert, Rabona Cards, to discuss the beginner’s guide of soccer card collecting in 2026. We cover the World Cup’s impact on card values, top players to watch, transfer window opportunities, rookie cards, investing strategies, and the best soccer cards to buy for new collectors entering the hobby.

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In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt and Caleb break down the issue of fake autographs and how to spot them. Should you authenticate everything you buy? How are autographs forged? This guide covers the key things to watch for when purchasing authentic sports memorabilia.

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In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, Matt and Caleb break down one of the biggest questions in the hobby: why does PSA dominate the card grading world—and can anyone actually compete with them?

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Join us as we break down two of the most iconic case hits in the sports card hobby: Kaboom and Downtown. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting into high‑end inserts, this guide uncovers the key differences, market trends, and long‑term potential of these hobby favorites. Learn what sets each case hit apart, how rarity and design impact value, and which one might be the better chase for your collection or investment strategy. This is the ultimate breakdown every sports card collector needs.

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Join us as Sports Card Investor's Tyler Nethercott sheds light on the controversial topic of aftermarket autographs in the sports card industry. Discover the facts, myths, and risks associated with aftermarket autographs and learn how to navigate this complex market with confidence. Don't miss this eye-opening discussion that every sports card collector and investor needs to hear!

1:07 – Aftermarket autographs
5:06 – Discussion about card grading
9:15 – Card grading details
11:23 – What it takes to match PSA
19:30 – Topps card design discussion
24:24 – Starting a sports card collection
28:23 – Autograph story
32:13 – What is Market Movers?
34:04 – Wrapping up

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PSA turnaround times have stretched to 95+ business days—and that delay is creating a unique opportunity in the sports card market.

In this episode, we break down three smart strategies collectors and flippers can use to take advantage of the slowdown. From targeting low population PSA cards to leveraging faster grading options like CGC, and even using higher PSA service levels to beat the market, this episode is all about turning delays into profit.

If you are buying, grading, or selling cards right now, understanding how timing impacts supply, pricing, and competition could give you a major edge.

Instead of waiting months for your cards to come back, learn how to stay active, generate cash flow, and position yourself ahead of the market.

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In this episode of the Powers Sports Memorabilia Show, we sit down with Todd McFarlane, the legendary creator and collector who owns one of the most iconic pieces in sports history — Mark McGwire’s 70th home run baseball.

Todd takes us inside the story of acquiring the ball that captured the attention of the entire sports world, and what it means to own a true piece of history. We also dive into his experience with Barry Bonds’ 73rd home run ball and how those moments helped shape the modern memorabilia market.

Beyond the headlines, Todd explains why game-used baseball items stand apart from other sports collectibles. From the connection to the exact moment on the field to the way baseball preserves history, he breaks down what makes these pieces so unique in the hobby.

For collectors of all levels, Todd shares practical advice on how he would start a collection today, what to focus on, and how to approach the hobby with purpose.

If you are passionate about sports history, collecting, or the stories behind iconic memorabilia, this is an episode you will not want to miss.