Collecting 101
The guide to collecting and trading cards
Six things every collector should know, from your first pack to your first PSA 10.
01
Pick your lane
- Choose a sport, player, team or game, like Pokémon or One Piece.
- Set a monthly budget before you buy anything.
- Buy cards you love, not just the hype.
02
Know what’s valuable
- Rookie · a player’s first official card, marked RC
- Numbered · serial-stamped, like 23/99. A 1/1 is unique
- Autograph · signed by the player, ideally on the card
- Relic · holds a piece of worn jersey or gear
03
Protect every card
Sleeve→Toploader→Magnetic or slab protector
Sleeve every card the moment you pull it. Store upright, away from sun and humidity.
04
Grade your best
Grading proves a card is genuine and seals its condition in a slab. Graders score four things:
CenteringCornersEdgesSurface
We submit to PSA, SGC, WATA and Beckett. PSA from AED 200 · Beckett from AED 120.
05
Know the real value
- Check sold prices, not asking prices.
- Match year, set, number and grade exactly.
- Not sure? Bring it in and ask our team.
06
Avoid fakes
- Look up a slab’s certificate number online.
- Signed items need a recognised certificate.
- Too cheap to be true usually is.
Every month at LOTG
Trade Night
Bring your binder to Alserkal Avenue. Trade, buy and get values from our team. Trade fair, check condition, and add cash to balance if needed.