There are those out there who solely purchase cards for the purpose of selling them and making a profit, and to each their own, but that is not a hobby or a passion; that is a business. I grew up in an era where every card was attainable because of how many they printed, but prices remained stable because the only place you could get them was your local card shop or a card show. Since the advent of the internet, all of those cards are only a click of a button away, making the monetarily much less desirable.
To counteract the effects of the internet on the availability of single cards, card companies began producing cards with limited runs and serial numbered, some as low as being one of a kind (see my blog on 2011 Topps Pro Debut for two examples of 1/1 versions). This exclusivity not only helps the value of the cards, but gives collectors another aspect to chase.
Look at this example, if you were a Jonathan Villar fan you would be able to collect multiple and increasingly rare versions of your favorite player:
As you can see, there are base cards, colored/serial numbered, and even an autographed version. They are all the same player and different versions of the same card.
For me, collecting comes down to the Phillies and first year cards of potentially great players. As a seller of cards, I view the Phillies as my personal untouchable collection, while the rookies/first year players are fun to chase and a long term investment. Everything else I sell or trade.
What makes a card personal to you? Is it getting that autographed card of your favorite player? How about the game used jersey card so you can own something your favorite actually wore? Rookies? Low numbered serialed? What do you love? Post pictures of your favorites if you have them!
