Best Collectible Trading Cards

Buying guide for Best Collectible Trading Cards

Written by Ave John Hope

Updated April 2023

Here are our top picks for best collectible trading cards.

Magic: The Gathering Core Set 2021 (M21) Collector Booster | 15 Cards | Min. 4 Rares Per Pack

Best of the Best

Each collector booster pack contains 15 cards, with a minimum of four rares per pack. These packs are designed to showcase stunning artwork and unique card variants, such as foil and alternate art cards. While the M21 set appeals to new and experienced players, the collector boosters are geared toward those who are more invested in the game and want to enhance their collection.

Pros

• Contains a minimum of four rares per pack, increasing the chances of acquiring sought-after cards
• Features stunning artwork and unique card variants, like foil and alternate-art cards
• Appeals to both new and experienced players

Cons

• Collector boosters are more expensive than regular booster packs
• Not the best choice for players seeking to build a competitive deck on a budget
• Limited availability due to the premium nature of the product, which can make it harder to find

Pokémon TCG: Sun and Moon Trainer Kit Lycanroc and Alolan Raichu Card Game

Best Bang for the Buck

The Pokémon TCG: Sun & Moon Trainer Kit is an excellent introduction to the world of Pokémon trading card games for beginners. This trainer kit contains two 30-card decks, featuring powerful Pokémon like Lycanroc and Alolan Raichu. Additionally, the kit includes damage counters, special condition markers, a game coin and a deck box to help you keep your cards organized. 

Pros

• Specially designed for beginners, offering an easy introduction to Pokémon TCG
• Contains two 30-card decks featuring powerful Pokémon Lycanroc and Alolan Raichu
• Includes a game mat, damage counters, special condition markers, a game coin, and a deck box

Cons

• Experienced players may find the decks and gameplay too basic
• May not contain enough cards to build a competitive deck for tournaments
• Limited to the Sun & Moon series, which may not appeal to those interested in other Pokémon TCG series

Yugioh Legendary Hero Decks Trading Card Game

Top Pick

The Yugioh Legendary Hero Decks are a fantastic addition to any Yugioh fan's collection, featuring three unique 40-card decks built around some of the most iconic hero archetypes in the game's history. Included are the Phantom Knights, Destiny HERO, and Nordic Decks, along with a selection of extra deck cards to enhance your strategies. 

Pros

• Three unique 40-card decks featuring popular hero archetypes
• Includes extra deck cards for enhanced strategies
• Great value for expanding your collection or experimenting with new strategies

Cons

• Pre-built decks may not be suitable for competitive play without customization
• Some cards may be reprints or available in other sets
• May not appeal to players who prefer to build their decks from scratch

St Louis Cardinals 2019 Topps Factory Sealed Special Edition 17-Card Team Set with Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina Plus

The St. Louis Cardinals 2019 17-Card Team Set is a must-have for any Cardinals fan or baseball card collector. This set features 17 unique cards, including standout players like Adam Wainwright, Yadier Molina and more. The cards come factory sealed to ensure their pristine condition, making them perfect for display or as a gift.

Pros

• Features 17 unique cards, including star players Adam Wainwright and Yadier Molina
• Factory sealed to ensure pristine condition
• Special-edition set with exclusive designs and images

Cons

• May not appeal to collectors who prefer individual packs or cards
• Limited to St. Louis Cardinals players only, which may not suit fans of other teams
• As a single-year release, the set doesn't cover the entire history of the team

Topps 2020 Garbage Pail Kids Series 1:"Late to School Value Box

The Garbage Pail Kids Series Late to School Value Box is a nostalgic and entertaining addition to any trading card collection. This box includes five packs of cards, each containing eight stickers for a total of 40 stickers per box. The "Late to School" theme offers a humorous take on school-related subjects, featuring characters and artwork that are both amusing and irreverent.

Pros

• Nostalgic throwback to the original Garbage Pail Kids series
• Box includes 40 stickers, providing good value for collectors
• Humorous school-themed artwork and characters

Cons

• Humor may not appeal to everyone, particularly younger collectors
• Value box format may not suit those searching for specific cards or rarities
• Many reviewers said they received a lot of duplicate cards