Colgan’s Chips Values

[bcbgcbrcb]

I would like to hear some thoughts as to why this particular set doesn’t seem to bring similar values as just about every other set from the c1910 era, of which there are many. The reason I ask, as an owner of a mid-grade Colgan’s Chips Honus Wagner in a SGC 4.5 holder with no significant defects, I consigned the card to a major auction house last month and it closed last night at $3,000 (including BP) which netted me $2,500. I bought the card during the third quarter of 2021 for $2,950 so ended up as a $450 loss to me and I thought I got a pretty good deal on it. Not the worst thing in the world but I have seen almost nothing but strong prices for nearly every career contemporary card of Wagner that sold at auction lately. This seems to follow a trend for these Colgan’s Chips as I have had similar recent past experiences with Eddie Collins and Tris Speaker. Is it the circular nature of the cards that makes them unpopular with collectors? I know they aren’t the most obscure cards out there nor are they anywhere near as common as T206’s and the like.

[BobC]

Originally Posted by bcbgcbrcb

I would like to hear some thoughts as to why this particular set doesn’t seem to bring similar values as just about every other set from the c1910 era, of which there are many. The reason I ask, as an owner of a mid-grade Colgan’s Chips Honus Wagner in a SGC 4.5 holder with no significant defects, I consigned the card to a major auction house last month and it closed last night at $3,000 (including BP) which netted me $2,500. I bought the card during the third quarter of 2021 for $2,950 so ended up as a $450 loss to me and I thought I got a pretty good deal on it. Not the worst thing in the world but I have seen almost nothing but strong prices for nearly every career contemporary card of Wagner that sold at auction lately. This seems to follow a trend for these Colgan’s Chips as I have had similar recent past experiences with Eddie Collins and Tris Speaker. Is it the circular nature of the cards that makes them unpopular with collectors? I know they aren’t the most obscure cards out there nor are they anywhere near as common as T206’s and the like.

Possibly because it is not a "true" card issue, and not a mainstream collectible. Same goes for things like S74 silks, BF2 Ferguson Bakery felt pennants, etc.

[bcbgcbrcb]

Thank you for the reply, Bob. Aside from the round shape of it, I would think that the advertising on back makes it just as legitimate of a card as a Croft’s Candy or anything else. Those items that you mentioned are made of fabric and obviously wouldn’t qualify as cards, you are correct. I also don’t believe any of the TPG’s grade S74 Silks or Ferguson Bakery pennants but they all grade Colgan’s Chips cards.

[BobC]

Originally Posted by bcbgcbrcb

Thank you for the reply, Bob. Aside from the round shape of it, I would think that the advertising on back makes it just as legitimate of a card as a Croft’s Candy or anything else. Those items that you mentioned are made of fabric and obviously wouldn’t qualify as cards, you are correct. I also don’t believe any of the TPG’s grade S74 Silks or Ferguson Bakery pennants but they all grade Colgan’s Chips cards.

They are also printed on thin paper, not cardboard, like most cards are either. I agree they are a great collectible, and have quite a few myself. They just don't get the same appreciation (and value) since there is less demand for them as they aren't what is typically thought of as cards. Less demand = less value.

As Adam alluded to though, as other, more mainstream card prices rise, collectors eventually look to other more affordable options, like Colgan's Chips cards. Especially HOFers and stars.

I also like other oddball issues like the S74 silks and BF2 felt pennants. And you can get those graded as well. It is PSA only I believe that doesn't grade the S74s and BF2s. I know SGC grades them both. Not sure about Beckett. Had heard CSG grades the silks as well. Haven't heard if they're doing the BF2s yet, but if they're doing the S74 silks, I assume they'll grade the BF2s as well.

[brianp-beme]

I have always appreciated that some folks don't appreciate the round shape. I consider them equal to other, more rectangular cards...they came in a round tin along with the product, are cardboard, and have advertising on the back to boot, like most good 1910 era cards do. My thought is no worries about my eye demanding sharp corners on these critters. However, throughout my collecting over the years, they have always been considered a step below other cards to many collectors.

But just like their squared off relatives, centering can be an issue...beware of imitations!

Brian

[Exhibitman]

I've been buying them over the last year or so. Gotta love the Horner portraits.

[mrreality68]

I like the look of the chips and at some point I am looking to get one. My dream "chip" is the 1912 e270 tin tops joe jackson.
But it is In my opinion a niche market for collectors because of the size and shape vs cards/postcards that have similiar shapes and sizes.
Also the pricing is a bit inconsistent because not many sell and the demand seems to fluctuate

[Exhibitman]

it makes Colgans an opportunity. One thing is for sure: the market gets to everything eventually. They will get their turn on the rollercoaster.

[Casey2296]

For me it’s the round card, great images though.

[Qcards]

This is the only one I have ....

[glynparson]

I think the key guys are honestly
A good buy at current prices. They are a niche item but do occasionally experience a surge in popularity from time to time. One of the few things that it isn’t a good time to sell imho.

[Kingcobb]

That's a awesome Flick Ron. Been trying to complete the set for the last 15 years. The last 20 cards all common players has been a struggle they just aren't out there and when one shows up they can go for $500 or more. The one set close to being complete on the PSA registry is missing 2 cards. I don't know why but it is my favorite set. Daryl

[BuzzD]

I am close to a NYAL team set. Having actual photos in my mind is much more interesting than the drawn subjects of T206, 205 etc.

[rsst206]

Hi Daryl,
Like you I am down to last 25 with Waddell Newark only HOF needed. I have been blown out of the waters for these last ones when they come up for auction. Crazy prices for even the poorest conditions. I have had my list on the buy sell trade section for years. I have only had one fellow member reach out over the years. Here is my Wagner that doesnt fit in my album

[Bridwell]

I like them too, and have a few in my collection.

Phil, I think the problem is the small size. There aren't many tiny cards that go for big bucks. The other problem is trying to flip a card in just 6 months. I see people buying in one auction and then re-selling in another auction a few months later. It's often not enough time to overcome the buyers premium and the tax you paid to acquire the card. Even if the card sells for 10% more than you paid, your net on the back end is a loss.

[Leon]

Originally Posted by bcbgcbrcb

I would like to hear some thoughts as to why this particular set doesn’t seem to bring similar values as just about every other set from the c1910 era, of which there are many. The reason I ask, as an owner of a mid-grade Colgan’s Chips Honus Wagner in a SGC 4.5 holder with no significant defects, I consigned the card to a major auction house last month and it closed last night at $3,000 (including BP) which netted me $2,500. I bought the card during the third quarter of 2021 for $2,950 so ended up as a $450 loss to me and I thought I got a pretty good deal on it. Not the worst thing in the world but I have seen almost nothing but strong prices for nearly every career contemporary card of Wagner that sold at auction lately. This seems to follow a trend for these Colgan’s Chips as I have had similar recent past experiences with Eddie Collins and Tris Speaker. Is it the circular nature of the cards that makes them unpopular with collectors? I know they aren’t the most obscure cards out there nor are they anywhere near as common as T206’s and the like.

I like the Colgans but they just don't really look like a baseball card.
I have made many deals like you did....buy high, sell low...
.