Would you Trade these Cards for a Corvette ?

[samosa4u]

Trade happened last month, I believe.

[DeanH3]

Looks like a Z06. Tough choice because I love the C8 Z06. But I'd have to say no. The car will depreciate but the cards not as likely. Cool story.

[brunswickreeves]

Well, it depends on how you look at it…

From a happiness and fulfillment point of view (consider how we as collectors find great joy from our cards), this woman got the deal of a lifetime. The cards cost her $0. And she’ll probably enjoy her car as much (or more than) we love our card(s). With and from it, she can create lasting memories with her Grandkids and friends, and transport herself right back to her youth when maybe she always wanted for a ‘Vette. Sounds familiar to card collectors.

From the car seller’s point of view, ROI and long-term value wise they got an amazing deal. Off MSRP alone, they immediately netted about $18K-$20K. Factor depreciation in the ‘Vette and appreciation in the Mantle, the car seller could be at a $50K profit in less than a few years.

Today the Corvette is worth about $82K (see below), based on building the pictured model via Chevys website:

https://www.chevrolet.com/shopping/c...&zipCode=04011

The 52 Topps Mantle today would fetch about $85K (if is a PSA 3 which it appears to be) with that amazing centering and clarity, based on prior sales of similar looking 3s (example from HA below). The 52 Topps Jackie today would get about $15K (if is a PSA 3.5 which it appears to be, based on prior sales (example below).Total value today for the 2 at Auction is approx $100K.

I think in this case both parties walked away very very happy. I would not have made that deal of the cards for a car, but others would think that decision just as astonishing. Here’s a great clip from a movie to illustrate:

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BjcNRU...eSBtYW50bGU%3D

[jingram058]

That's an awesome story. I hope she drives that 'Vette like crazy!

[piecesofthegame]

Great question. Everyone assumes the Corvette will depreciate but it depends what she does with it. If she drives it regularly, yes it will depreciate. If she keeps it in a temperature controlled garage, drives it around the block once a month in good weather, and changes the fluids regularly, in 30 years she will have an unbelievable antique with less than 1K miles on the odometer. That will probably be worth 4-6X the MSRP of the car.

Will the Mantle and Robinson appreciate 4-6X in 30 years? My guess is no, but who knows. If you think my theory is crazy, look at AUTO auctions, and see what classic collector cars in virtually new condition sell for. Obviously people with deep pockets make a fortune doing this and waiting 30 years or more to sell.

On the other hand, she looks to be in her 60s, she’s not going to care about the return in 30 years. She might’ve inherited the cards and could care less. In that case,she trades two pieces of cardboard that mean nothing to her for a dream car. She enjoys her golden years in the car of a lifetime. If she’s single, that car may score her some male attention which may lead to a new life…ok I think I went too far!!

[carlsonjok]

I wouldn't, because I am not a car guy. My daily driver is a 2008 Honda Element and my farm vehicle is a 2006 F350. I just want reliable transportation and have zero interest in anything either sporty or luxurious.

But, I am not going to judge anyone who would make the trade. If cars are you thing, have at it. Life is too short and too full of struggle to not find your joy.

[Schlesinj]

I heard a short interview of the car dealer.

Her husband recently passed away. She always wanted a yellow Corvette. The dealer from Indianapolis reached out to a dealer and they bought the cards and she paid cash for the $80k+car. It all happened at the car dealership which must have been neat to see.

I think it is a great story of a woman who will find joy after her husband’s passing from something her husband found joy during his lifetime.

[Balticfox]

Well since I don't like the Topps 1952 Baseball cards and the Mickey Mantle and Jackie Robinson cards don't appeal to me at all, I'd certainly trade those two cards for something, in fact anything that approaches the price they fetch these days. And while new cars depreciate, perhaps an older classic car that appeals to me (there are many) would be the kind of trade bait to tempt me.

[Touch'EmAll]

Gee, I would be more interested in a 1987 Buick Grand National instead. Save some loot.

[bnorth]

Would I trade, yes and no. I would trade cards for a car just not a Corvette as I am not a fan of them.

[Vintagedeputy]

Originally Posted by Touch'EmAll

Gee, I would be more interested in a 1987 Buick Grand National instead. Save some loot.

Oooh, I remember those. Good choice.

[Balticfox]

Originally Posted by Touch'EmAll

Gee, I would be more interested in a 1987 Buick Grand National instead. Save some loot.

+1!

I had one but it was stolen in 1992.

[RayBShotz]

To the OP, nope!

[frankbmd]

When she asked her husband for a yellow Corvette, he responded "Over my dead body."

He kept his word.

[BobbyStrawberry]

I would not.

[Eric72]

Originally Posted by frankbmd

When she asked her husband for a yellow Corvette, he responded "Over my dead body."

He kept his word.

Early candidate for post of the year.

[Eric72]

.