Collectibles are a way to engage children in a lifelong hobby and an opportunity for anyone of any age to find something they enjoy.
Mark Gravel has been collecting since he was 10 years old. It was Michael Jordan and his love of basketball that hooked him. “I grew up playing basketball. Today I have over 3500 Michael Jordan trading cards. Some of his rookie cards are valued at over a million dollars,” Gravel said.
A hobby for all ages
Gravel explained collecting can be done by anyone at any age. The hobby requires little more than organization and interest.
“I keep my cards in a binder. People have different ways of displaying their collections. Binders are just one way.”
His growing love of collecting and trading sports cards grew into a business. North Georgia Collectibles showcases about 30 dealers monthly at the Gainesville Civic Center. There is no admission fee, and Gravel says it is a fun event for the entire family.
“We give away prizes at the door. There is a free customer raffle as well. I enjoy seeing the kids getting interested. Selling cards is like today’s lemonade stands of the past,” Gravel added.
Ways to get started
Gravel advises the best way to get started is to buy a box of cards. Learning about their value and making trades makes it fun. Trading card games such as Pokemon and other favorites are popular, particularly with youth.
“I would be amiss not to mention my wonderful helper at each event, Arianna Pervel. She is a dynamic young lady and helps me at the front desk. Her dad is a dealer, which makes Arianna quite an expert at the age of 12,” Gravel said.
His shows always draw big crowds of enthusiasts; there is always something to learn.
“Finding a great deal is rewarding,” says Gravel. “It is a way to get young people off of their screens and into an avenue to have conversations with others and make lasting friendships.”
Next show
Gravel usually holds his shows on the third Saturday of the month. This month, the date is October 19 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center, 830 Green Street NE in Gainesville, Georgia.
If you are interested in learning about trading, Sports Card Hub frequents Gravel’s North Georgia Collectibles Shows. It is a great avenue to learn about value, trading, and which cards to watch out for.
