What is a Short Print? | The Sports Card Glossary
Curious about What is a Short Print? The sports card Short Print (SP) is a card produced in limited quantities, making it a rare find and often highly sought after by collectors.
These elusive gems can add significant value to your collection and are a thrilling discovery for any card enthusiast. Ready to uncover the secrets behind Short Prints? Let’s dive in!
What is a Short Print?
The term short print (SP) often comes up as a significant marker of rarity and value. A short print is defined as any card produced in lower quantities compared to others in the same set. For example, if a typical base common card in a set has a print run of 20,000 cards, then any card with a print run of less than 20,000 could be considered a short print.
This encompasses both numbered cards and non-numbered cards that are known to have limited print runs. Here we define print cards with more examples for better understanding.
Examples of Short Prints
Numbered cards: Any card that is serially numbered can be classified as a short print. For example, a card numbered to 500, 100, or even 1 (often referred to as a “1 of 1”) is a short print.
Non-numbered cards: Short prints can create intrigue without explicit numbering. These non-numbered variants may arise from unexpected production adjustments or exclusive releases tied to particular promotional events.
The Purpose of Short Prints
Short prints serve several purposes in the sports card industry:
Increased Collectibility: Limited print runs boost collectibility by creating exclusivity, driving collectors to seek out rare cards for their unique appeal and scarcity.
Value Appreciation: Short prints often gain value over time due to their rarity, becoming highly coveted and commanding higher prices on the secondary market.
Incentive for Collectors: Short print cards motivate collectors to complete their sets, with the challenge of finding these elusive cards adding excitement to the hobby.
How to Tell if a Card is a Short Print
Identifying a short print can be challenging, especially for beginners. There are several methods to help determine whether a card is an SP.
Check Card Numbers
High Numbers: In many sets, short prints are assigned higher numbers compared to base cards. The base set is numbered 1-200, cards numbered 201-250 might be short prints.
Serial Numbers: Short prints often have serial numbers printed on them, indicating their limited production. A card numbered out of 100 or 500 is a clear sign of a short print.
Look for Visual Differences
Alternate Photos: The easiest ways to spot a short print is by comparing the photo to the base card. If the image is different it is like an SP.
Special Foil or Holograms: SPs might feature unique foil treatments, holograms, or other visual enhancements not present on regular cards.
Consult Manufacturer Checklists
Official Checklists: Card manufacturers often release checklists that indicate which cards in a set are short prints. These checklists can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website.
Product Details: Information provided on the product packaging or manufacturer’s website can also give clues about which cards are SPs.
Use Online Databases and Forums
Sports Card Databases: Websites like Beckett, Cardboard Connection, and Trading Card Database list detailed information about card sets, including Super short prints.
Collector Forums: Online forums and social media groups are valuable resources where collectors share their knowledge and experiences. Engaging in these communities can help you identify SPs.
Analyze Market Trends
Secondary Market: Look at the prices and availability of the card on secondary markets like eBay. Short prints typically sell for higher prices and are less frequently listed compared to base cards.
Auction Results: Check completed auction results to see how often the card appears and its selling price, which can indicate its rarity.
Conclusion
Short print sports card is a limited edition release that creates excitement among collectors due to its scarcity and uniqueness. These cards often feature specific players or moments that resonate deeply with fans, making them highly sought after in the hobby.
Understanding what is a short print is can enhance your collecting experience as it encourages strategic purchases and informed investments. These cards can help you make more educated decisions when buying or trading within the market. A collector starting, consider exploring the world of short print sports cards to elevate your collection.
FAQs
Are Pop1 Cards More Valuable Than Other Graded Cards?
Generally, yes. Pop1 cards are often considered more valuable due to their rarity and uniqueness, attracting collectors who prioritize exclusivity.
What is the Difference Between a Short Print and a Super Short Print?
A short print (SP) has a lower print run than base cards, while a super short print (SSP)is even rarer with a much lower production run.
What is a Case Hit?
A case hit is a rare card found once per case of packs, often considered a short print.
How Should i Store my Short-Print Sports Cards?
To preserve their condition and value, store them in protective sleeves or top loaders and keep them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight.
What Does SSP Mean in Cards
In sports cards, SSP stands for Super Short Print. These cards are produced in even more limited quantities than Short Prints (SP) or regular cards, making them exceptionally rare and highly coveted by collectors. SSP cards often feature unique designs, special inserts, or exclusive imagery that sets them apart, adding significant value and excitement to any collection.
