Work crews have torn up the street in front of his shop but as long as there’s an internet connection, Steve Palmer of 
BreakRoom Sports Cards and Autographs in Cape Coral, FL can get through the day. He’s one of a legion of online case and box breakers who are helping keep the modern collecting hobby afloat.
Breakers tear open newer products and the cards are distributed to collectors who “bought in.” It’s a cheaper way to participate in buying new releases, even if your haul is more limited. Pick a team or participate in a random draw and you’ll get whatever comes out of the case or box. Sometimes the payoff is big, other times not so much. Those willing to let others do the physical ripping are often regular customers.
That element of the hobby is starting to get some online media attention, including this piece in the News-Press that included comments from Palmer and some customers.
If you see any game-worn Roquan Smith jerseys or helmets, they might be hot.
The former Georgia Bulldogs linebacker who was picked by the Chicago Bears in the first round of the NFL Draft last month was the victim of a burglary, according to his aunt who posted this on Facebook:
— Shaquwanda Baker (@Shaq_Baker) May 5, 2018
He’s having another post season to remember and certified autographs of LeBron James—especially those from Upper Deck’s days as a manufacturer—continue to sizzle. Three high-end James cards sold recently for nearly $95,000 combined. Only one was a rookie card.
A 2009 Exquisite Dual Logoman 1/1 featuring James and Tracy McGrady brought $36,100, a 2009 Exquisite Triple Logoman with James, Kevin Durant and Kevin Garnett graded PSA 9 soared to $35,806 and a BGS 9.5 2003 Ultimate Collection #127 Rookie Autograph numbered to 250 went for $23,500.
Alt-Country star Jason Isbell is a big Atlanta Braves fan. When he responded to a tweet from writer Jeff Pearlman about Hank Aaron, in came an offer from a fellow baseball loving fan: a couple of mid-grade Aaron cards for tickets to a concert. Check out the exchange thanks to MLB.com.
Related Stories:
Real Breaks Grows With Family Friendly Approach
Loupe Secures $3 Million in Funding
Editor’s Blog: Box Break Skunks Stink
eBay to Limit Break Listings to Pre-Approved Accounts
Recent Hobby Innovations Have Been Fast, Numerous
Notes: Contenders Brady Rookie Auto Auction; Huge Immaculate Pull; ’50s Football Rip; Breaker Living the Dream
These Guys Broke 300 Topps Cases in Search of Golden Mirror Parallels, $250K Bounty
Relationships Make Long Hours Worth it For These 2 Breakers
