The collector guide

Know your next find.

A few practical checks can make your next purchase or trade a lot clearer.

Before you buy or trade

Look a little closer.

01

Match the exact card.

Compare the name, card number, set, artwork, and language. Two cards with the same name can be different printings.

02

Check both sides.

Look at the corners, edges, and surfaces. Ask for close-ups of scratches or creases. “Near Mint” can still include slight imperfections.

TCGplayer condition guide
03

Compare the certificate.

For a slab, match the certificate record to the physical card, label, grade, and available photos. A valid number alone isn’t proof of authenticity.

PSA certificate lookup

Two ways to collect

Raw or graded?

What to review for raw and graded trading cards
What to look atRaw cardsGraded cards
The itemAn ungraded card, often protected by a sleeve or holder.A card evaluated and encapsulated by a grading company.
ConditionReview the seller’s description and detailed front/back photos.Check the grade and company, plus the card and holder photos.
IdentityMatch the set, card number, variant, artwork, and language.Match those same details to both the slab label and certificate record.
Questions to askIs there wear, damage, or anything the photos don’t clearly show?Are the label, certificate number, physical card, and holder consistent?

Beyond the binder

There’s more to the collection.

Comics

Start with the story.

Look for a character, writer, or series you enjoy. Check the issue number and cover variant, and ask about spine wear, folds, tears, or missing pages. Photos of the actual comic matter.

Funko

Find a shelf favorite.

Check the character, series, box number, and edition. If you collect in-box, look closely at the corners, window, and any stickers. Ask whether the figure has been opened.

Keep these handy

Go straight to the source.

These links open the organizations’ own websites. Ozzy’s Collectables is an independent collectibles business.

Buying, selling & trading

Good questions. Clear answers.

Where can I buy from Ozzy’s?

Explore the showcase and open an inquiry for one item or a bundle. Send your inquiry directly to Ozzy, or use the email or Instagram options. For items listed on eBay, checkout, shipping, and returns are handled there. Open the eBay shop

Can I sell cards or propose a trade?

Yes—use Buy, Sell & Trade to describe what you have. For a trade, select the items you want from Ozzy’s collection and include what you’re offering. Share clear photos by email or Instagram. An inquiry starts a conversation; an offer or trade is not guaranteed. Prepare an inquiry

What should I include in my photos?

Show the front and back in good light, with close-ups of corners, edges, and any visible wear. For graded cards, include the full slab, grading label, and certification number. For multiple cards, include a clear list.

Are all of your collectibles listed on the website?

The showcase includes the cards and Funkos with available pictures from our latest update. Comics without photos are not included yet. Ask Ozzy to confirm availability and price: this is not a live inventory count.

How do I check a graded card?

Match the certification number to the grading company’s record, then compare the card, label, grade, and any available holder photos. A matching certificate number alone does not prove that the physical item is genuine.

What are the shipping and return terms?

Check the individual eBay listing before you buy. For a question about an eBay order, use eBay messages so your conversation stays with the purchase.

Is there a physical shop?

Ozzy’s Collectables is based in Brooklyn and sells online. There is no walk-in storefront, but you can meet Ozzy at a show. See upcoming shows

How can I hear about card shows or updates?

Visit Upcoming Shows for dates, hours, venues, and directions. Follow Ozzy’s Collectables on Instagram and Facebook for updates along the way.

How can I contact you?

Use the inquiry form, email, or Instagram about a card, your wish list, or a sale or trade. For an existing eBay order, please use eBay messages.

I’m new to collecting. Where should I start?

Pick something you enjoy: a favorite character, a set, or a comic series. Set a comfortable budget and get familiar with condition descriptions before buying. You don’t need an expensive collection to enjoy the hobby.