In a sensational display of fandom fervor and collector’s zeal, the trading card hobby reached an astronomical milestone in June 2025, propelling its ardent followers into a celebration of both nostalgia and strategic investment. An eye-popping $305 million was spent on sports and trading cards across major marketplaces and auction houses, shattering previous records with the force of a high-intensity trading blitz. This noteworthy figure has not only left industry players in awe but has set a new gold standard for future endeavors in the realm of trading cards, according to data from Card Ladder.
This impressive new record, surpassing the previous high of $303.22 million from March, seems set on a trajectory with boundless potential. As more data filters in throughout early July, the final tally may ascend further, promising yet more excitement in an already exhilarating saga.
At the core of this astronomical spending spree was eBay, which contributed significantly with over $245 million in card sales. Not to be outdone, Goldin—the titan of high-profile auctions—chipped in with a cool $32 million, while Fanatics Collect added $27 million. Together, these three powerhouses propelled June’s ascent in the trading card stratosphere, revealing a robust market that remains unfazed by the typical ebbs and flows of economic temperance.
Card Ladder logged a staggering 5.2 million individual transactions in June, ranking as the second-highest ever recorded on the platform. This surge in activity is a testament to the relentless enthusiasm and unyielding dedication of collectors, both new and seasoned, as they continue to engage in the dance of barter and banter.
The crown jewel of June’s card cosmos came courtesy of Goldin, which facilitated the sale of a 2009-10 Upper Deck Exquisite Collection Dual NBA Logoman card showcasing the legendary LeBron James and the unforgettable Kobe Bryant. This card fetched an enviable $1.16 million, standing proudly as the solitary seven-figure sale of the month—a testament to the enduring appeal and historic significance of sports icons immortalized in collectible form.
On the broader spectrum, six cards exceeded $500,000 in their transaction value, while 68 of them cleared the $100,000 threshold. Meanwhile, 239 others delighted their new owners by selling for over $50,000. This vivid tableau underscores the growing strength of the high-end market, as collectors increasingly recognize the intrinsic and appreciating value of exceptional cards.
Further amplifying the pulse of this vibrant market, grading activity hit unparalleled heights. GemRate revealed that 12.4 million cards have been graded so far in 2025—a solid 25% jump from last year’s figures. Within this expansive pool, 7.2 million were TCG and non-sports cards, with Pokémon remaining the undisputed leader of the pack. Astonishingly, 97 of the top 100 most graded cards at PSA this year have been Pokémon, cementing the franchise’s formidable legacy within the card grading realm.
While June represents the zenith of the 2025 trajectory thus far, it also caps off a remarkably robust first half of the year for the trading card hobby. This momentum, spreading its wings across sports, trading card games (TCGs), and beyond, suggests that the allure of trading cards continues to be woven deeply into the cultural and economic fabric of collectors worldwide.
With July on the horizon, the collective anticipation among collectors and investors alike is palpable. Will eBay maintain its dominance, or will another platform rise to the occasion? Will Pokémon’s grasp on the grading world strengthen further, or will another contender emerge from the shadows?
The trading card universe, vibrant and ever-unfolding, promises many more surprises, heart-stopping auctions, and the twinkle of new opportunities. As collectors reminisce over their childhood treasures or strategize their next big auction hold, the world of trading cards is more than an industry; it’s a cultural phenomenon—a testament to the human spirit’s love for storytelling, nostalgia, and the thrilling pursuit of dreams encased in wax packs and foil wrappers. The adventure continues, and as with any great journey, the next chapter is eagerly awaited.
