The Most Comprehensive Card Parameter Data on the History of Sports Cards
The size, thickness, issuing company, series and corresponding card sleeve size of sports cards are topics that collectors are very concerned about. Below is our list of common sports trading card sizes, thickness, issuing companies and series, issuing years and recommended card sleeve sizes.
1. Standard Size
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Common in:
Magic: The Gathering
Pokémon TCG
Flesh and Blood
Star Wars: Destiny
Description: This is the most common TCG card size, also known as "poker size." It is used by most TCG games and matches the size of standard playing cards.
2. Japanese Size
Size: 59 x 86 mm ( Around 2.32 x 3.38 inches)
Common in:
Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG
Weiβ Schwarz
Description: Known as "Japanese size" or "mini size," this card size is slightly smaller than the standard size and is primarily used in Japanese-developed card games.
3. Large Size / Tarot Size
Size: 70 x 120 mm (2.75 x 4.75 inches)
Common in:
Tarot Cards
Some specially designed board game cards
Description: This size is used for tarot cards and some specialty board game cards, providing a larger display area.
4. Square Size
Size: 80 x 80 mm Or 89 x 89 mm
Common in:
Specially designed board games
Description: Square cards are used in non-traditional board game designs and are not standard in mainstream TCG.
5. Mini Square Size
Size: 44 x 44 mm (Around 1.73 x 1.73 inches)
Common in:
Small board games
Description: Mini square cards are used in compact board game designs and are not commonly found in TCG.
6. Mini European Size
Size: 45 x 68 mm ( Around 1.77 x 2.68 inches)
Common in:
Small European board games
Description: This size is common in some European board games and is suitable for games requiring numerous small cards.
7. Oversize Cards
Size: 76 x 102 mm (3 x 4 inches) or bigger
Common in:
Large display cards from Pokémon the Movie
Description: These cards are often used for special occasions or display purposes, such as oversized promotional cards from Pokémon. They are significantly larger than standard cards.
Summary
Standard Size (63.5 x 88 mm): The most widely used TCG card size globally, suitable for most popular TCGs.
Small Size (59 x 86 mm): Primarily used in Japanese TCGs like Yu-Gi-Oh!
Large Size (70 x 120 mm): Typically used for tarot cards or large specialty cards.
Square and Mini Square Cards: Used in specific board game designs, not mainstream TCG standards.
Mini European Size and Oversize Cards: Mainly used for niche board games and special display cards.
Board Game
Recommendations for choosing the corresponding card sleeve sizes for the 30 most common board game card sizes
30 board game card sizes and the corresponding board game names. These sizes are widely used in board games, and each size has its own applicable game type.
Common board game card sizes, here is the recommended card protective sleeve (commonly called card holder or card sleeve) size for each size of card. Make sure to choose the right card sleeve size to effectively protect the card and extend its service life.
1. 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 64 x 89 mm 或 65 x 90 mm Applicable Games: Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon TCG, Flesh and Blood, Terraforming Mars
2. 59 x 86 mm (Japanese Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 60 x 87 mm or 61 x 88 mm
Applicable Games: Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG, Weiβ Schwarz
3. 70 x 120 mm (Tarot Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 71 x 121 mm or 72 x 122 mm
Applicable Games: Dixit, Mysterium
4. 44 x 68 mm (Mini Euro Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 45 x 69 mm or 46 x 70 mm
Applicable Games: The Settlers of Catan, Carcassonne, Ticket to Ride
5. 41 x 63 mm (Mini American Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 42 x 64 mm or 43 x 65 mm
Applicable Games: Mansions of Madness, Star Wars: X-Wing Miniatures Game, Descent
6. 57 x 89 mm (Bridge Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 58 x 90 mm or 59 x 91 mm
Applicable Games: The Settlers of Catan: Card Game, Scythe
7. 65 x 100 mm (Large Size / Large Euro Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 66 x 101 mm or 67 x 102 mm
Applicable Games: Seven Wonders
8. 80 x 120 mm ( Large Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 81 x 121 mm or 82 x 122 mm
Applicable Games: Eldritch Horror, Mysterium
9. 56 x 87 mm (Medium Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 57 x 88 mm or 58 x 89 mm
Applicable Games: Agricola
10. 50 x 75 mm (Square Small Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 51 x 76 mm or 52 x 77 mm
Applicable Games: The Crew: The Quest for Planet Nine
11. 58 x 88 mm (Slim Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 59 x 89 mm or 60 x 90 mm
Applicable Games: Gloomhaven
12. 70 x 110 mm ( Large Card Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 71 x 111 mm or 72 x 112 mm
Applicable Games: Arkham Horror: The Card Game
13. 89 x 127 mm ( Oversize)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 90 x 128 mm or 91 x 129 mm
Applicable Games: Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game
14. 55 x 85 mm (Mini Bridge Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 56 x 86 mm or 57 x 87 mm
Applicable Games: Love Letter
15. 64 x 89 mm ( Large Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 65 x 90 mm or 66 x 91 mm
Applicable Games: Coup
16. 44 x 63 mm (Mini Small Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 45 x 64 mm or 46 x 65 mm
Applicable Games: Race for the Galaxy
17. 69 x 69 mm (Square Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 70 x 70 mm or 71 x 71 mm
Applicable Games: T.I.M.E Stories
18. 70 x 70 mm (Medium Square Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 71 x 71 mm or 72 x 72 mm
Applicable Games: Kingdom Death: Monster
19. 63 x 88 mm (Near Standard Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 64 x 89 mm or 65 x 90 mm
Applicable Games: Pandemic
20. 56 x 84 mm (Micro Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 57 x 85 mm or 58 x 86 mm
Applicable Games: The Mind
21. 74 x 120 mm (Tarot Card Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 75 x 121 mm or 76 x 122 mm
Applicable Games: Mystic Vale
22. 65 x 100 mm (Medium Card Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 66 x 101 mm or 67 x 102 mm
Applicable Games: Everdell
23. 79 x 120 mm ( Large Card Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 80 x 121 mm or 81 x 122 mm
Applicable Games: Lord of the Rings: Journeys in Middle-earth
24. 70 x 90 mm (Special Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 71 x 91 mm or 72 x 92 mm
Applicable Games: KeyForge
25. 60 x 110 mm (Medium Long Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 61 x 111 mm or 62 x 112 mm
Applicable Games: Twilight Imperium
26. 72 x 112 mm ( Large Card Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 73 x 113 mm or 74 x 114 mm
Applicable Games: Star Realms
27. 54 x 85 mm (Small Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 55 x 86 mm or 56 x 87 mm
Applicable Games: Hanabi
28. 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 64 x 89 mm or 65 x 90 mm
Applicable Games: Ticket to Ride: Europe
29. 77 x 110 mm (Long Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 78 x 111 mm or 79 x 112 mm
Applicable Games: Alhambra
30. 100 x 150 mm (Extra Large Size)
Recommended Sleeve Size: 101 x 151 mm or 102 x 152 mm
Applicable Games: Obsession
Summary
Choosing the right card sleeve size is crucial for protecting cards from wear and extending their lifespan. It is recommended to select sleeves that are 1-2 mm larger than the card dimensions to ensure a proper fit and adequate protection.
The world's top 50 most popular board game card sizes
As a veteran board game player, it is very important for enthusiasts and collectors to know the world's popular board games and their card sizes. Here are the world's top 50 most popular board games and their common card sizes. These sizes are helpful for buying suitable card cases and accessories for these games.
1. 《Magic: The Gathering》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
2. 《Pokémon Trading Card Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
3. 《Yu-Gi-Oh! TCG》
Size: 59 x 86 mm (Japanese Size)
4. 《Hearthstone: Physical Cards》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
5. 《Flesh and Blood》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
6. 《Dixit》
Size: 80 x 120 mm (Large Size)
7. 《Dominion》
Size: 59 x 92 mm (Mini Euro Size)
8. 《Catan》
Size: 44 x 68 mm (Mini Euro Size Mini Euro Size)
9. 《Ticket to Ride》
Size: 44 x 68 mm (Mini Euro Size)
10. 《Carcassonne》
Size: 44 x 68 mm (Mini Euro Size)
11. 《Seven Wonders》
Size: 65 x 100 mm (Large Size)
12. 《Terraforming Mars》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
13. 《Gloomhaven》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
14. 《The Settlers of Catan: Card Game》
Size: 56 x 87 mm (Bridge Size)
15. 《Arkham Horror: The Card Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
16. 《Android: Netrunner》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
17. 《Zombicide》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
18. 《Blood Rage》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
19. 《Pandemic》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
20. 《Star Wars: X-Wing Miniatures Game》
Size: 41 x 63 mm (Mini US Size)
21. 《Scythe》
Size: 57 x 87 mm (Bridge Size)
22. 《Agricola》
Size: 59 x 92 mm (Small Euro Size)
23. 《Eldritch Horror》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
24. 《Terraforming Mars》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
25. 《The Lord of the Rings: The Card Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
26. 《Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
27. 《Mansions of Madness》
Size: 41 x 63 mm (Mini US Size)
28. 《A Game of Thrones: The Card Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
29. 《Warhammer: Age of Sigmar》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
30. 《Mage Knight》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
31. 《Descent: Journeys in the Dark》
Size: 41 x 63 mm (Mini US Size)
32. 《Clank!》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
33. 《Twilight Struggle》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm ( Standard Size)
34. 《Gloom》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
35. 《Sushi Go!》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
36. 《Race for the Galaxy》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
37. 《Pathfinder Adventure Card Game》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
38. 《Dead of Winter》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
39. 《Splendor》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
40. 《T.I.M.E Stories》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
41. 《Cosmic Encounter》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
42. 《Eclipse》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
43. 《Kingdom Death: Monster》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
44. 《Brass: Birmingham》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
45. 《Concordia》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
46. 《Power Grid》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
47. 《Terraforming Mars》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
48. 《Great Western Trail》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
49. 《Codenames》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
50. 《Terraforming Mars》
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (Standard Size)
Summary
Standard Size (63.5 x 88 mm): This is the most common size for many tabletop game cards.
Mini Size and Bridge Size: These sizes are widely used in some European and American tabletop games.
Large Size: Such as 80 x 120 mm used by Dixit, suitable for games that require more display space.
These card sizes provide compatibility for popular tabletop games worldwide and determine the reference standards for players when choosing card sleeves and other accessories.
Sports Cards
The size, thickness, issuing company, series and corresponding card sleeve size of sports trading cards are topics that collectors are very concerned about. Below is our list of common sports trading card sizes, thickness, issuing companies and series, issuing years and recommended card sleeve sizes.
1. Standard Size（Standard Size）
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt, 75pt, 100pt, 130pt, 180pt, 240pt, 360pt（Different thicknesses usually indicate the quality and rarity of the card.）
Series: Upper Deck Series 1, Upper Deck SP Authentic
Year of issue: 1989 to present
Card sleeve size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm (standard card sleeve size), select the corresponding hard card sleeve or protective shell according to the thickness of the card.
2. Mini Size
Size: 50 x 70 mm (1.968 x 2.75 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps, Panini
Common serie:
Topps Allen & Ginter:
Series: Allen & Ginter Mini
Year of issue: 2006 to present
Topps T206:
Series: Topps T206 Baseball
Year of issue: First restart in 2002 (based on the T206 series of 1909-1911)
Size recommendation: 52 x 74 mm (mini card holder size), it is recommended to use a mini card holder and hard shell protection.
3. Oversize Cards
Size: 76 x 127 mm (3 x 5 inches) or bigger
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt, 75pt
Issuing company: Topps, Panini, Upper Deck
Common serie:
Topps:
Series: Topps Box Toppers
Year of Issue: 1990 to present
Upper Deck:
Serie: Upper Deck Jumbo Cards
Year of Issue: 1990 to present
Size recommendation: 79 x 130 mm or larger Large Size ferrule and hard case protection。
4. Panini Sticker Cards
Size: 49 x 69 mm (1.929 x 2.717 inches)
Thickness: 20pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Series: Panini World Cup Stickers, Panini NBA Stickers
Year of Issue: 1970 to present (Soccer World Cup stickers)
Size recommendation: 50 x 70 mm (small Japanese Size card case), with the option of a dedicated sticker cover and small hard case.
5. Topps Tall Boy
Size: 63.5 x 130 mm (2.5 x 5.125 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Series: Topps Tall Boy (1965 NFL), 2012 Topps Tall Boy Inserts
Year of Issue: First introduced in 1965, re-introduced in 2012 as a retro insert card
Size recommendation: 66 x 132 mm (special long ferrule), long ferrule and custom hard case are recommended。
6. Topps Super Cards
Size: 102 x 146 mm (4 x 5.75 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Super Baseball
Year of Issue: Released again in the 1970s and 1980s
Size recommendation: Large Size cases and hard cases 104 x 148 mm or larger.
7. 1989 Upper Deck Baseball
Size: 63.5 x 89 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt
Issuing company: Upper Deck
Common serie:
Upper Deck:
Serie: 1989 Upper Deck Baseball
Year of Issue: 1989
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeve and 35pt hard card case。
8. Panini Prizm
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Panini Prizm Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2012 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard ferrules and hard shells of corresponding thickness.
9. Topps Chrome
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Chrome Baseball, Football
Year of Issue: 1996 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeve and 35pt hard card case.
10. Panini Donruss Optic
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Donruss Optic Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2016 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard ferrules and hard shells of corresponding thickness。
11. Topps Project 2020
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 100pt, 130pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Project 2020
Year of Issue: 2020
Size recommendation: 65 x 90 mm Thick card sleeve and hard shells of corresponding thickness
12. Panini Immaculate Collection
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 130pt, 180pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Immaculate Collection Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2014 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeve and 130pt or 180pt hard card case.
13. Upper Deck Exquisite Collection
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 180pt, 240pt
Issuing company: Upper Deck
Common serie:
Upper Deck:
Serie: Exquisite Collection Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2003
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thickened card sleeve and 180pt or 240pt hard card case.
14. Panini National Treasures
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 180pt, 240pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: National Treasures Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2010 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thickened card sleeve and 180pt or 240pt hard card case.
15. Topps Dynasty
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 180pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Dynasty Baseball
Year of Issue: 2014 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeve and 180pt hard card case.
16. Panini Flawless
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 240pt, 360pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Flawless Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2012 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thickened card sleeve and 240pt or 360pt hard card case.
17. Topps Triple Threads
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 130pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Triple Threads Baseball
Year of Issue: 2006 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeve and 130pt hard card case.
18. Panini Spectra
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 100pt, 130pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Spectra Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2013 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeves and 100pt or 130pt hard card cases.
19. Topps Five Star
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 180pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Five Star Baseball, Football
Year of Issue: 2012 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeve and 180pt hard card case.
20. Panini One
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 130pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Panini One Football
Year of Issue: 2019 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeve and 130pt hard card case.
21. Topps Museum Collection
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 100pt, 130pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Museum Collection Baseball, Football
Year of Issue: 2011 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm Thick card sleeves and 100pt or 130pt hard card cases.
22. Panini Contenders
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Contenders Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 1998 (Founded by Playoff, later acquired by Panini)
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
23. Topps Allen & Ginter
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Allen & Ginter Baseball
Year of Issue: 2006 to present(Based on the original design from 1887)
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
24. Topps Heritage
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Heritage Baseball
Year of Issue: 2001 to present(Replica of classic Topps design)
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
25. Panini Revolution
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Revolution Basketball
Year of Issue: 2015 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
26. Topps Chrome Sapphire
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Chrome Sapphire Baseball
Year of Issue: 2016 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
27. Panini Select
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Select Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2013 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
28. Topps Archives
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 35pt, 55pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Archives Baseball
Year of Issue: First released in 1981, re-released in 2012
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeves and 35pt or 55pt hard card cases.
29. Panini Origins
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 55pt, 75pt
Issuing company: Panini
Common serie:
Panini:
Serie: Origins Basketball, Football
Year of Issue: 2016 to present
Size recommendation: 64 x 89 mm Standard card sleeve and 55pt or 75pt hard card case.
30. Topps Transcendent
Size: 63.5 x 88 mm (2.5 x 3.5 inches)
Thickness: 240pt, 360pt
Issuing company: Topps
Common serie:
Topps:
Serie: Topps Transcendent Baseball
Year of Issue: 2016 to present
Size recommendation: 66 x 91 mm thickened card sleeve and 240pt or 360pt hard card case.
Summary
Card size and recommended card sleeve size
When choosing a protective sleeve for your soccer cards, it is important to understand the specific size and thickness of the card. This is our comprehensive recommendation after years of market research and consumer discussions:
Standard Size Cards (63.5 x 88 mm): Use standard card holders (64 x 89 mm), and choose a hard card case based on thickness (35pt, 55pt, 75pt, 100pt, 130pt, 180pt, 240pt, 360pt).
Mini Size Cards (50 x 70 mm): Use a mini card holder (52 x 74 mm).
Large Size Cards (76 x 127 mm or larger): Choose the corresponding extra-large card holder (79 x 130 mm or according to the actual size) to ensure that the cards have enough space for protection.
Thick Cards: For cards with a thickness of 130pt and above, use a thick card holder (66 x 91 mm) and choose a hard card case of appropriate thickness.
How to choose card sleeve
Understand the specific size and thickness of the card: Make sure you know the exact size of the card (for example, standard 63.5 x 88 mm) and thickness (35pt, 55pt, etc.).
Choose the right card sleeve size: Usually the size of the card sleeve is 1-2 mm larger than the card to ensure that the card can be inserted smoothly.
Choose a hard card case for rare and thick cards: Choose a suitable hard card case for those thicker or high-value cards to avoid bending and damage.
Consider thick card sleeves: For cards thicker than 130pt, choose thick card sleeves for additional protection.
By following these tips, you can ensure your cards are optimally protected and maintain their collectible value.
About Card Sleeves
As an experienced card game collector, protecting my cards is always a top priority. Through my experience, I've learned that card sleeves are not just simple plastic protectors but crucial for maintaining the perfect condition and long-term value of cards. Here are some insights from my experience with card sleeves, hoping to offer some guidance for fellow collectors.
1. Basic Functions and Importance of Card Sleeves
Cards are highly susceptible to environmental damage during everyday use and collection. Whether it's oil stains, dust, water marks, or accidental creases and wear, these can cause irreversible harm to the cards. Especially for rare cards with high collectible value, even minor damage can significantly reduce their worth. Thus, using card sleeves becomes particularly important.
Card Sleeve has the following basic functions
Water and Dust Protection: Sleeves effectively prevent moisture and dust from reaching the card, keeping its surface clean and intact.
Scratch Protection: Sleeves protect cards from scratches during use, especially on edges and corners which are most prone to damage.
Wear Prevention: Frequent use can cause friction wear on both sides of the card. Sleeves help minimize this wear.
Enhanced Feel: High-quality sleeves not only protect the cards but also improve the tactile feel, making handling smoother.
2. Choosing the Right Card Sleeves
When choosing card sleeves, I consider the following factors
Size Matching: The size of the sleeve must match the card exactly—not too big or too small. A sleeve that's too large will cause the card to slide, while a sleeve that's too small can press on the card’s edges, leading to bending or distortion. For Standard Size cards (63.5 x 88 mm), I usually choose sleeves measuring 64 x 89 mm. This size ensures stability without being too tight.
Thickness Selection: The thickness of the sleeve is also a consideration. Typically, sleeves with a thickness of 35µm to 100µm are suitable for regular cards, providing adequate protection without affecting handling. For thicker or high-value cards, I usually choose sleeves thicker than 100µm or use them with hard cases for added protection.
Transparency and Smoothness: The transparency of the sleeve directly affects the card's display. High-quality sleeves should be highly transparent, making the card’s artwork and text clear. Additionally, a smooth surface reduces friction between the fingers and the card, enhancing the handling experience.
Anti-Static Properties: Some sleeves have anti-static features that prevent dust and debris from sticking to the card’s surface, keeping them clean and tidy. This is very useful for long-term storage and display.
3. Sleeve Use for Different Card Types
Standard Cards: Most cards, such as Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon TCG, use Standard Size sleeves for daily protection needs. In formal play and casual games, standard thickness sleeves provide adequate protection without affecting handling.
Rare and Limited Edition Cards: For rare or limited edition cards, I usually place them in hard cases after putting on regular sleeves. This not only protects the cards from damage but also enhances their collectible and display value.
Vintage and Commemorative Cards: Vintage cards, due to their age and fragile paper, require thicker sleeves or even double protection. Since these cards are mostly for collection and display rather than actual play, durability and protection of the sleeves are particularly important.
Special Sized Cards: For cards with special sizes, such as Tarot-sized (70 x 120 mm) or mini-sized cards, I select sleeves that match the dimensions to ensure every corner of the card is well protected.
4. Daily Maintenance and Care of Card Sleeves
Even if your cards are protected by sleeves, regular care is essential. Over time, sleeves might get scratches or stains, so it might be time to consider replacements. For long-term storage, keep your cards in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and high temperatures to prevent sleeve deformation and card moisture.
For especially valuable cards, I store them in dehumidifying boxes or special display cases. This helps keep out moisture and dust while protecting the cards from external damage.
Overall, card sleeves are essential tools for protecting your cards. By choosing and using them correctly, you can effectively safeguard your cards, extend their lifespan, and maintain their value. As a collector, I understand the importance of each card, and sleeves are undoubtedly the best ally in achieving this. I hope these tips help make your collecting journey smoother and more enjoyable.
5. Recommended Data Reference for Card Sleeves
1,000 POINTS = 1 IN. = 25.4 MM
35 PT (≈ 0.9 mm): Suitable for Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, anime cards, regular/base/signature cards, Hoops, etc.
55 PT (≈ 1.4 mm): Suitable for thin jersey cards, signature cards, Prizm, Cute Boom, Spotlight Series, etc.
75 PT (≈ 1.9 mm): Suitable for physical cards, the thinnest jersey physical cards, ticket series, etc.
100 PT (≈ 2.5 mm): Suitable for physical cards, diamond-cut cards, small real gold, Origins series, etc.
130 PT (≈ 3.3 mm): Suitable for high-end basketball cards, physical cards, IMM, hand-held cards, National Treasures, NOIR series, etc.
180 PT (≈ 4.6 mm): Suitable for thick physical cards, specifically for IMM shoe cut cards.
260 PT (≈ 6.6 mm): Suitable for precious metal physical cards.
360 PT (≈ 9.1 mm): Suitable for sneaker cards, including gold and silver bar series.
By following the recommended parameters above and choosing the appropriate sleeve size, you can ensure that your sports trading cards receive optimal protection, which helps achieve higher ratings during grading and maintains their highest collectible value.
As producers of card sleeves and avid collectors of NBA trading cards, protecting sports cards has always been my top priority. Throughout my journey as a sports card collector, I have come to realize that card sleeves are not just simple plastic protectors; they are crucial for maintaining the cards in perfect condition and preserving their long-term value. Here are some insights based on my experience using card sleeves to protect sports trading cards, and I hope this can provide some assistance to fellow collectors.
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