Collecting sports cards and memorabilia is more than just a hobby — it’s a multigenerational passion for many, including Pat O’Neill, seen here sharing part of his collection with two of his grandchildren.
For Pat O’Neill, senior vice president of Sales and Business Development for Personal Lines at NFP, collecting sports cards and memorabilia isn’t just a hobby. What began as a childhood fascination has grown into a multigenerational passion, shared over the years with his children and grandson.
“For me, it’s like stepping into a time machine,” Pat says. “When I was young, it was magical to spend a nickel on a pack of cards and pull out a hero like Gordie Howe or Bobby Orr. These athletes felt like superheroes to me.”
That magic lives on today, now shared with his grandson. “I have three sons, and when they were younger, we’d go to card shops, buy some packs and open them together,” Pat says. “Now my grandson, who’s eight, is into it — and it’s amazing to see him light up when he looks at some of the older cards I’ve kept over the years.”
Pat’s collection, which includes autographed memorabilia from sports icons and cards dating back to the 1960s, isn’t just valuable — it's a bridge between generations.
The Need for Specialized Sports Collectibles Insurance
As card values rise, many collectors make the mistake of assuming their homeowners insurance will cover their collections. “Most homeowners policies don’t offer enough protection for high-value items such as rare cards,” Pat explains. To address this gap, NFP offers sports/collector card and memorabilia insurance in partnership with Berkley Asset Protection.
“Our stand-alone program is designed specifically for collectors,” Pat says. “It provides automatic coverage for newly acquired items and options for both blanket and scheduled coverage.” As collections grow, the cost per dollar of coverage decreases, making coverage increasingly affordable for serious collectors.
The Changing Landscape of Collecting
In recent years, Pat has noticed a significant shift in the world of card collecting, particularly among younger collectors. What was once a nostalgic hobby for older generations has become a booming market for teens and young adults. “In the last 18 months, I’ve seen young people attending card shows with collections worth tens of thousands of dollars,” Pat explains. “This wasn’t the case 20 years ago when I took my sons to these shows.”
The pandemic also played a role in this resurgence, as people revisited old hobbies and began investing in sports and gaming cards. Some rare cards are now being sold for millions.
“Even cards that weren’t worth much five years ago are now fetching extraordinary sums,” Pat adds. With the rise in value, it’s no longer just about collecting for fun — for many, it has become a serious investment.
Whether you’re collecting for sentimental reasons or as an investment, Pat stresses the importance of getting collections appraised. “Knowing the true value of your collection ensures you have the right insurance coverage.”
Tips for Protecting Your Collection
Drawing on his experience, Pat offers these tips for keeping collections safe and well-preserved:
- Keep your collection off the ground: Store it at least three feet high to avoid flood or moisture damage.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Sunlight can fade cards and autographs.
- Store in a cool, dry area: Heat and humidity can cause damage over time.
- Use protective covers: Place cards in plastic sleeves or top loaders to protect them.
- Do an annual inventory: Regularly review your collection and update your insurance coverage.
- Consider a safety deposit box: For high-value items, extra security is key.
How to Insure Sports/Collector Cards and Memorabilia
Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, the thrill of finding that rare card never fades. For Pat, collecting is about more than just monetary gain — it’s about preserving a passion that spans generations. Whether you’re collecting for enjoyment or financial investment, the need for proper protection is the same.
“All it takes is one event – a flood, fire or even damage during transit – and years of collecting can be wiped out,” he warns.
With NFP’s specialized insurance program, collectors can enjoy their hobby knowing their treasures are safeguarded for the future. “We understand the passion behind collecting, and we’re here to help protect what you love,” Pat says.
Getting started is easy — just fill out this form and email it to insureyourcollection@nfp.ca.