New TXST Newsroom article below:

@EPonMantel

https://news.txst.edu/faculty-experts/2026/five-questions-about-the-trading-card-frenzy.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yoEIrJAUMU

In the process of collecting and photo-matching game-used football jerseys, I’ve encountered situations when I’m pretty sure a jersey was worn in a certain game but I can’t find definitive visual proof. I went on Amazon and bought a handheld magnification loupe and it’s already one of the best purchases I’ve ever made.

I examined a game-used 2004 Cowboys jersey of Richie Anderson and found clear evidence of yellow paint transfers on one of the sleeves, demonstrating that the jersey was also worn in a game against the Redskins, which I suspected.

These would be helpful for anyone who wants to examine cards closely before deciding to send them for grading, or if you have autos that you want to verify are live signatures. They’re marketed as a kid’s toy but they’re great for anyone. I’m not providing the name of the one I bought - just recommending you give this kind of product a look.

We're incredibly grateful to Barron’s for featuring Collectors MD and helping bring national attention to an important conversation that has gone largely overlooked.

As the hobby continues to evolve, it's more important than ever to have honest, evidence-informed discussions about the ways collecting environments can influence behavior - for both adults and young collectors. Awareness isn't about taking the fun out of collecting. It's about helping people engage more intentionally, recognize risk, and know that support exists when the hobby starts taking more than it gives.

Thank you to the Barron's team for shining a light on this important and pressing issue, and for helping amplify the mission of Collectors MD.

https://www.barrons.com/articles/pokemon-baseball-cards-gambling-8ebdf1be?st=capAaV&reflink=mobilewebshare_permalink#