The Collector's Glossary
The world of trading cards can be tricky and confusing. Trading cards have been around for over 100 years, and in that time, collectors have come up with a lot of special terms and words.
To help you get started, we have put together a glossary with the most important and common words used in “The Hobby.”
— The Huddle FC
A standard common card which makes up the majority of each card set.
A variation of a base card that features some form of difference, like a unique colour, foil, or design element. Parallel cards are often more limited in production and are sought after by collectors due to their rarity and distinctive appearance.
A special card that is randomly included in packs, in addition to the base cards. Insert cards often have unique designs, special themes, or feature star players and can be more valuable and harder to find than regular base cards.
A card that contains a piece of memorabilia, like a jersey, ball, or boot. Relic cards are popular among collectors because they include actual items worn or used by players.
A card that features a player’s signature. Autograph cards are highly prized by collectors and can vary in rarity depending on the player’s popularity and the number of cards signed.
A card that features both a player’s signature and a piece of memorabilia, like a jersey or boot. These cards are especially valuable due to the combination of the autograph and the relic.
A player’s first officially licensed card from their debut season. Rookie cards are highly valued by collectors, especially if the player goes on to have a successful career.
A card that folds open like a book, often featuring multiple panels with autographs, relics, or detailed images. Book cards are unique and often highly sought after by collectors.
A card that has been evaluated and assigned a condition grade by a professional grading service. Graded cards are encased in a protective holder and the grade helps determine the card’s value and authenticity.
A sealed box containing multiple packs of trading cards, typically used by collectors. Hobby boxes are often purchased by enthusiasts looking to obtain a variety of cards from a specific set or series.