We believe that transparency is key to building trust between TCGplayer and our sellers. As a part of our committed to being open and honest with our sellers, we've compiled a list of FAQs explaining why TCGplayer is planning to periodically sell its own serialized cards on eBay. ​

 

What is happening?

TCGplayer plans to periodically sell its owned, sealed and serialized cards on eBay.

 

Why is TCGplayer selling cards on eBay?

As a function of operating the Direct by TCGplayer program, TCGplayer ends up with many 1 of 1 serialized, unique cards that cannot be matched as Direct eligible inventory. Auctioning these cards to the public is the best way to sell them and re-invest the proceeds back into the Direct program.

 

Where do these cards come from?

TCGplayer is constantly purchasing and opening sealed products to maintain a carefully curated Direct eligible inventory at our Authentication Center. As a function of this, TCGplayer sometimes ends up with cards that cannot be used as Direct inventory.

The biggest share of these cards in recent years have been serialized Magic cards: cards stamped with a fractional number like “126/500” that marks them as completely unique. Each serialized card is one-of-a-kind—other copies of the card exist, but only one copy has each specific number.


Why is TCGplayer selling sealed Booster Boxes on eBay?

As a function of operating the Direct by TCGplayer program, TCGplayer occasionally ends up with Booster Boxes that are not eligible to be sold through our Direct program. Sealed boxes require more information in the listing than TCGplayer Direct is set up for. Offering these items for sale on ebay is the best way to sell them and re-invest the proceeds back into the Direct program.

What is Direct by TCGplayer?

Direct by TCGplayer is a fulfillment service offered to sellers on the TCGplayer marketplace . You can read more about how Direct by TCGplayer works here.

 

When will TCGplayer do this and how frequently will it occur?

TCGplayer kicked off auctions of a first set of serialized cards starting on Thursday, February 29th, 2024. And began listing Booster Boxes on April 9, 2024. As we acquire more serialized and sealed products, we will periodically make them available on eBay from time to time.

 

What does TCGplayer plan to do with the proceeds?

We plan to use the proceeds of these sales to re-invest in the success of our Direct program. We are constantly expanding and optimizing the breadth and depth of Direct eligible inventory. This initiative will help us to accomplish that goal more effectively.