The S.C. Card Show is back with its third event to be held from June 27-29 at the State Fairgrounds. One year after its launch, the show is looking to be bigger and better than before. 

Aaron Cordero is the owner of Lexington’s Palmetto Cards and has collected since he was a kid. He and his team decided to start the show to help foster fun memories and show South Carolina can be a hot spot for the hobby.

“ I'm trying to make it a big event for the state. I think a lot of people are sleeping on the state of South Carolina a little bit,” Cordero said. “ I feel like the show is kind of my way of trying to bring the community together, and I want that for everyone.”

This edition of the S.C. card show will be bigger than either of the previous two. The show is expected to feature over 300 tables, showcasing some of the country's largest dealers. Many high-profile athletes will be in attendance, including current Gamecocks. There will also be multiple food trucks on site to get a bite to eat while visiting. 

“We try to go above and beyond,” Cordero said. 

Some of the notable athletes set to attend include Bo Jackson, Dale Murphy, Grayson Greiner and Marcus “Buff” Bagwell. A few Gamecocks will be on site as well, including Judge Collier, Oscar Adaway III and Irmo’s own Donovan Murph. 

These athletes will be available for autograph signings. Times and price varies, with some charging a fee and others granting one free autograph. 

Attracting these names to the event is a big part of what draws people to shows. Cordero was able to use his personal relationships to attract some of the bigger names. He also negotiated with agents and NIL agencies to lock down the deals. 

“ We're in the new world when it comes to college athletics,” Cordero said. “ Everyone wants to be compensated for their name, image, likeness, and they should be. We have no problem with that. It's just trying to strike that balance of what can be justified in terms of an expense, and what are people willing to pay?”

To get the word out, the show has been marketing itself on social media. It also formed a partnership with the Columbia Fireflies to host a trading night on June 28, giving collectors a chance to meet others and enjoy a game outside the show.  

“ We'll have tables set up and people will be able to have a trade night, trade cards and do different things,” Cordero said. “Saturday night, when they have fireworks at the ballpark, they get a ton of people at their games. So, we're also trying to expose new people to the hobby.”

For people interested in the hobby, this show is a great place to meet others and find unique pieces for your collection. Some of the biggest vendors in the nation will be in attendance, including Tag Grading, Robert Edwards Auction, Probstein and World Champion Sports Cards. 

“ These guys have sold and set some of the biggest records in the hobby,” Cordero said. “People are going to get exposed to some things that they just don't get to see every day.”

While walking into a building filled with hundreds of tables and thousands of cards can be overwhelming, Cordero gave a few useful tips to help people get what they’re looking for. 

First, know what cards are being sought out. Make a list or keep notes on which ones are most important. Then, if found, don’t leave them for later. 

“ Don't be surprised if it sells. That's a very common thing that happens,” Cordero said. “If there's something that you're really after and you get there and see it, don't let it slip away.” 

Cordero said if walking away to wait until later, take a picture of the card and its location, whether it's in a box or binder. 

It is also highly recommended to bring cash. Many vendors are not equipped to take credit or debit cards. While some sellers accept digital methods like Venmo and PayPal, not all do. Fortunately, ATMs will be on site for convenience. 

Lastly, Cordero said, don’t be afraid to negotiate with the sellers. While they are there to make money, many will cut deals and give discounts. It is important to be respectful and approach negotiations fairly. 

“They’ll give you their best price,” Cordero said. “ I always remind consumers that vendors have a lot of money tied up in their show expenses. … So, I understand everyone wants to get a good deal, but they’ve got to be respectful and mindful of all those aspects.”

The show will run Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Friday is reserved for VIP only and runs from 4-8 p.m. Saturday’s show will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday, it runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets cost $10 per day for general admission or $20 for a VIP pass that covers the cost of admission for all three days. 

“ We're just super excited,” Cordero said. “I'm excited for the show. I'm excited to see the support. I'm excited to bring these athletes, and I'm ready, ready for the weekend. I'm just excited to get there and make it happen, and then start working on the next one.”