What Trading Cards Should You Put In A Magnetic One Touch Trading Card Holder?

If you’re an avid trading card collector, you’ve likely come across magnetic one-touch trading card holders. These premium card protectors are designed to safeguard your most valuable and prized cards, ensuring they remain in pristine condition. But how do you determine which cards deserve a spot in these top-tier holders? In this blog, we’ll cover the best types of cards to protect with a one-touch case and why they’re worth the investment.

What Is A Magnetic One Touch Trading Card Holder?

A magnetic one-touch trading card holder is a high-quality, durable case designed to protect and display trading cards without the need for screws or side-loading mechanisms. These holders feature a magnetic closure, making them easy to open and close while providing a secure seal to keep dust, moisture, and fingerprints away. They come in different thicknesses (measured in points) to accommodate various card types, from standard base cards to thicker relic and patch cards.

Unlike traditional top loaders or penny sleeves, magnetic holders offer a premium level of protection, reducing the risk of bending, creasing, or surface damage. Some also come with built-in UV protection to prevent fading and discoloration over time. They are ideal for collectors who want to showcase their most prized possessions in an aesthetically appealing manner while ensuring long-term safety.

Types of Trading Cards That Should Go in a Magnetic One Touch Holder

Not every card in your collection needs to be placed in a magnetic one-touch holder. The following categories of cards are the best candidates for this level of protection:

1. Rookie Cards (RCs)

Rookie cards are often the most sought-after cards of any player, particularly if the athlete goes on to have a Hall of Fame career. Cards like a Patrick Mahomes 2017 Panini Prizm Rookie Card or a LeBron James 2003 Topps Chrome Rookie Card can significantly appreciate in value over time. These cards deserve the highest level of protection to prevent wear, fading, or accidental damage.

Collectors often treat rookie cards as long-term investments, and using a magnetic one-touch holder ensures they maintain their mint condition. Since these cards may increase in value significantly, preserving them properly can result in a much higher resale price in the future.

2. Autographed Cards

Signed trading cards, whether obtained directly from a pack (on-card or sticker autographs) or signed in person, are typically irreplaceable. A magnetic one-touch holder helps protect the signature from smudging, fading, or exposure to harmful elements.

Since autographs are a key factor in a card’s value, using a protective case prevents accidental rubbing or degradation. Collectors who store their autographed cards in penny sleeves or top loaders risk the signature fading due to environmental exposure. One-touch holders create an airtight seal, ensuring the autograph remains clear and vibrant for years.

3. Serial Numbered and Limited Edition Cards

Cards with a low print run, such as 1/1s (one-of-one), /5, /10, or /25 serial-numbered parallels, are often highly collectible. These cards are difficult to replace, making it essential to use a secure and high-quality case like a magnetic one-touch holder.

Since serial-numbered cards are inherently rare, their value is tied to their scarcity. Storing them in a sturdy case reduces the risk of accidental handling damage and keeps them safe from fingerprints, dust, and minor impacts. Some collectors even opt for double protection by placing the one-touch holder inside a graded card bag to further shield it from scratches.

4. Patch & Memorabilia Cards

Cards that contain game-worn jersey patches, bat relics, or other pieces of sports history tend to be thicker than standard cards, requiring proper protection. A one-touch holder with the right point size (e.g., 130pt or 180pt) is ideal for these valuable relic cards.

Memorabilia cards can be highly sought after, especially if they feature patches from legendary athletes or come from significant game moments. Because these cards have delicate materials embedded within them, using a magnetic case ensures that the patch or relic remains undamaged while preventing pressure from distorting the fabric.

5. High-End Inserts & Short Prints (SPs & SSPs)

Premium insert sets such as Kaboom! (Panini), Color Blast, Downtown, and Stained Glass feature stunning artwork and design, making them highly desirable among collectors. Short prints (SPs) and super short prints (SSPs) are intentionally printed in low numbers, making them rare and valuable. These deserve premium protection in a magnetic holder.

Collectors often see SPs and SSPs as the crown jewels of their collection due to their scarcity. Because they are only found in select packs and in very limited numbers, keeping them in pristine condition is essential. Magnetic cases provide the best balance of security and display quality for these elite cards.

6. Vintage Cards

Classic cards from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, especially iconic rookie cards of legends like Mickey Mantle, Wilt Chamberlain, and Wayne Gretzky, should be stored in magnetic cases to prevent aging-related deterioration.

Older cards are more susceptible to wear, fading, and discoloration due to the materials used in their production. A magnetic holder helps prevent exposure to oxygen, moisture, and oils from human hands, all of which can degrade vintage cards over time. For ultra-valuable vintage cards, adding a silica gel packet in your storage area can further help reduce humidity-related issues.

7. Personal Favorites or Cards with Sentimental Value

Not all valuable cards are defined by their market price—some hold deep sentimental value. Whether it's a card from your childhood, a gift from a loved one, or a card associated with a special memory, these deserve the same level of protection as high-end collectibles.

For many collectors, cards that spark nostalgia or represent a personal milestone are just as important as rare inserts or rookie cards. Storing these in a magnetic one-touch holder not only preserves their condition but also allows you to display them with pride, ensuring they remain in great shape for years to come.

Choosing the Right Size Magnetic Holder

Magnetic holders come in different sizes (thickness measured in points). Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right one:

• 35pt – Standard base cards (e.g., Topps Chrome, Prizm, Optic)
• 55pt – Slightly thicker cards like some autographs
• 75pt – Medium-thickness cards (thicker inserts and parallels)
• 100pt – Memorabilia cards with a jersey patch
• 130pt+ – Thick patch relics and booklets

Final Thoughts

A magnetic one-touch trading card holder is an excellent investment for safeguarding your most valuable and cherished cards. Whether you’re preserving a rookie card, autographed card, or a high-end insert, using these holders ensures maximum protection, longevity, and display quality. If you have cards of significant monetary or sentimental value, consider storing them in a magnetic case to maintain their pristine condition for years to come.