Card Talk #017 - Spider-man, Batman, Einstein, Oh My!

On this episode of Card Talk, Tyler Schmitt sits down with Max Norris of Putnam Cards for a deep dive into one of the most fascinating areas of the hobby right now: non-sports and vintage cards.Max breaks down how his collecting journey expanded from basketball into Larry David, Stranger Things, Disney, Pokémon, historical figures, artists, and much more. The conversation explores why these markets are gaining attention, how collectors can discover overlooked cards, and the importance of doing your own research when there isn't a centralized source of information.The two also discuss the difference between collecting and investing, how to stay disciplined when the hobby offers endless opportunities, and whether collectors should be looking ahead to upcoming movies, characters, and cultural moments. They dive into examples ranging from Doctor Doom and Spider-Man to Van Gogh, Einstein, Martin Luther King Jr., and the 1966 Batman card.One of the biggest themes of the episode is why the actual card matters. Photography, artwork, scarcity, historical significance, and utility can all play a role in creating a truly great collectible. Tyler and Max question whether the hobby can continue to thrive if everything is simply about the latest chase card, and why older cards with a story or purpose may ultimately have lasting power.Plus, Tyler talks about his recent travels, the London Card Show, the upcoming Card Talk NYC event, and the return of Play of the Week