The sports collectors' arms race is heating up and is now solidifying into two primary marketplaces, setting up an increasingly high-stakes battle for control of the burgeoning market.
Online giant eBay announced Wednesday a deal to acquire Goldin Auctions, a major player in the high-end auction segment of the industry. In buying Goldin Auctions from Collectors, eBay (NASDAQ: EBAY) can now take its own sports memorabilia business that does large volumes but at generally lower price points, and pair it with Goldin's expertise in high-end auctions catering frequently to wealthy hobbyists.
Sports Collectors' Showdown
And, in so ...