Vaulation on cards such as basketball cards from 1988 til 2000?

Answer 1

With the exception of limited edition issues, cards made in this time period were over produced, have a low value, and make a poor investment. Limited edition card are only as valuable as the demand in the market, and over time collectors can loose interest in them. It is very typical for new cards to sell at a high price when first issued, and loose value as time goes by.

The older cards made before the 1980's, and tobacco era, pre war cards make a better investment as the cards are fewer, and collectors are growing in numbers. Investing in trading cards is a poor choice unless it is done as a hobby or for the enjoyment.