Autographs & memorabilia
Redemption
A redemption is a voucher pulled in place of a card that was not ready at print, which you exchange online for the real card later. Autographs are the most common redemptions.
Sometimes a card, usually an autograph, is not finished when a product ships because the player has not signed yet. Instead of the card, you pull a redemption card with a code you enter on the manufacturer's site, and they mail the real card when it is ready.
Wait times vary from weeks to, occasionally, years, and some redemptions are replaced with a card of equal value if the original never arrives.
Why it matters: redemptions carry a little uncertainty, so an unredeemed voucher often sells for less than the finished card, and the wait is a real factor collectors weigh.
This glossary is a plain-language reference for collectors, not financial or purchasing advice. Card values move, so always check recent sales before you buy or sell.