What Happens to My Collectibles During an Atlanta Divorce?

In 2025, Fortune reported that certain collectibles (specifically Pokémon and sports cards) were outpacing the S&P 500. While the index generally provides returns of around 11% per year, these trading cards are capable of delivering a more than 46% return on investment per year. While some might scoff at a spouse who is concerned about their collectibles during divorce, this asset could make a real difference in your post-marriage life. Consider asking an Atlanta divorce lawyer what might happen to your collectibles.

When Did You Acquire Your Collectibles?

First, you may want to ask yourself when you acquired these collectibles. Many people with valuable Pokémon or baseball cards start their collections long before marriage, when they are still very young. If this is the case, you shouldn’t have to hand over any of your collection to your ex during divorce. As long as you purchased your collectibles before you signed your marriage contract, these assets are “separate property.” In other words, your ex can’t get hold of them.

If you acquired all or some of your collection during your marriage, things might be a little trickier. In this case, your cards are likely “marital property,” and they are subject to the property division process. In theory, your ex should receive half of your collection’s value. This doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll take half your collection, however. You can maintain your collection by paying your ex 50% of its value. This is called a “buyout.”

Did You Inherit Your Collectibles?

If you inherited your collectibles, your property division process will be a bit different. Inherited property is always separate, regardless of when you received it. For example, you might have inherited a baseball glove signed by a famous player. Perhaps you inherited your grandmother’s collection of antique furniture. Whatever the case may be, this property should remain yours regardless of whether you received it during your marriage. This is one of the few exceptions to the normal rules regarding marital property. 

The Importance of Accurate Appraisals for Your Collectibles 

If you or your ex has high-value collectibles, appraisals could be an important part of the property division process. You should be wary if your ex attempts to downplay the value or importance of their collection. Rather than take their word for it, consider enlisting the help of a professional appraiser. These professionals can determine the true value of the collectibles, and they may be worth much more than you realize. 

Can an Experienced Property Division Lawyer in Atlanta Help? 

An experienced property division lawyer in Atlanta may be able to help you keep hold of your collectibles after divorce. If there is no other option but to divide your collectibles with your ex, a lawyer may be able to help you walk away with as much value as possible. Consider discussing your unique situation with Buckhead Family Law today.

Sources: 

fortune.com/2025/07/12/gen-z-millenial-men-addicted-to-pokemon-sports-trading-cards-outbeat-sp-500-resell-ebay-investment-move/

m.economictimes.com/news/international/us/did-you-realize-this-investment-option-has-outsmarted-sp-500-and-meta-delivering-over-3000-returns-heres-what-it-is-and-how-it-did-it/articleshow/123831013.cms