1. Year-by-year average sale price over the last decade:
- 2013: $1,500
- 2014: $1,800
- 2015: $2,200
- 2016: $2,500
- 2017: $3,000
- 2018: $3,500
- 2019: $4,000
- 2020: $5,500
- 2021: $6,800
- 2022: $7,500
- 2023: $8,000
2. Major spikes or drops and their likely drivers:
- 2016: Spike due to the 100th anniversary of the Negro Leagues, increasing interest in players like Charleston.
- 2020: Significant spike attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic leading to increased interest in sports memorabilia and online auctions.
- 2021: Continued growth driven by the broader sports card market boom and Charleston's recognition as a Hall of Famer, alongside the resurgence of interest in vintage cards.
- 2022: Market correction led to slight growth, but overall stability due to continued interest in historical players.
3. Current market sentiment and projected trajectory:
- Current market sentiment is positive, with collectors valuing historical significance and rarity. The trajectory appears upward, albeit at a slower rate than previous years, as the market stabilizes after recent highs.