In a move that’s sending waves of relief and excitement through the community of puck, bat, and jersey enthusiasts across Canada, a new insurance scheme tailor-made for sports memorabilia collectors has been unveiled. This distinctive offering, brought forth by the collaborative prowess of NFP and Berkley Asset Protection, is poised to fill the gaping void left by standard homeowners insurance policies when it comes to high-value sports collectibles.
Navigating the intricate world of collectibles insurance can often feel like trying to score a hat-trick against a team of formidable goalies. Fortunately, Greg Dunn, Managing Director of Personal Risk at NFP in Canada, acts as the seasoned coach guiding collectors through thick and thin. Dunn pointed out the crucial need for comprehensive coverage that goes beyond the generic, often ill-fitting policies offered by many insurance providers. This program not only covers the jerseys and cards once they’ve found their way into a collection but also shields them during transit and immediately upon acquisition, ensuring that items are never left unprotected.
Imagine securing a rare Wayne Gretzky rookie card or a signed Joe Carter World Series jersey. Under ordinary circumstances, the worry of whether your homeowner’s insurance truly safeguards your newfound treasure could dampen the joy of such a momentous acquisition. Here, however, the program introduces an aspect of automatic coverage for new additions, a feature akin to having an invisible protective case snapped around your item the moment it becomes yours.
Olivia Cinqmars-Viau, the AVP of fine art underwriting at Berkley Asset Protection, eloquently highlighted the bespoke nature of this new insurance solution. It’s not a one-size-fits-all affair; rather, it’s akin to a custom-fitted glove designed specifically for the hand that wears it. The collectors’ needs dictate the protection, ensuring every base is covered, from the most minimal risks to the most daunting exposures.
Steve Menzie, president and owner of the Sport Card & Memorabilia Expo, which is the largest gathering of its kind in Canada, also chimed in with his endorsement of the initiative. From his vantage point at the helm of the expo, Menzie sees firsthand the passion and significant financial investment that collectors pour into their hobbies. Many enthusiasts, he noted, regard their collections with a sentimental value that often eclipses the financial aspect. Yet, recognizing the need to safeguard these financial investments against potential loss is vital. Menzie’s support underscores the program’s importance in blending emotional and fiscal protection, thus enhancing the collector’s experience by eliminating underlying worries about potential loss.
With the upcoming Sport Card & Memorabilia Expo scheduled to take place in Toronto from April 25-28, the NFP’s Personal Risk team is gearing up to step into the collector’s box and hit a home run. They will be on hand to elucidate the benefits of their new offering, aiming to arm collectors with the knowledge and protection they need. This presence is more than just promotional; it’s a cornerstone of NFP’s broader commitment to serve, understand, and cater to the unique demands of various collector communities.
For collectors, the message is clear: The thrill of the hunt for rare, valuable sports memorabilia shouldn’t be dampened by worries of loss or damage. This new insurance program promises to guard the gates, keeping potential risks at bay while enthusiasts continue to enjoy the game. Whether your collection includes signed baseballs, vintage hockey sticks, or rare trading cards, the new tailored insurance offering ensures that your treasures are well-guarded, letting you focus on what truly matters—growing your incredible collection.