The 1970s was an iconic decade for baseball cards. New sets were released each year by the main issuers Topps and Fleer, capturing the biggest stars and best moments from the MLB seasons. While older generations hold a nostalgia for cards from the 1950s and 60s, many collectors today consider the 1970s as the golden age of baseball cards when it comes to design, photography and cards of Hall of Fame players. Here’s a more in-depth look at some of the standout 1970s baseball cards that still captivate collectors today.

1973 Topps #139 Hank Aaron – Hank Aaron surpassed Babe Ruth’s career home run record of 714 homers in April 1974 when he hit his 715th, making him one of the most celebrated players of the decade. His 1973 Topps card captured him mid-swing and is one of the most coveted in the set with its significance. Low print runs have kept high grade examples valuable at thousands of dollars today.

1974 Topps #1 Nolan Ryan – Ryan’s back was to the camera as he windup to fire a fastball, showing off his infamous 100 mph heat. As one of the hardest throwers ever, this card captured Ryan at the peak of his powers during a season where he struck out 283 batters. High Tek copies can still fetch over $1000 in pristine condition due to its place as the set’s premier chase card.

1975 Topps #500 Reggie Jackson – October became known as “Reggie October” after Jackson’s MVP performance in the 1975 World Series, slugging 3 home runs in the clinching Game 6 off the Reds. This card from later in his career showed him in an A’s uniform, exuding confidence with bat on shoulder in a pose that epitomized his swagger. Near mint copies sell for over $500.

1976 SSPC #34 George Brett – Topps lost its MLB license after 1975, so sports card giant Sportspage produced sets in 1976 and 1977. Their 1976 set included rookie cards of Hall of Famers like Brett posed mid-swing in Royals brown and gold. High grade versions remain pricey at $400-500 for his smooth, smiling face.

1977 Topps #20 Nolan Ryan – Ryan’s consecutive no-hitter streak began after throwing his 4th career no-no on June 1, 1975. Topps captured him slinging another heater, framed by an angelic glow in a classic action shot. Still one of the most coveted in the iconic design that year, pristine 10’s can bring over $1000.

1978 Topps #150 Ron Guidry – Guidry had a career year in 1978, going 25-3 with a 1.74 ERA to take home AL Cy Young and MVP honors. This card shows him mid-windup, exemplifying his fluid delivery during his dominant season. Near mint copies consistently sell for $250-300, a true example of how performance translates to card value.

1979 Topps #500 Joe Morgan – The “Little Genius” was a 5-time league All-Star and 1975 & 1976 NL MVP, so it’s fitting he was placed at the end of the staggering 660-card 1979 Topps set. Posed signing autographs in an Astros uniform, it’s one of the most iconic action shots of the decade despite lack of team logos. High grades fetch $500+.

1980 Topps #1 Nolan Ryan – The tradition of leading off flagship Topps sets with the holder of a prestigious record continued as Ryan’s 7th career no-hitter the previous season earned him card #1 honors for the 2nd time. Posed windmilling another fastball, prized PSA 10’s can reach $2000 nowadays.

While the players and card designs changed yearly, the 1970s consistently delivered stunning photography capturing the game’s biggest names at the peak of their powers. Advanced collectors seeking the true pinnacle releases from that golden era for baseball cards won’t be disappointed studying the superb examples above that still dazzle decades later. Whether due to performance, rarity or nostalgia, these 1970s cards continue to represent the best the hobby has to offer from that storied time period.