Topps baseball cards hold nostalgic value for many collectors and fans of America’s pastime. The 2007 Topps baseball card set provides an interesting snapshot of where the game was at that moment in time. While some cards from the set have increased substantially in value in the ensuing years, others have not appreciated as much. Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable rookies, stars and parallels from the 2007 Topps set to understand which hold more value today.
The class of rookie cards in the 2007 Topps set is iconic. Leading the way is Dodgers superstar Clayton Kershaw’s rookie card. Highly coveted by collectors even back in 2007 for his talent and potential, Kershaw’s rookie has exploded in value since. PSA 10 gem mint copies now fetch over $1,000 with most graded versions in the $200-400 range. Also debuting that year was Tigers ace Justin Verlander. While not quite reaching Kershaw levels, a PSA 10 Verlander rookie exceeds $500 with most graded copies around $100-250.
Another rookie who has paid high dividends is Daisuke Matsuzaka of the Red Sox. His transition from Japan created buzz and his card value has grown significantly. PSA 10’s sell for over $500 with most graded between $150-300. Rangers slugger Ian Kinsler also debuted in 2007 and while not a true “star” rookie, strong performance has lifted his rookie value to $50-150 range depending on grade. Angels slugger Mark Trumbo and Nationals outfielder Josh Hamilton, who had substance abuse issues dampen his rookie value, round out the stronger rookie cards from the set.
In terms of established stars from 2007, cards of Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, Derek Jeter and Albert Pujols still hold value relative to their production and icon status. A-Rod’s update and base cards in mint condition fetch $50-150. The same is true for Ortiz and Jeter despite their ages. A PSA 10 of either would reach $200-300. Pujols remained in his prime in 2007 and a PSA 10 of his base card could exceed $500 with most graded versions around $150-300.
Amongst parallels and inserts, the Topps Chrome refractors and autographs command the highest prices due to their rarity. Kershaw’s refractor and autograph parallel rookie cards regularly sell for $300-1000 depending on quality. The same is true for Verlander refractors and autos. Matsuzaka, as a hype rookie, also has valuable Chrome and auto parallels in the $200-500 range usually. Inserts featuring Jeter, A-Rod or Pujols such as “Greats of the Game” authenticated relic patches can reach $300-1000 when graded well.
In terms of sets and boxes as investments, sealed 2007 Topps wax boxes have held value decently compared to inflation. An unsearched wax box in pristine condition will usually fetch $150-250. The set is readily available to complete cheaply as a collection though individual high-end cards have increased substantially like the stars above. The 2007 Topps baseball set serves as an excellent time capsule of the game during a transitional period. While not equally valuable across the board, certain star rookies and established names continue appreciate the nostalgia and performance attached to their cardboard.
When assessing the values of 2007 Topps baseball cards 15 years later, it’s clear the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Clayton Kershaw and Justin Verlander have shown the most dramatic gains. Stars of that era like A-Rod, Ortiz and Pujols retain value due to production and iconic status. Singles of top rookies like Daisuke Matsuzaka and prospects like Ian Kinsler have also increased over time. While the set as a whole is relatively affordable to complete, the Chrome refractors and autographs of top talents command premium prices.The 2007 Topps set provides an entertaining look back through the cards of players who shaped that period in MLB history.
