The 1973 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most iconic issues in the modern era of collecting. Produced during a period of transition in the sport, the ’73 set featured future Hall of Famers and stars from the late 1960s/early 1970s. While it may lack the rookie card allure of sets from the 50s-60s, several key 1973 Topps cards have risen dramatically in value due to the legendary players featured. Let’s examine the 5 most valuable 1973 Topps baseball cards based on PSA 10 gem mint condition:
Nolan Ryan (card #138) – Arguably the greatest power pitcher of all-time, Ryan’s first season with the California Angels is commemorated on his ’73 card. Highly coveted by collectors, mint Ryan rookies routinely crack the $10,000 price point. A PSA 10 just sold for $22,500, highlighting this card’s elite status. Known for his record-setting strikeouts and 100 mph heat, collectors appreciate Ryan’s dominant career immortalized in his iconic Topps RC.
George Brett (card #250) – Brett would go on to have a Hall of Fame career spent entirely with the Kansas City Royals franchise. His rookie card reflects his early promise and depicts Brett batting left-handed. PSA 10 versions consistently sell for $4,000-$6,000 range given Brett’s longevity, hitting prowess, and 1980 batting title season climaxing with a .390 average. One of the more sought-after RCs from this set.
Mike Schmidt (card #499) – Schmidt’s third year card may not be a true rookie, but it captures the beginning of his ascension into the elites of the third base position. By the mid-1970s, “Mike Schmidt” was synonymous with consistency, power, and Gold Gloves manning the hot corner for the Phillies dynasty teams. High-grade versions average $2,000-$3,000 with a PSA 10 recently reaching $4,500 at auction.
Pete Rose (card #481) – Charlie Hustle’s fourth year Topps issue is one of the iconic baseball cards ever produced. With his rugged and gritty playing style represented, Rose’s on-field intensity leaps off the cardboard. As baseball’s all-time hits king, any card featuring Rose retains tremendous appeal. PSA 10s have doubled in the past few years, now selling for $2,500-$3,000. A true grail card for Reds and Pete Rose aficionados worldwide.
Rod Carew (card #30) – One of the sport’s all-time great hitters, Carew’s sweet left-handed swing is on full display in his ’73 card. Well on his way to a career .328 batting average title, Carew exemplified contact and consistency at the plate. With 7 batting titles between 1967-1978, Carew became a player collectors most wanted in the 70s. His high-grade ’73s are increasingly difficult to acquire, with a PSA 10 assessed at $1,800 in today’s market.
While stars like Bench, Yastrzemski, and Fisk played out great careers begun in the 1970s, the above five cards stand out for capturing future legends at their earliest stages. Whether future or past accomplishments, the allure of a Hall of Famer from their early Topps issues drives substantial demand. Condition sensitive issues like the 1973 set rely on careful grading to authenticate high grades. For discerning collectors seeking icons of the vintage baseball card world, these five 1973 Topps gems will remain cornerstone additions.
