The 1968 Topps baseball card set was the seventh series of baseball card issues produced by Topps. The 1968 set totals 660 cards and was issued in wax paper packs of five cards each. Some key things to know about the 1968 Topps baseball card set include:

The Design – The 1968 Topps cards continued with the basic design that had been used since 1965. The photo took up the majority of the front of the card with a colored border around it. Below the photo was a white space for the player’s name, team, and position. The back of the card featured stats and a short biography. While similar to past years, the 1968 design is considered a classic among collectors.

Rookies of Note – Some top rookies featured in the 1968 set included future Hall of Famers Reggie Jackson (Oakland A’s), Joe Morgan (Houston Astros), and Rollie Fingers (Oakland A’s). Other notable rookies included Jon Matlack (New York Mets), Don Gullett (Cincinnati Reds), and Thurman Munson (New York Yankees). Munson’s rookie card in particular is highly sought after today.

Short Print Variations – Topps produced several short print cards in the 1968 set that were rarer than the standard issues. These included Manager Of The Year (Dick Williams, Red Sox), Rookie Of The Year (Tom Seaver, Mets), and All-Star Game cards. In total there were 10 short print variations scattered throughout the set.

High Numbers – The 1968 Topps set included cards numbered from 1 to 660. Any card from 661 on was considered a “high number” variation that was even rarer than the typical issues. The two most coveted 1968 Topps high numbers are the Nate Oliver (#661) and Dick Bates (#662) cards.

Hall of Famers – In total there are 87 future Hall of Famers featured in the 1968 Topps set. This includes superstars like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Sandy Koufax, and Roberto Clemente. Collectors love hunting for the rookie cards of inducted players like Rollie Fingers and Joe Morgan too.

Condition Issues – As with many older sets, finding 1968 Topps cards in high graded condition can be challenging. The flimsy paper stock used at the time leads to creasing and wear over the decades. Gem Mint 10 cards fetch astronomical prices when they surface. Even well-centered examples in EX-MT condition draw keen collector interest.

Investment Potential – Prices for high-end 1968 Topps cards, especially rookies, have skyrocketed in recent years. The sheer number of future Hall of Famers and stars featured makes it one of the most iconic vintage sets. Complete original runs still sealed in wax wrappers can sell for well over $10,000. Individual key cards like the Nate Oliver or Thurman Munson rookies have 6-figure valuations in top grades.

Legacy of the Set – Now over 50 years old, the 1968 Topps baseball card set remains a cornerstone of the vintage collecting hobby. Its classic design, amazing rookie class, and historical significance as a window into 1960s baseball ensure it stays a blueprint for what makes a great vintage issue. Whether being flipped through for nostalgia or prized as an investment, the 1968s maintain a hallowed place in the hearts of collectors.

The 1968 Topps baseball card set was a true high water mark that featured some of the best rookies and players in the game. Even after five decades, it continues to captivate collectors with its memorable photos, impressive checklists of future Hall of Famers, and elusive variations. Prices remain high but interest has never been greater for this true vintage icon of the hobby.