The 2021 Topps Heritage baseball card set was another highly anticipated release from Topps that paid homage to the classic design aesthetics of the 1960s and 1970s. While not quite as large in size as some of the mega sets released in recent years, Heritage is always a fan favorite known for its retro styling and quality cardboard. With a base set of only 66 cards and various parallels and short prints inserted throughout, collectors had to be diligent to complete the set. The chase for the top rookie and star cards made Heritage a must-have for both casual and invested collectors. Here are some of the standout cards and versions from the 2021 Topps Heritage baseball release:
Wander Franco Rated Rookie Auto Green Parallel (#66) – As one of the most hyped prospects in recent memory, Wander Franco’s rookie cards were in high demand all year. His Heritage rated rookie autograph parallel in green bordered on the shortprinted side and carried a premium due to his status as the future star of the Tampa Bay Rays franchise. PSA 10 examples of this parallel regularly sold for well over $1000.
Ronald Acuña Jr. Green Parallel (#1) – Acuña was coming off an MVP-caliber 2020 season and remains one of the most exciting players in the game. His Heritage card donned the coveted #1 position and the green parallel added to its appeal. This served as a centerpiece card for many Acuña PC collectors.
Fernando Tatis Jr. Gold Parallel (#66) – Arguably the biggest star in the game today, Tatis’ rising star power was reflected in strong demand for his Heritage parallel versions. The gold parallel /66 bordered on the rare side and showcased his flashy style on one of the best designs around. PSA 10 golds sold for $500-600 consistently.
Mookie Betts Red Parallel (#15) – As one of the premier five-tool talents in MLB, Mookie Betts always seems to land some of the best cardboard. His red parallel was limited to only 15 copies making it one of the true short prints of the set. For Betts superfans, this served as an attainable hit at a fraction of the cost of some of his ultra-rare parallels from years past.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Blue Parallel (#27) – “Vladdy Jr.” was coming into his own as one of the game’s most feared sluggers in 2021. His Heritage blue parallel at /27 was highly sought after and showed his smooth left-handed swing. Graded Gem Mint 10 examples sold for $300-400 throughout the year.
Juan Soto Green Parallel (#22) – Soto has ascended into the upper echelon of MLB superstars at just 23 years old. His Heritage green parallel was limited to only 22 copies, accentuating his star power. This served as a must-have for collectors of the young Nationals outfielder.
Bo Bichette Gold Parallel (#66) – As the star shortstop for the up-and-coming Blue Jays, Bichette was a hot commodity for Toronto collectors. His Heritage gold parallel highlighted his flashy defense and elite hitting ability. This parallel held steady value throughout the year.
Yordan Alvarez Gold Parallel (#66) – Coming off an AL Rookie of the Year campaign in 2019, Alvarez was looking to cement his status as one of baseball’s most feared lefty sluggers. His Heritage gold parallel captured his sweet left-handed swing and was highly sought after.
Shane Bieber Gold Parallel (#66) – The 2020 AL Cy Young winner, Bieber had a breakout season that year. His Heritage gold parallel honored that achievement and recognition as one of the game’s best pitchers. It was a must for Bieber PC collectors.
Freddie Freeman Gold Parallel (#66) – A perennial MVP candidate and the heart and soul of the Atlanta Braves, Freeman is beloved in the baseball community. His Heritage gold parallel showed why he’s so respected across the league and was a strong seller.
Nolan Arenado Gold Parallel (#66) – One of the premier power hitters and gloves in the game, Arenado has been a cornerstone of Colorado Rockies teams for many years. His smooth left-handed swing translated beautifully to his Heritage gold parallel card.
In addition to the star rookies and parallels, Heritage also included various inserts like Heritage High Numbers, All-Time Fan Favorites, and Returning Greats. Short prints like Bo Bichette’s Heritage High Numbers card were hot commodities. The 2021 Topps Heritage release was another home run that satisfied collectors’ craving for classic designs paired with today’s top talents. While the base cards didn’t carry huge premiums, the short printed parallels of stars like Tatis Jr., Acuña Jr. and Guerrero Jr. stole the show as true high-end hits.
