One of the most common crossword puzzle clues related to baseball cards is “big name in baseball cards”. This refers to a legendary company that has produced thousands of iconic baseball cards over the decades – Topps.
Founded in 1938 in Brooklyn, New York by The Topps Chewing Gum Company, Topps is widely considered the most famous and successful brand in the baseball card industry. They were the dominant force in baseball cards from the 1950s all the way through the 1980s before facing more competition. However, Topps remains the top dog to this day and is still seen as the gold standard when it comes to collectible baseball cards.
Some key details on Topps’ history and significance in the baseball card world:
In 1951, Topps secured the exclusive rights to produce cards featuring active Major League Baseball players, which was a huge coup. This monopoly allowed them to dominate the market for decades.
Iconic sets produced by Topps over the years include their 1952, 1954, 1956, and 1957 issues. The 1952 Topps set is arguably the most valuable collection of baseball cards ever made due to the stars featured like Mickey Mantle and Jackie Robinson.
Topps had exclusive rights to MLB players until 1981 when Donruss and Fleer entered the scene. This ended Topps’ monopoly and ushered in the modern era of baseball cards with multiple competing brands.
Some of the most coveted rookie cards of all-time came from Topps, such as Mantle’s 1952, Ken Griffey Jr.’s 1989, Chipper Jones’ 1991, and Derek Jeter’s 1993 issues. Collectors are always on the hunt for these seminal rookie cards.
Beyond standard baseball cards, Topps pioneered innovations like oddball sets featuring specific teams, leagues, or themes. Examples include their Negro League tribute sets, Traded sets, and special anniversary issues.
In addition to standard size cards, Topps also produced larger premium cards over the years. Examples include their high-number issues from the 1960s and prestigious Tiffany collection releases in the 1980s and 1990s.
The company’s iconic design aesthetic and logos have remained consistent for decades. Topps’ distinct font, borders, and red wrapper are immediately recognizable to collectors of all ages.
Even after facing more competition, Topps has maintained around 60-70% market share in the baseball card industry. Their popularity and name recognition is unmatched among the major brands.
In addition to baseball cards, Topps branched out over the years to produce cards for other sports like football and hockey. Their primary focus has always been on capturing the nostalgia and history of America’s pastime.
In 2007, The Topps Company was purchased by The Upper Deck Company for $385 million. However, Topps maintains its branding and identity as a leader in the collectibles industry.
Today, Topps remains the most visible brand at major card shows, in hobby shops, and has a large online presence. They continue to release popular annual sets that drive the market and honor the game.
Whenever you see the clue “big name in baseball cards” in a crossword or word puzzle, the unmistakable answer is Topps. For over 80 years, Topps has towered over the industry thanks to iconic designs, exclusive licenses, and an unmatched ability to capture the nostalgia of America’s favorite pastime one baseball card at a time. Topps’ dominance has cemented its status as a household name for collectors and puzzle solvers alike seeking to fill in that crossword answer.
