Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

1993 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS MOST VALUABLE

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The 1993 Leaf baseball card set was unique in that it was the final baseball card set released by the Leaf trading card company before they ceased baseball card production. With Leaf departing the baseball card scene, the 1993 set took on greater significance for completionists and collectors. While not one of the larger issues of the early 1990s, the 1993 Leaf set nonetheless contained several highly valuable rookie and star player cards that have increased markedly in value over the years.

One of the most prominent rookies featured in the 1993 Leaf set was Derek Jeter of the New York Yankees. As one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history and a career-long Yankee, Jeter’s rookie card from the ’93 Leaf set is among the jewels of the vintage card world. Near mint to mint condition Jeter rookies in this set now command prices up to $15,000. What makes his card so desirable is not just Jeter’s legendary playing career spanning 5 World Series titles with New York, but also the rarity of high grade examples remaining in collectors’ hands decades after the set’s release. Few pristine Jeter rookies exist, fueling intense bidding wars whenever one crosses an auction block.

Another rookie card star of the 1993 Leaf set is Jim Thome. Thome socked 612 career home runs over a 22-year MLB career, and remains a fan favorite in Cleveland where he spent the bulk of his playing days. Thome’s impressive power numbers and consistency have made his ’93 Leaf RC highly collectible. In top condition his card now appreciates up to $2,000, but more common well-centered near mint copies can be acquired for $400-600. While not in Jeter’s stratosphere, a pristine Thome rookie is still a prized vintage find.

Perhaps the single most valuable regular issue card (non-hit, non-error variety) from the 1993 Leaf set belongs to Ken Griffey Jr. Arguably the most talented five-tool player of the 1990s, Griffey was a generational superstar for the Seattle Mariners and Cincinnati Reds in his prime. His charming boyish grin and effortless skills made him a poster boy for the sport. In near mint to mint condition, Griffey’s base rookie now appraises between $3,000-5,000. Few exemplars exist in that lofty state of preservation after nearly 30 years of being ogled and admired in collections. Even lightly played copies trade hands for $1,000 or more due to Griffey’s legend status.

Other notable rookies and stars featured in the 1993 Leaf issue that have gained collector attention over the years include Frank Thomas, Barry Larkin, Ivan Rodriguez, Craig Biggio, Jeff Bagwell, Moises Alou, John Smoltz, and Bobby Bonilla among others. While none have achieved the value heights of Jeter, Thome or Griffey, these players all enjoyed long, accomplished MLB tenures that sustained interest in their early baseball cards. Near mint copies of star rookies like Thomas, Larkin or Pudge routinely sell for $200-400.

In addition to sparkling rookie cards, the 1993 Leaf set contains several scarce and valuable insert subsets that entice advanced collectors. Among these are the 13-card “ProSphere” parallel subset featuring 3D lenticular images on each card front. Highly sought after parallels like the Griffey and Bonds ProSpheres command $300-700 depending on condition. Another rarity is the “Double Diamond Parallels” 3-card insert featuring John Smoltz, Mark McGwire and Jeff Bagwell. Just 30 of each were produced, making them an impossible find for most collectors.grading a strong 9, a Smoltz Double Diamond recently brought in an astounding $3,750 at auction.

While several factors influence the value of any given vintage card, including player performance, scarcity and state of preservation, it’s clear that nearly 30 years after its release the 1993 Leaf baseball set still harbors many tremendously valuable collectibles. Rookie cards of eventual Hall of Famers like Jeter, Griffey and Thomas will always be prized, while rare parallel subsets continue enticing advanced collectors. For completeness in one’s vintage leaf collection or simply to acquire classic cardboard of baseball icons, digging through the bins of ’93 Leaf offers opportunity. With its rich rookies, stars and inserts, this underrated vintage issue remains a bountiful set for finding buried treasure.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1986 VALUE

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The 1986 Topps Baseball card set is one of the most highly valued issues from the golden era of the 1980s. With 792 total cards issued, the ’86 Topps set featured many of the game’s biggest stars from that period and remains a hugely popular vintage collection for investors and collectors alike. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top cards from the ’86 set and what they can fetch on the current market.

One of the headlining rookies from the ’86 Topps set is Ryne Sandberg of the Chicago Cubs. As one of the premier second basemen of his generation, Sandberg was already emerging as a star by 1986 and his rookie card is tremendously sought after by collectors today. In top graded gem mint condition, a PSA 10 Sandberg ’86 rookie will pull in well over $1,000. Even high-grade near-mint copies in the PSA 8-9 range can sell for $200-500. For a key rookie of such an impactful player, Sandberg’s ’86 Topps card remains a blue chip investment even decades later.

Another elite rookie from the set is Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox. As one of the most dominant pitchers ever, Clemens’ early cards hold incredible value. Like Sandberg, Clemens’ ’86 Topps rookie is immensely popular. PSA 10 examples can sell for $2,000-3,000 while PSA 9 copies still pull in around $500-1000. Even in lower graded condition, there is strong demand that keeps Clemens’ prices elevated compared to most other players from the ’86 set.

For star veterans, few can top the marketability of Mike Schmidt’s ’86 Topps issue. As a perennial MVP and one of the finest third basemen in baseball history as a Philadelphia Phillie, Schmidt’s cards are highly collectible. Even in lower grades like PSA 8, Schmidt’s ‘86 can sell between $150-250. Higher grades like PSA 9 will command $300-500 while a PSA 10 example could bring over $1,000. Schmidt wasn’t too far removed from his prime years, making his ’86 one of the most coveted veteran cards from the set.

Another superstar third baseman, George Brett of the Kansas City Royals, also has an extremely valuable ’86 Topps card. Like Schmidt, Brett was a career .300 hitter and still near the height of his powers in 1986. His iconic mustache and talent make Brett issues highly sought after. A PSA 10 of Brett’s ’86 Topps sells for $500-800 while PSA 9s average $150-300 on the secondary market. Even relatively low PSA 8 copies routinely sell in the $75-150 range showing Brett’s enduring popularity.

On the pitching side, Nolan Ryan held immense star power and his ’86 Topps card reflects that status. As one of the game’s all-time greats with over 5,000 career strikeouts, Ryan was a premier attraction wherever he played. A PSA 10 copy of his ’86 sells for $400-600. High grade PSA 9s go for $150-300 while even well-worn PSA 8 versions can still sell above $50. Few hurlers carried the longterm collectibility of Nolan Ryan, cementing his ’86 as a sought after vintage issue.

While rookies and stars dominate discussion, there are also hidden gems to be found throughout the ’86 Topps set. Players like Willie Randolph and Darryl Strawberry, both valuable pieces of the mid-80s Mets championship teams, have PSA 10 cards selling above $150 in today’s market. Even role players like Bob Dernier and Ted Simmons, key contributors for their respective clubs, have mint 10 cards that command over $100 due to strong team/league affiliations. For investors willing to do research, overlooked commons from iconic teams and seasons could pay dividends down the road.

The 1986 Topps Baseball set maintains tremendous value, especially for its elite rookie cards of future Hall of Famers and iconic veteran issues of stars still in their prime. While the flagships like Sandberg, Clemens, Schmidt and Brett set the price ceiling, savvy collectors realize values can also be found throughout the set for impactful teams and players. When combined with the nostalgia of the peak 1980s card era, ’86 Topps feels like a virtually recession-proof part of the vintage card market. With nearly 800 total issues to hunt, there is definitely no shortage of affordable cards with longterm potential in this treasured series.

1991 BOWMAN BASEBALL CARDS PRICE GUIDE

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The 1991 Bowman baseball card set was the 27th edition of the iconic Bowman set released by Topps. It marked several notable firsts and featured many future Hall of Famers during what is considered the peak of the baseball card boom era in the early 1990s. Understanding values and demand for specific 1991 Bowman cards can help collectors price their collections appropriately.

The 1991 Bowman set consisted of 396 total cards including 385 base cards and 11 trader/star cards inserts. It was the first Bowman set to feature rookie cards of future stars such as Andy Pettitte, Mike Piazza, and Chipper Jones. Pettitte’s rookie would go on to become one of the key rookie cards from the 90s while Piazza and Jones are both considered future Hall of Famers making their ’91 Bowman rookies among the most coveted. The sheer number of future stars that debuted in this set drove collector interest and card prices sky high.

Some other key rookie cards in the 1991 Bowman set included Bobby Bonilla, David Justice, Tim Salmon, Frank Thomas, Kenny Lofton, and Mark McGwire. While not true rookies, the set also featured cards for Barry Larkin, Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith. Cal Ripken’s streak of playing in 2,632 consecutive games was well underway making him one of the biggest stars in baseball at the time and his ’91 Bowman card extremely popular. The set captured some of the biggest names in the sport during the early 90s.

In gem mint condition, the Chipper Jones, Mike Piazza, and Andy Pettitte rookie cards routinely fetch hundreds of dollars today and sometimes even over $1,000 for the highest graded specimens. Even in lower grades of Near Mint-Mint (NM-MT) condition, these rookies still sell for $50-150. The 1991 Bowman Frank Thomas rookie has also gained popularity in recent years due to his Hall of Fame career and currently sells for $75-350 depending on condition. David Justice and Kenny Lofton rookie cards settle in the $15-75 range across all conditions.

In addition to the star rookies, key veteran cards that maintain solid prices include Cal Ripken Jr. ($8-40), Barry Larkin ($5-20), Wade Boggs ($5-15) and Ozzie Smith ($3-15). Mark McGwire has seen resurgences in collecting interest each time he nears or passes a career milestone so his ’91 Bowman floats around $3-15 as well. The rest of the base rookie cards such as Bobby Bonilla and Tim Salmon trade for under $10 on average.

When it comes to grading, 1991 Bowman cards benefited from a smaller initial print run compared to later 90s sets as the hobby began to take off commercially. As a result, high-grade copies of the expensive keys are quite rare to come across. A PSA Gem Mint 10 1991 Chipper Jones rookie recently sold for over $6,000 on eBay in August 2019 setting a new record. Piazza and Pettitte rookies in a BGS or PSA 10 grade typically sell in the $1,000-3,000 range. Even NM-MT 9 graded cards can pull in hundreds for these scarce prospects.

The 1991 Bowman set also featured “Trader” inserts highlighting established stars like Dwight Gooden, Nolan Ryan, and Kirby Puckett that added to the excitement of the product but don’t carry significant individual value today. The entire set in Near Mint to Mint condition would be worth $50-100 to a dedicated collector depending on specific card conditions and player rosters. But long-term, the rookie class of ’91 promises more growth potential for elite investments like Piazza or Jones.

For accurate estimated values of specific 1991 Bowman cards, the best approach is to research recent eBay sales data across various grades. Prices depend heavily on condition so be sure graded examples are properly encapsulated to assure authenticity and protect resale value. Strong vintage Bowman sets still appeal to collectors decades later due to iconic brands, superstar content and the nostalgia players feel toward their youth. For investors and fans of ’90s cards, 1991 is one of the most definitive years.

2023 TOPPS SERIES 1 BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 2023 Topps Series 1 Baseball card set is one of the most anticipated releases each year. As the flagship set from Topps, Series 1 kicks off the new season with cards featuring every MLB player. While retail value for most base cards is minimal, there are always rookies, stars, and parallels that hold greater value. Let’s take an in-depth look at what collectors can expect from the 2023 Topps Series 1 release and which cards may have the most value long-term.

To start, Topps Series 1 will feature base cards for every player on a MLB opening day roster as well as any notable prospects or veterans in the minors. For the 2023 set, that means over 700 total cards. The vast majority of these base cards can be found for $0.25-0.50 each. While collectors enjoy completing the set, the base rookies, stars, and parallels hold the true long-term value.

Each year, the top rookie cards generate the most buzz. In 2023, the rookies to watch include Druw Jones (ATL), Termarr Johnson (PIT), and Jackson Holliday (BAL). If any of these players emerge as the next big star, their rookie cards could gain significant value in the coming years. Predicting future success is impossible. Other top prospects like Emerson Hancock (SEA) and Gunnar Henderson (BAL) also have rookie cards to watch.

Beyond rookies, the biggest MLB stars always have the most valuable base cards. In the 2023 set, look for cards of superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Juan Soto, Ronald Acuna Jr., and Mike Trout to hold steady value due to their widespread popularity and production on the field. Top players entering their prime like Wander Franco, Bobby Witt Jr., and Julio Rodriguez also have cards to watch long-term.

When it comes to parallels and short prints, there are always a few that stand out. Topps Series 1 features several parallel sets including Gold (#/2021), Silver Pack (#/70), Rainbow Foil (1/1), and Black Border SPs. The Gold cards for star players regularly sell in the $20-50 range. Rainbow Foil 1/1s can reach into the hundreds, with the best players going for $1000+ if the player breaks out. Short prints tend to settle around $5-15 based on the player but top SPs may fetch over $100.

Autograph and memorabilia cards provide the highest pre-release hype, but predicting which will have lasting value is difficult. Topps typically includes three autograph sets – Topps Autograph, Topps Chrome Autograph, and Topps High Tek Autograph. Rated rookies and star veterans dominate the value, with popular names reaching $100-1000+ based on the parallel. Rare 1/1 autographs of Ohtani or Trout could sell for thousands. Patch and relic cards follow similar trends based on player and parallel, with 1/1 patches being the true big hit cards.

When looking long-term, the cards that age the best are often those attached to career success on the field. Players who become perennial All-Stars and award winners see their rookie cards gain the most value years after the fact. A good example is Juan Soto, who has emerged as a true superstar – his 2018 Topps Series 1 rookie card has skyrocketed from a $20 card to over $1000 PSA 10 today. On the flip side, cards for bust prospects or injury prone players hold very little long term value.

While the 2023 Topps Series 1 set will contain over 700 base cards, it’s the rookies, stars and short prints that have the potential to be worthwhile investments. The best cards to target for long term value are the top rookie cards of Druw Jones, Jackson Holliday and others who pan out, parallels of proven stars like Ohtani and Trout, and any rare 1/1 hits. Completing the base set is very affordable but don’t expect much return. With patience, the right parallels or rookies from this year’s Series 1 could gain thousands in value over the next decade.

TOPPS CHROME BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE

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Topps Chrome is an insert set release annually by Topps as part of their standard baseball card release. What sets Topps Chrome cards apart from the base set is their slick “chrome” finish on each and every card. This chrome finish gives the cards a foil-like look that really makes the photos and graphics pop. For collectors and those looking to purchase baseball cards, Topps Chrome has become one of the most popular and valuable insert sets available each year.

Topps Chrome began in 1999 as a parallel set to the standard Topps Flagship release. Since then, it has evolved into its own highly anticipated release, usually coming out in late summer after the regular base set has been on shelves for a few months. The cards feature current major and minor league players from that season. Rookies, stars, and talented prospects can all be found across the various parallels and inserts within each year’s Topps Chrome set. Over the past two decades, some of the biggest rookie cards have come from Topps Chrome, like Mike Trout’s debut in 2012 and Ronald Acuña Jr’s arrival in 2018.

Collectors value Topps Chrome for its photo-quality images and the eye-catching foil elements. Whereas normal cardboard baseball cards may seem flat at times, the foil on Topps Chrome makes the layers pop off the surface. This eye-catching aspect helps make the cards feel premium and high-end compared to basic paper stock. It also protects the images beneath better than normal wrappers. The protective coating of foil means the photos are less likely to fade, chip, or peel over time compared to typical issues. This superior protection maintains the long-term collectability and value potential for worthy rookie cards and stars found in Topps Chrome each season.

When searching for Topps Chrome baseball cards for sale, there are a few key things to note about the various parallels and print runs within each year’s release:

Base Chrome – These are the standard refractors found in wax packs, blasters, and hobby boxes. They have the lowest print runs of all parallels, making base Chrome cards the most desired for serious collectors.

Chrome Refractors – A step up from the base, these shinier refractors can feature brighter colors and tend to be short printed. Considered the creme de la creme for many collectors.

Negative Refractors – A “negative” photo variant that is inverted in color. Even rarer than regular refractors.

Blue Refractors – Similar to regular refractors but with a blue tint. Medium print runs.

Green Refractors – Same but with a green hue. More obtainable than other colors but still coveted.

Superfractors – Extremely short printed 1/1 parallel available only through redemptions. Trophy cards for true high-end collectors.

Inserts – Topps Chrome is also known for popular parallels like Silver Pack Parallels, Genesis, and Special Edition Refractors that showcase different photo treatments. Can be very valuable depending on the player.

When buying individual Topps Chrome cards for sale, high-grade refractors of big stars naturally carry the highest prices. But it’s also common to find budget friendly parallels of promising rookies or prospects in lower grades. As for boxes of sealed product, Topps Chrome hobby boxes from the last 5-7 years tend to retail between $150-300 unopened depending on the year and availability. Sealed wax packs can also be acquired for about $5-10 each online.

Whether chasing specific big name cards or just enjoying the thrill of the hunt, Topps Chrome has become synonymous with high- quality, photo-modern baseball cards over the past two decades. Its popularity is demonstrated by the prices vintage Topps Chrome regularly commands on auction sites. For collectors seeking a prime example of the pinnacle of modern baseball card design and aesthetics, Topps Chrome continues to be the top choice year after year. Those looking to add some of these slick refractors to their collections would be wise to keep an eye out for reasonably priced individual cards as well as sealed product when available from trusted online sellers.

MOST VALUABLE 1990 BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1990 baseball card season produced some of the most iconic and valuable cards in the hobby’s history. Several rookies from the late 80s and early 90s made their debuts on cardboard in 1990, while established stars like Ken Griffey Jr. and Barry Bonds appeared in designs that would become highly sought after in the decades since. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1990 baseball cards on the market today according to PSA and Beckett population reports and recent auction prices.

Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck #1 RC (Rookie Card): Widely considered the most iconic baseball card of all-time, the Ken Griffey Jr. Upper Deck rookie is the undisputed king of the 1990s. With its vivid photo and groundbreaking Upper Deck design, this card set the standard for modern rookie cards. High grade PSA 10 versions routinely sell for $10,000+ today. Even well-centered PSA 9s can fetch $3,000. Griffey’s dominant play and popularity as “The Kid” ensured this would become the most valuable 1990s card.

Frank Thomas Stadium Club Gold #46 RC: While not quite as popular as Griffey, Frank Thomas established himself as one of the decade’s best hitters. His gold-bordered Stadium Club rookie is one of the most visually striking cards from 1990. PSA 10s have sold for $6,000, with PSA 9s bringing around $2,000. Condition is harshly graded on these, making high grades very difficult to attain.

Alex Rodriguez Bowman’s Best #73 RC: A-Rod burst onto the scene in Seattle and was touted as a future superstar from the start. His colorful Bowman’s Best design is iconic of the early 90s. PSA 10s have topped $5,000 at auction when elite examples emerge. Most PSA 9s will reach $2,000-3,000.

Roberto Alomar Score #73 RC: As a second year player, Alomar was already establishing himself as a perennial All-Star. His 1989 Score rookie takes on greater prominence since it was among the final issues before Score’s untimely demise. PSA 10s have reached $3,500, with most PSA 9s settling in the $1,000-1,500 range.

Jim Abbott Score #640: Abbott’s inspirational career overcoming the loss of his right hand at birth made his rookie one of the most feel-good stories of the late 80s/early 90s. PSA 10s have sold for $3,000 in the past few years, with PSA 9s around $1,000. Condition sensitivity limits populating the true gem state.

Barry Larkin Score #660: Larkin emerged as a superstar shortstop in Cincinnati and his 1990 Score issue gained notoriety as one of the set’s main “hits.” High grade PSA 10s have reached $2,500, with most PSA 9s in the $800-1,200 range based on recent eBay sales.

Ken Griffey Jr. Fleer #161: While not his true rookie card, Griffey’s second year Fleer issue is equally iconic from the set. Its nostalgic design remains highly sought after by Fleer collectors. PSA 10s have brought over $2,000, with PSA 9s commonly around $800.

Roberto Alomar Fleer #162: As one of the stars of the “Fleer Funny Guys” subset, Alomar’s card became an iconic encapsulation of the bushy browed second baseman’s personality. PSA 10s have reached $1,800, with most PSA 9s in the $600-900 range.

Don Mattingly Topps #126: Coming off his ’89 AL MVP campaign and still in the prime of his Yankee career, Mattingly’s 1986 Topps Traded appearance was a true superstar issue of its day. PSA 10s have recently sold for $1,500, with PSA 9s averaging around $600-800.

Kirk Gibson Fleer Update #U-21: One of the set’s main “hits,” Gibson’s card memorializes his legendary 1988 World Series Game 1 home run. PSA 10s have gone for over $1,300 recently, with most PSA 9s around $500. Condition challenges keep the truly pristine away.

The 1990 season was a high water mark of designs, rookie debuts, and future Hall of Famers that still resonate strongly among collectors today. While Griffey and Thomas rookies remain universally coveted, other stars like Alomar, Larkin, and Gibson offer alternative targets. Considering the vintage, condition sensitivity, and rarity of true high grades – these 1990s stand among the most valuable baseball cards money can buy.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 1983 COMPLETE SET

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The 1983 Topps baseball card set was the 62nd series issued by Topps and featured 660 total cards. Some key things to know about the 1983 Topps complete set include:

Set Details:

The set featured 660 total cards consisting of 518 regular season player and manager cards, 80 traded player cards, 58 rookie cards, and 4 team cards.
The cards featured a photo on the front and player stats and career highlights on the back.
The design featured a darker border around the edge of the card compared to previous years.
The team logo was printed in the lower left corner of the front of each card.
The copyright and set numbering was located at the bottom center of the front.
Rated among the easier Topps sets to complete from this era due to the large number of cards issued.

Rookie Cards:

The 1983 set featured rookie cards for some all-time great players including Cal Ripken Jr., Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens, Rickey Henderson, and Dwight Gooden.
Ripken’s rookie card is one of the most iconic and valuable of all time due to his Iron Man streak and Hall of Fame career. PSA 10 versions of his card have sold for over $100,000.
Gooden’s rookie is also highly coveted due to his dominance as a rookie in 1985 when he won Rookie of the Year and the NL Cy Young Award.
Other notable rookies included Darryl Strawberry, Ozzie Smith, Tim Raines, and Kirby Puckett.

Traded and Update Cards:

There were 80 traded player update cards issued to reflect player transactions after the initial set was released.
Notable traded cards included Dave Kingman going from the Mets to the Athletics, Goose Gossage moving from the Yankees to the Padres, and Steve Sax shifting from the Dodgers to the Yankees.
The traded cards added to the challenge of completing the full 660 card set.

Design and Photography:

Like many 1970s and early 1980s Topps sets, the photos and graphical design were somewhat basic compared to modern standards.
Many photos looked stiff and generic with players posing front facing in uniform without any game action shots.
Some photos appeared blurred or low quality even by the standards of the era.
The primarily yellow, black, and white color scheme helped the cards to hold up visually over time compared to brighter colored sets.

Notable Cards:

The Reggie Jackson card featured one of his more iconic product endorsement photos where he holds a baseball bat in one hand and can of Coke in the other.
The Nolan Ryan card showed him winding up to throw which highlighted his blazing fastball.
Cal Ripken Jr.’s rookie card stood out for showcasing his smooth skilled defensive play at shortstop for the Orioles.
The Rod Carew card from his time with the Twins depicted him in his elegant lefty batting stance.
The Pete Rose and Don Sutton Manager cards were unusual since they depicted players transitioning to become skippers.

Condition and Grading:

Most 1983 Topps cards that have survived to today are found in well-worn condition due to heavy circulation during the 1980s.
Mint condition examples suitable for professional grading are relatively rare, though not quite as scarce as the super high-grade vintage cards from the 1950s-1970s.
Gradeable rookie cards for Ripken, Gooden, Boggs and other stars can still fetch hundreds or thousands in top grades like Mint or Gem Mint.
The set overall holds moderate value for collectors, with the complete 660 card roster selling for $500-1000+ depending on condition when assembly is desired.

While not one of the most visually striking baseball card designs, the 1983 Topps set remains a recognized classic for its iconic rookie cards, player photos, and commemoration of the early 1980s MLB season. Decades later, it endures as an achievable set for collectors alongside more renowned vintage releases due to strong production levels and enduring nostalgia for the era. Grading has become increasingly important to preserve condition for the highly regarded rookie cards now entering their fourth decade in collectors’ hands.

1989 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 70

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The 1989 Topps baseball card set included several young stars and fan favorites. Card number 70 featured Bobby Witt, a hard throwing right-handed starting pitcher for the Texas Rangers.

Witt was born in 1967 in San Diego, California. He grew up dreaming of becoming a big league baseball player. As a youth, Witt developed incredible arm strength and velocity with his fastball. He attended high school in San Diego and quickly rose to become one of the top prep pitching prospects in the country.

After graduating in 1985, Witt was selected first overall by the Rangers in the MLB draft. He had an electric fastball that could touch upper 90s mph with excellent movement. Witt rose quickly through the Rangers farm system showing dominance against minor league hitters.

By 1988, at just 20 years old, Witt was ready for his major league debut. He started the season with Texas and immediately displayed his overwhelming stuff. Witt struck out 115 batters in his rookie season while posting a 3.41 ERA over 26 starts and 145 innings pitched. His fastball blew hitters away as he racked up impressive strikeout totals.

However, Witt also battled some control issues in 1988. He walked 66 batters which was quite high for a young power pitcher. But the Rangers were thrilled with Witt’s rookie campaign as he showed all the potential of a future ace. Entering 1989, the team viewed Witt as their staff ace and the future of the franchise.

The 1989 Topps card captured Witt during his breakout sophomore season with Texas. The photo shows Witt mid-delivery, his powerful right arm cocked back ready to launch his fastball. He has a fierce competitive look on his face, eyes focused intently on the plate. The vibrant blue and orange Rangers uniform pops visually against the monochrome background.

On the stat line, Witt’s impressive rookie numbers are prominently displayed. It notes his 3.41 ERA and 145 innings pitched as he established himself as a workhorse starter as a rookie. The card provides a brief bio on Witt, mentioning he was the overall #1 pick out of high school by the Rangers just four years prior in 1985.

In 1989, Witt took his game to an even higher level. He lowered his ERA to 2.88 while increasing his innings pitched to 186 over 32 starts. Witt’s strikeout rate jumped up to an impressive 11.6 K/9 as he racked up 186 total strikeouts on the season. His blazing fastball reached even greater velocities which truly overwhelmed American League hitters.

Witt established himself as the staff ace for Texas, leading the Rangers in innings and strikeouts. He received strong consideration for the AL Cy Young Award and finished 9th in voting despite pitching for a last place Rangers team. Witt looked every bit the part of a future pitching superstar at just 22 years old entering 1990.

Tragically, Witt’s career and life were derailed just a month after the 1989 season concluded. On December 4th, 1989, Witt was involved in a serious motorcycle accident in Arlington, Texas where he lost control of the vehicle. He sustained serious injuries including damage to his kidneys leading to a nearly fatal bout with sepsis.

The seemingly-invincible pitcher who overpowered hitters with his electric stuff now faced doubts if he’d ever pitch again after the accident. Witt fought hard through multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehab process. He was finally able to return to the mound in 1993 but was no longer the same dominant pitcher. Multiple trips to the disabled list and inconsistency hampered the remainder of Witt’s career.

In retrospect, Bobby Witt’s 1989 Topps card captured him at the absolute peak and prime of his career before tragedy struck. That sophomore season established Witt as one of baseball’s most exciting young arms. He gave Rangers fans hope for the future. While injuries cut short his potential superstardom, Witt will always be remembered for showcasing incredible ability during the 1988-1989 seasons depicted on his Topps card.

BIG LEAGUE CHEWING GUM BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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Big League Chewing Gum was first introduced in the late 1970s as a novelty product designed to emulate the experience of chewing tobacco like major league baseball players. The gum came packaged in a flexible foil pouch designed to look like a tobacco pouch. To help promote the new gum product, the company included baseball cards in their gum packs that featured photos of current MLB players from that season.

While the gum and packaging were meant as a fun novelty, the inclusion of baseball cards helped Big League Chewing Gum gain mainstream popularity. Collecting sports cards had really taken off in the 1970s following the boom started by the iconic 1969 Topps baseball card set. Kids saw Big League Chewing Gum as an affordable way to build their baseball card collections with current stars while also enjoying a chewing gum novelty.

The first Big League Chewing Gum cards came in the 1978 and 1979 series. These early sets featured simpler designs with a single player photo on a basic cardboard stock card. Stars of the day like Reggie Jackson, Mike Schmidt, and Nolan Ryan appeared. While the designs were basic, these early Big League Chewing Gum cards are highly sought after by vintage baseball card collectors today due to their scarcity and status as some of the first ever licensed gum card issues. In near mint condition, a full set of the 1978 cards could sell for over $1,000. Individual key cards like a Reggie Jackson can reach $100 or more.

In the 1980s, Big League Chewing Gum truly hit its stride as the premier licensed baseball card to be found in packs of chewing gum. The sets grew larger each year and featured sharper color photography and more innovative card designs. Stats and career highlights were included on the backs. The gum company also started varying the size and shape of cards between issues, with oddball “traded” size cards and taller rack packs becoming a fun novelty. This helped kept the collecting experience fresh each new season.

One of the most iconic Big League Chewing Gum releases was the 1987 set. Featuring sharp horizontal card designs with a clean red, white, and blue color scheme, the ’87s became one of the most visually appealing gum card releases ever. Rated by collectors as one of the best overall designs, key cards from the ’87 Big League set like Roger Clemens, Wade Boggs, and Ozzie Smith can reach over $50 today in top condition. A full 1987 set in near mint could be valued around $500-600.

Through the late 1980s and early 1990s, Big League Chewing Gum continued to be a staple in the world of baseball cards. Sets grew to include over 400 cards featuring current players, managers, and even umpires. Parallel “traded” and “rack pack” inserts added to the chase. As the 1990s progressed, the sports card market began to collapse following overproduction in the late 80s. Gum sales also declined. By the mid-90s, Big League Chewing Gum cards were discontinued.

Their legacy and collecting popularity continued to grow. The early sets from the late 70s/early 80s are among the most valuable vintage issues. 1984, 1985, 1987, and 1991 are considered some of the most iconic designs that are highly sought after by collectors. In the modern market, a complete set from these peak Big League years can bring $1,000+ depending on condition. Key rookie cards also retain strong value.

An underrated but iconic Big League Chewing Gum release is the 1992 “Gum Busters” design, one of the final issues. Featuring horizontal “smashed gum” designs, these innovative cards captured the nostalgia of the product and are highly collectible today. Even late 80s/early 90s commons can reach $5-10 each.

While no longer produced, Big League Chewing Gum baseball cards remain a beloved niche in the wider world of sports collecting. Their fun, innovative designs captured the spirit of both baseball cards and chewing gum collectibles. For vintage collectors, a complete Big League Chewing Gum set is a true prize to find in preserved condition. Even in the modern market, key cards and designs continue to retain value as a unique slice of the vintage sports card boom era.

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MOST VALUABLE 1991 LEAF BASEBALL CARDS

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The 1991 Leaf baseball card set featured some of the biggest stars and rookies from that MLB season. While it didn’t have the same mainstream popularity as sets from Topps or Donruss, Leaf cards from the early 1990s have grown significantly in value amongst collectors in recent years. Several key rookie cards and short-printed variations make certain 1991 Leaf cards extremely valuable today.

One of the most coveted and expensive 1991 Leaf cards is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best player collections cards of all-time, Griffey’s iconic upper-deck rookie shot him striding towards center field. His smooth left-handed swing and effortless play in center field made him an instant fan favorite. While Griffey Jr. rookie cards from Donruss and Upper Deck that same year carry higher values, the Leaf version still commands big money. In high grades like PSA 9 or 10, Griffey’s 1991 Leaf RC routinely sells for $500-750. Lower graded copies in PSA 8 still trade hands for $200-300.

Another highly sought after rookie card from the 1991 Leaf set is Chipper Jones. As the #1 overall pick in the 1990 MLB Draft by the Atlanta Braves, Jones burst onto the scene in 1991 by being named NL Rookie of the Year. He would go on to have a Hall of Fame career primarily with the Braves, winning the World Series in 1995. Jones’ dazzling rookie season made his 1991 Leaf card a hot commodity. In gem mint condition it can sell for $400-500, with most PSA 9s going for $250-350. Even in lower grades like PSA 8, Chipper’s rookie Leaf still fetches $150-200.

Speaking of Atlanta Braves stars, another valuable 1991 Leaf card is the Tom Glavine rookie. The lefty starter won 305 career games and two Cy Young Awards over a dominant 22-year career. He was a key piece of those dominant Braves rotations in the 1990s that won the 1995 World Series. Glavine’s Leaf rookie isn’t as iconic as his Topps or Stadium Club versions. But for Braves collectors it remains a prized piece. PSA 10 examples can sell for $400-600, with 9s going for $250-350 and PSA 8s trading around $150-200.

Two big name short prints from the 1991 Leaf set that add huge value are the Frank Thomas and Mark McGwire cards. Only 100 copies of each were inserted randomly in packs that year. Both players would go on to have huge MLB careers launching mammoth home runs. In high grade, the Thomas SPP routinely sells for $1,000-1,500 in PSA 9-10 condition. The McGwire short print in top gem grades can exceed $2,000. Even in lower PSA 8 condition, these tough pulls still sell for $500-800 depending on the player pedigree.

Anothervaluable Leaf variation is the Barry Bonds ’92 Olympics’ card, which features a photo of him competing in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona. Only about 200 of these Bonds insert cards were produced. Finding high grade PSA 9-10 copies available for sale is extremely rare, with the last few selling for upwards of $3,000 when they hit the market. Even well-worn PSA 8 versions can still net $1,000-1,500 due to the incredibly low print run.

Outside of rookies and variations, completed career collectors also drive demand for stars’ base 1991 Leaf cards in top condition. For example, a PSA 10 of Nolan Ryan consistently sells in the $200-300 range. The Ryan card pictures him pitching for the Texas Rangers at age 43 during the final season of his Hall of Fame career. Other all-time greats like Ryne Sandberg, Kirby Puckett, and Roger Clemens in PSA 9-10 also trade hands in the $100-200 range.

While it didn’t receive the same initial fanfare as sets from Topps or Donruss in 1991, Leaf has developed quite a cult following amongst collectors today. Featuring iconic rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Griffey Jr., Chipper Jones, and Glavine plus tougher SPPs and inserts makes certain 1991 Leaf baseball cards very valuable investments in the hobby over 30 years later. For set completionists or star PC collectors, pristine examples of stars’ base cards also hold solid value and appreciation potential long-term.