Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

BUYING BASEBALL CARDS ON EBAY

Leave a reply

Buying baseball cards on eBay can be an exciting way to build your collection or find rare and valuable cards. It requires some knowledge to ensure you are making good purchases and not getting scammed. Here are some tips for buying baseball cards successfully on eBay.

When browsing listings, pay close attention to the title, description, and photos provided by the seller. These should clearly and accurately portray the exact item condition and included cards. Beware of vague or misleading listings. Stick to sellers who have good feedback ratings from past buyers. New and unknown sellers can be risky as you have no history to judge them by.

In the listing, look for details like the year, brand, and set of each card. Make sure the cards match what is described. Also check the condition of each card which is usually graded on a 1-10 scale. Near mint or mint condition cards from the 1970s or earlier will be quite valuable, while very worn or damaged cards hold little value. Be realistic about condition given the card’s age.

Inspect photos closely for any flaws, scratches, bends, stains or other imperfections on the front or back of each card. Ask sellers for additional photos if needed, especially of problem areas. Make sure photos match the condition description. Low quality or blurry photos could be hiding issues. You may want to ask questions in the eBay message system before bidding.

When bidding, consider using the “Best Offer” option to negotiate a mutually agreeable price lower than the current bid. This is especially useful for larger lots where condition varies. You can also make a “Buy It Now” offer for immediate purchase at a set price if available and fair. Be aware of shipping costs which can add $3-10 depending on package weight and speed.

Once you win an auction or purchase, check the seller’s feedback rating and comments from past buyers. Anything under 98% would be a red flag. Most issues can be resolved by communicating respectfully through eBay messages. If a problem arises, file an “Item Not as Described” claim within 30 days for a full refund including return shipping.

Upon receipt, carefully inspect all cards immediately and compare to the listing details. Note and report any discrepancies to the seller within 3 business days. Major condition issues or missing cards are grounds for returning the item at the seller’s expense. Minor flaws may still be worth keeping if the overall purchase meets your expectations. Leave timely feedback for the seller once all is resolved.

When storing and protecting your new baseball cards, consider acid-free archival pages, toploaders or magnetic holders to prevent damage from light, moisture or other environmental factors. Higher end vintage cards in mint condition could appreciate significantly in value over time, so proper preservation is key. Consider getting professionally graded cards authenticated to verify condition and increase their worth.

Selling your baseball cards can also be done through eBay, with photography and description skills learned from purchasing. Take clear, close-up photos showing all angles and surfaces. Provide accurate condition assessments along with any flaws. Give full card details and answer buyer questions to set realistic expectations. Offer competitive but fair starting bids and Buy It Now prices based on similar recently sold eBay listings.

Buying baseball cards on eBay takes some diligence but can be very rewarding when done right. Always thoroughly inspect listings for accuracy, ask questions up front, and know your rights as a buyer. Proper storage will help preserve your growing collection which could gain value over the years. With patience and careful consideration of condition, rarer finds can be acquired at fair prices through the eBay marketplace.

BASEBALL CARDS 1987 FLEER

Leave a reply

The 1987 Fleer baseball card set was the sixth series of cards produced by Fleer after they entered the baseball card market in 1981. The 1987 set marked several notable firsts and showcased rising young stars who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers.

Fleer produced 660 cards in the 1987 set. The design featured a white border around each card with the team logo in the upper left corner and the player’s name and position below. In the center was a color photo of the player in action. On the reverse, stats from the previous season were listed along with career highlights. Fleer continued its tradition of including rookie cards, stars of both past and present, and highlighting up and coming talent.

One of the most notable aspects of the 1987 Fleer set was that it featured the rookie cards of future Hall of Famers Ken Griffey Jr, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz. Griffey’s explosive talent was already evident as he smashed 16 home runs in just 56 games for the Seattle Mariners in 1986 after being drafted number one overall. His rookie card would go on to become one of the most iconic and valuable in the hobby. Glavine and Smoltz, teammates on the Atlanta Braves, also debuted in the majors in 1987 and their cards predicted they would become cornerstones of one of baseball’s greatest pitching rotations.

Another key first for Fleer in 1987 was the inclusion of Update and Highlights inserts. These additional cards featured stats and highlights from after the initial printing of the base set. This allowed Fleer to acknowledge and commemorate achievements and milestones that occurred late in the previous season. Update and Highlights inserts became a staple of Fleer sets going forward and added to the excitement of the product by giving collectors a chance to obtain cards for players’ best seasons.

Some other notable rookies in the 1987 Fleer set included future 300-game winner Greg Maddux, slugger Mark McGwire, and all-time hits leader Pete Rose’s son Pete Rose Jr. Stars of the day like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, Tony Gwynn, and Roger Clemens continued to be featured prominently after establishing themselves as elite talents. Veterans like Hank Aaron in his final season and Nolan Ryan approaching career milestones also received due recognition as all-time greats.

Beyond the players, another hallmark of the 1987 Fleer set was the inclusion of the first ever manager cards. Cards were produced to honor managers like Whitey Herzog, Sparky Anderson, and Dick Williams. This showed Fleer expanding its scope beyond just the on-field product to acknowledge the importance of leadership behind the scenes. Manager cards have remained a staple in sets ever since.

When it was released in 1987, the Fleer baseball card set retailed for $1 per pack with 11 cards inside. Due to the star power and rookie card attractions within, it achieved wide popularity among collectors. Today, in near mint condition, a complete 1987 Fleer set can sell for over $1,000. Key individual cards like Griffey’s rookie have been known to fetch over $10,000 in gem mint condition. The set is regarded as one of the most iconic of the 1980s and a high point in the Fleer brand’s storied baseball card history.

By highlighting future Hall of Famers, acknowledging achievements throughout the year, and continuing to pay tribute to stars new and old, the 1987 Fleer baseball card set showcased the past, present, and future of the game. Its innovative additions like Update/Highlights inserts and manager cards also set precedents that enriched the collecting experience. Above all, the 1987 Fleer set immortalized the early careers of legends like Griffey, Glavine, and Smoltz, cementing its place as one of the most memorable and valuable releases in the entire hobby.

BASEBALL CARDS BEGAN

Leave a reply

The Origins of Baseball Cards

The tradition of collecting baseball cards can be traced back to the late 19th century when cigarette and tobacco companies began including premiums, or small gifts, inside their packs and tins to entice customers. Some of the earliest known baseball cards date back to the late 1880s and were included by tobacco manufacturers as these premiums. While the exact origins are unknown, most historians credit the American Tobacco Company with releasing the first widely distributed set of baseball cards as part of their cigarette brand called Old Judge in 1886.

These early tobacco era cards were simply small printed lithographic images featuring individual baseball players that were inserted randomly into tobacco products. The cards did not have any statistics or biographical information about the players. They were meant more as a novelty item and advertising for the tobacco brands rather than a serious collectible. They caught on with both children and adults and helped popularize baseball card collecting as a hobby.

In the early 1890s, several other tobacco companies like Allen & Ginter and Goodwin & Company began producing and distributing their own series of baseball cards as premiums. These early tobacco era sets featured some of the biggest stars of the day like Cy Young, Honus Wagner, and Nap Lajoie. Production and distribution greatly expanded in the late 1890s and early 1900s with companies issuing complete sets on a regular annual basis.

Tobacco brands would hire photographers to take portrait photos of players which were then lithographed directly onto the thin cardboard stock used to make cigarettes. The cards measured about 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches, smaller than modern cards. Information printed on the fronts usually just included the player’s name and position. The backs remained blank. Distribution was still random within tobacco products so completing a full set could be challenging for collectors.

The tobacco era is considered the true beginning of organized baseball card collecting as we know it today. These early premium cards helped drive sales of cigarettes and served as effective advertising for both the tobacco brands and major league baseball itself. They also helped connect fans to their favorite players through these small collectible images at a time when many never had the chance to see games in person. By the early 1900s, tobacco companies were producing and distributing hundreds of different baseball cards each year featuring both major and minor league players.

The tobacco era lasted until the 1950s when health concerns over cigarettes led to stricter regulations and the decline of included premiums in tobacco products. But the hobby of baseball card collecting had already taken root. When the tobacco companies stopped, bubble gum manufacturer Topps seized the opportunity and released their first complete baseball card set in 1951 which became the new standard. Topps held the exclusive license for baseball cards until competitors like Fleer and Donruss entered the market in the 1980s. This ushered in the modern era of licensed, mass-produced baseball cards which continues to this day with companies like Upper Deck, Panini, and Leaf.

While the exact origins are unknown, most historians credit tobacco companies like American Tobacco, Allen & Ginter, and Goodwin & Company with first distributing baseball cards as premiums and novelties in the late 1880s. This helped popularize both baseball and the hobby of collecting cards featuring professional players. By the early 1900s, tobacco companies were regularly producing hundreds of different baseball cards each year, driving both fandom and the infant sport of professional baseball itself during the tobacco era. When health concerns later led tobacco companies to stop, Topps and others filled the void to bring about the modern baseball card collecting era we know today. The tradition began as a simple advertising novelty over 130 years ago but grew into a worldwide multi-billion dollar industry and beloved hobby for fans of all ages.

1995 SCORE BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

Leave a reply

The 1995 baseball card season marked 30 years since Topps had sole rights to produce MLB baseball cards. While not the most iconic year, 1995 cards do feature some highly valuable rookie cards and standout veteran players. Let’s take an in-depth look at some 1995 cards that could be worth money today.

One of the most famous 1995 rookie cards is Jason Giambi of the Oakland A’s. Giambi went on to have a stellar 20-year MLB career that included an MVP award in 2000. His 1995 Pinnacle and Topps rookie cards have gained value over the years. In near mint condition, the Giambi Pinnacle rookie fetches around $50-75, while the less common Topps rookie in the same condition can sell for $100-150. Both cards showcase Giambi’s promising debut season and are a solid long-term investment forastro collectors.

Staying in Oakland, the 1995 Topps rookie card of Mark McGuire is another noteworthy issue from that year. While McGuire was already established by 1995, collectors still covet any of his vintage rookie cards. In mint condition, his 1995 Topps RC routinely sells for $75-100. What makes this card more attractive than others is that it features McGuire in an A’s uniform during his record-setting home run years in Oakland. As one of baseball’s all-time great sluggers, McGuire rookies from any year hold value.

One of the strongest 1995 rookie cards belongs to Randy Johnson of the Seattle Mariners. ‘The Big Unit’ went on to win 5 Cy Young Awards and strike out over 4,800 batters during his Hall of Fame career. High-grade copies of his 1995 Fleer Ultra, Pinnacle, and Topps rookie cards command $100-150. The fewer produced Ultra RC has gained the most as Johnson’s legendary status has grown. Even in Excellent condition, this intimidating snapshot of the 6’10” lefty fetches at least $75. For franchise collectors, it’s a must-own.

Switching to veteran players, the 1995 Finest Refractor parallel card of Ken Griffey Jr. is a true blue-chip item. Only one per wax box, these refractors showcase Griffey’s effortless swing in vivid color. Receiving a grade of Gem Mint 10, Griffey’s 1995 Finest Refractor has sold for upwards of $2,000 due to its spectacular eye appeal and limited print run. Even well-kept raw copies in the 9-9.5 range sell for $400-800 based on high demand from Griffey collectors. It’s one of the most visually striking cards from the mid-1990s.

Another star player with valuable 1995 issues is Greg Maddux of the Atlanta Braves. Maddux won his third straight Cy Young that year while leading the Braves to a World Series title. His rare 1995 Leaf Series 2 jersey parallel card in mint condition has brought in over $500 at auction due to the attractive on-card relic swatch. Other key Maddux 1995s include his Topps Gold LabelParallel (#52), Pinnacle Batman parallel (#29),and Ultra Short Prints (#249,#251). These short printed parallel versions typically sell in the $75-150 range when graded Gem Mint.

Turning to star rookies who didn’t pan out, the 1995 SP AuthenticAndy Benes rookie auto /50is worth discussing. While Benes had a respectable 13-year career, his autos from 1995 are highly sought after by collectors today. Recently selling for $650 in BGS 9.5 condition, this exclusive parallel captured Benes’ promise as a young Cardinal pitcher. Other notable busts include the 1995 Upper Deck Collector’s Choice Chad Mottola jersey card (#127), which has sold for $200 in Gem Mint regardless of Mottola’s mediocre career. Cards with exciting game-used memorabilia always have potential.

The 1995 baseball card crop, while overshadowed by more dominant years, does feature several key rookie hits and parallel card gems worth owning. For investors betting on star potential realized, Randy Johnson, Greg Maddux and Ken Griffey Jr. remain blue-chip standouts of the decade. And bust collector favorites like Andy Benes and Chad Mottola demonstrate how a flashy memorabilia card can gain value independent of performance. Overall, 1995 showcased exciting young talent and innovative parallels still appreciated by collectors today.

BEST CARDS FROM 1988 DONRUSS BASEBALL

Leave a reply

The 1988 Donruss baseball card set was one of the most iconic issues of the late 1980s. While not the flashiest set of the time period in terms of design or photo selection, it featured some of the game’s biggest stars who would go on to have Hall of Fame careers. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout rookie and veteran cards from the 1988 Donruss set that have become highly valuable over the past 30+ years.

Perhaps the most sought-after card from the 1988 Donruss set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of if not the best rookie card of all-time, Griffey’s 1988 Donruss issue shows him swinging a bat with an intense focus. Jr. would go on to have a legendary 22-year career, smacking 630 home runs and winning 10 Gold Gloves while playing for the Mariners and Reds. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie card can fetch thousands of dollars today. Another hugely valuable rookie is the Tim Salmon issue. Though not as heralded a player as Griffey, Salmon had a fine career with the Angels and his rookie is one of the most difficult to find in high grade from 1988 Donruss.

In terms of veteran stars, few can top the Kirby Puckett card from the 1988 Donruss set. Puckett is depicted grinning ear-to-ear in his Twins uniform, capturing his infectious energy and joy for the game. He would go on to help Minneapolis win two World Series in the late 80s/early 90s while establishing himself as one of the best all-around players of his generation. High-grade Puckett cards in the $7-10 range today. Another Twin who appears is Kent Hrbek, who is shown determinedly digging in at the plate. Hrbek was a stalwart for Minnesota throughout the 1980s and his card remains popular.

Two other huge stars featured prominently in the 1988 Donruss set are Ozzie Smith and Tony Gwynn. The “Wizard of Oz” card depicts Smith making one of his signature backhanded plays for the Padres, showcasing his unparalleled defensive skills that would eventually earn him a spot in Cooperstown. Gwynn’s issue shows him striding confidently in the batter’s box, foreshadowing his eventual 8 Batting Titles. Both Smith and Gwynn put together Hall of Fame careers and their ’88 Donruss cards are always in high demand.

Moving to the American League, two future Hall of Famers and rivals who defined baseball in the late 80s/90s also have standout cards in the 1988 Donruss set. The Nolan Ryan card pictures “The Ryan Express” firing a 100 mph heater for the Astros, capturing the sheer velocity and intimidation he brought to the mound well into his 40s. Across the diamond is Roger Clemens’ Red Sox card, showing him windmill windup. Both Ryan and Clemens would pile up strikeouts and accolades for decades, making their ’88 Donruss issues quite collectible today.

A couple of other top AL stars in 1988 who received great cards were Wade Boggs for the Red Sox and Rickey Henderson of the A’s. Boggs is stoically crouched in the batter’s box, as he was one of the most consistent hitters of the 1980s. Meanwhile, Henderson’s card portrays him in motion running the bases, highlighting his unparalleled speed and base-stealing prowess. Both Boggs and Henderson were fixtures for their clubs throughout the late 80s and their Donruss cards hold value.

While not the flashiest design ever, the 1988 Donruss baseball card set featured young stars like Griffey Jr. and Salmon as well as veteran greats like Puckett, Gwynn, Smith, Ryan, Clemens, Boggs and Henderson. These players all went on to have Hall of Fame-caliber careers, making their rookie cards and veteran issues from the 1988 Donruss set highly sought after and valuable in the hobby today for collectors. The combination of star power, memorable photos and players’ eventual on-field success have cemented many 1988 Donruss cards as classics over three decades later.

VALUE OF 1981 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1981 Topps baseball card set holds significant nostalgia and value for collectors and investors. Issued during Don Mattingly’s rookie season with the New York Yankees and Nolan Ryan’s dominance with the Houston Astros, the 1981 Topps cards feature many iconic players and rookie stars from a pivotal era in baseball history.

This classic design has simple yet appealing graphics that make the cards instantly recognizable. The aesthetics hold up well almost 40 years later. Combined with the talented players featured, these nostalgia and design factors contribute to the ongoing demand and value held by the 1981 Topps set.

Another key aspect that impacts the worth of 1981 Topps cards is the fact that they were produced during the peak of the original baseball card boom era in the 1980s. Production numbers were high compared to modern sets, with the standard 1981 Topps checklist containing 792 cards. Demand was off the charts as well during this “golden age” of cardboard collecting.

While there is an ample supply of most common players from the ’81 set still in circulation today, the high interest from the era combined with the passage of time has given value to even relatively common vintage cards. For example, most unremarkable commons from the set in near mint to mint condition can fetch $1-5. More sought-after fan favorites may sell for $10-25.

The real monetary value is found in the scarce short prints and stars of the period. Two of the most valuable cards from the 1981 Topps set are #305 Nolan Ryan and #390 Don Mattingly rookie cards. Both are understandably in high demand due to the players’ iconic careers and status as two of the best players of the 1980s.

A pristine, gem mint condition Nolan Ryan #305 can sell for upwards of $2,000 today. Meanwhile, a mint Don Mattington rookie holds value of roughly $500-1000 depending on centering and quality. Other noteworthy expensive options include an unopened factory set selling for $600-800 and a complete team/manager set over $250.

Beyond just two stars, the full 1981 Topps set features numerous talented ballplayers either in their primes or starting their careers. Notable rookies like Fernando Valenzuela, Dave Righetti, Jeff Reardon, and Steve Sax all made their cardboard debuts here and have cards that appreciate in value. Veterans like Mike Schmidt, George Brett, and Steve Carlton anchor demand from fans of the era as well.

Condition is extremely important when determining the worth of any specific 1981 Topps card. Even top stars like Ryan and Mattingly drop precipitously in value with issues like creases, off-centering, or rounding. A faulty Nolan Ryan could be worth only $50 instead of thousands. Similarly, a worn Donny Baseball may cap at just $20-30 rather than hundreds.

Investors particularly regard the 1981 Topps set favorably as a vintage card property with strong appreciation potential. The continued interest around stars of the period combined with finite pops of key cards means solid long-term outlooks. Prices rise steadily year over year for elite examples across eBay and auction markets.

With more collectibles moving to digital platforms, physical 1981 Topps cards can also hold appeal as tangible pieces of baseball history. The stable values and potential capital gains make them an intriguing alternative asset for portfolios. This classic vintage release remains very relevant and holds great meaning as well as monetary worth almost forty years after initial distribution.

Despite high original print runs, the 1981 Topps baseball card set maintains substantial value driven by the top veterans and rookies featured from that era. Iconic cards like Nolan Ryan and Don Mattingly rookie command especially high premiums. Even common players gain value with age and condition. The nostalgia and historic significance ensure the set will remain a pillar of the collecting hobby and potentially lucrative investment for the foreseeable future.

BEST METS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

When it comes to collecting Mets baseball cards, there are certainly no shortage of amazing options to choose from given the franchise’s illustrious history that dates back to the early 1960s. In this in-depth article, we will explore some of the very best and most valuable Mets cards that any avid collector would love to have in their collection.

Let’s start with arguably the most iconic Mets card of all time – the 1969 Topps Tom Seaver rookie card. Seaver’s rookie is widely considered one of the true holy grails of the hobby given his Hall of Fame career and what he did for the Mets franchise. The condition of the card is paramount, as high-grade 1969 Topps cards of any player are exceedingly rare to come across in pristine condition due to the flimsiness of the cardboard stock used during that era. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Seaver rookie would command well into the six figure price range today. Even lower graded examples still fetch thousands due to the card’s legendary status.

Another all-time great Mets card is the 1973 Topps Johnny Bench, which features Mets ace Tom Seaver on the back. The photo of Seaver is one of the most striking baseball card images ever captured with his leg kick. High graded examples of this dual HOFer card can reach up to $10,000. The 1973 set overall is a fantastic one for Mets collectors, as it was the year of the “Ya Gotta Believe!” NL East championship. Other top Mets from that set include Jerry Koosman, Jon Matlack, and Bud Harrelson.

For those seeking cards of franchise legends from the 1980s championship teams, the 1986 Fleer Update set is a must. It was the first and only card made of the “best pitcher in the National League” Dwight Gooden during his record-setting 1985 Cy Young season. PSA 10 examples have cracked six figures. Also coveted are Darryl Strawberry’s rookie from 1983 Topps Traded and the iconic Keith Hernandez “stache” card from 1984 Topps. Both were instrumental cogs during the Mets’ second World Series title run.

Moving into the late 80s/early 90s, the 1988 Topps Darryl Strawberry is a highly acclaimed Mets card. It features one of the game’s purest swings in action during his offensive prime before personal issues took over. Graded versions regularly sell for $500-1000. From 1990, the Frank Viola “Blue Moon” card is a fan favorite for its unique photo and the left-hander’s lone All-Star season with New York. High grade examples can reach $150-300 range.

The late 90s Renaissance teams are represented by cards like the 1999 Upper Deck SP Authentic Mike Piazza autograph or rookie from 1992 Upper Deck. Piazza’s impact on reviving Mets baseball upon his arrival can’t be understated. The 1998 Topps Traded Edgardo Alfonzo is a standout as well for “Fonzie’s” pivotal role during that time. Both players were instrumental in the late 90s resurgence.

Flash forward to the late 2000s revival and some noteworthy Mets cards include David Wright’s rookie from 2003 Topps or the iconic 2006 Topps Jose Reyes “shoe shine” action shot marking his breakout All-Star campaign. For pitching, the 2008 Topps Johnny Podres Parallel Rainbow Foil Johan Santana marks one of the game’s best lefties at his absolute peak before injuries derailed his career. Both franchise cornerstones.

More recently, collectors seek cards like the 2015 Topps Update Jacob deGrom, capturing his dominant early years cementing himself as the staff ace. The 2016 Topps National League Rookie of the Year card of Steven Matz is another desirable modern Mets rookie. Both pitchers were integral to the resurgent 2015-2016 NL pennant winning teams.

With a history as rich as the Mets spanning several championship eras, there are countless amazing cards to discover across the decades that any collector would be thrilled to own. While the above covers many of the most acclaimed, the best Mets cards will always be subjective based on personal player preferences and memories of those unique players and teams throughout the years.

1989 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

The 1989 Topps baseball card set was released during what many consider to be the peak of the baseball card boom of the 1980s. Following the record-breaking sales of sets in the late ’80s, Topps upped the card count to a then-massive 792 cards for their flagship 1989 release. With more money being pumped into the hobby than ever before, this set contained many highly sought after rookie cards and stars of the era that remain popular with collectors to this day.

Two of the most iconic rookies from the late 80s had their rookie cards found in the 1989 Topps set – Ken Griffey Jr. and Gregg Maddux. Junior’s card quickly became one of the most valuable modern rookie cards after he burst onto the scene in 1989 with an incredible .309 batting average, 16 home runs, and 61 RBI in just 113 games as a 19 year old. His sweet left-handed swing and incredible defense in center field captivated fans and cemented him as a future superstar. Meanwhile, Maddux had quietly put together one of the greatest rookie seasons for a pitcher in 1988, going 16-8 with a 2.18 ERA and 1.15 WHIP for the Chicago Cubs. His intimidating control and deceptive delivery would make him a 4-time Cy Young award winner. Both of these rookies saw their 1989 Topps cards skyrocket up the value charts as they proved themselves to be among the game’s finest talents.

Another rookie who began turning heads in 1989 was Oakland A’s pitcher Todd Van Poppel. As the 14th overall pick in the 1990 MLB draft, huge expectations were placed on his shoulders. While control issues later derailed his career, Van Poppel put together an impressive debut by going 7-5 with a 3.64 ERA. His card became one of the most chased after short prints in the set. Fellow A’s prospects Walt Weiss and Rickey Henderson also had highly regarded rookie cards, with Henderson’s card showcasing him after back-to-back MVP seasons and 40/40 seasons with Oakland in 1987-88.

The 1989 set paid tribute to baseball history with Hank Aaron’s retirement and Rickey Henderson’s single season stolen base record. Aaron was shown hugging Ty Cobb on the record breaker card from 1974 after passing Cobb’s all-time hit mark. Henderson’s card highlighted his breakout of Lou Brock’s single season record with 139 steals in 1983. Star pitchers Nolan Ryan and Roger Clemens also received “achievement” cards for reaching milestones of 5,000 and 2,500 career strikeouts, respectively.

Undeniably, one of the biggest stars of the 1989 baseball season was Oakland Athletics slugger Jose Canseco. After winning the rookie of the year and MVP award in 1988, Canseco backed it up by belting 33 home runs to lead the league again and drive in a career-high 117 RBI. His massive muscles and home run prowess made him one of the most popular players in the game. His flagship Topps card showed him in his now iconic muscular pose that embodied the steroid era. Mark McGwire also had one of his best seasons, hitting 33 home runs for the A’s on his way to 396 career home runs at that point by age 26.

The 1989 Topps set contained base cards for many other huge stars of the late 80s as well. San Francisco Giant slugger Willie McCovey received an “All-Star” subset card reflecting his 22 all-star appearances. Atlanta Braves star Dale Murphy’s card highlighted his back-to-back NL MVP awards in 1982-83. California Angels first baseman Wally Joyner was coming off a breakout season where he led the league in RBI with 140. Cards were also included for Don Mattingly, Kirby Puckett, Orel Hershiser, and Ryne Sandberg among many others lighting up the box scores on a regular basis.

As was common for the year, the 1989 Topps set featured various colorful specialty subsets. A 34 card “Rookie Prospects” subset spotlighted many future stars farm system talent including David Justice, Moises Alou, and Bret Saberhagen. The “Manager’s Choice” subset showed managers alongside their favorite players, while the “Record Breakers” subset highlighted accomplishments over the 1988 season. Additional subsets included All-Stars, Turn Back The Clock retro designs, and glossy “Diamond Kings”. Topps also continued thetradition of including an Oscar Gamble-inspired disco ball refractors parallel subset in the base set.

When released, a pack of 1989 Topps retailed for $1, and the standard wax box contained 12 packs with 88 cards total. While production levels remained high at the peak of the market, many consider it one of the more aesthetically pleasing designs of the late 80s. Featuring vibrant team colors and focused individual poses, the photography helped captivate young collectors at the time. Over 30 years later, key rookie cards, stars, and short prints from the 1989 set still hold value for investors and enthusiasts of the vintage era. Cards like Griffey Jr., Maddux, Canseco, and Van Poppel rookie remain widely sought after by collectors, cementing the 1989 Topps baseball set as one of the premier issues from the boom period.

The 1989 Topps baseball card release contains legendary rookie cards, powerful sluggers, pitching greats and iconic stars that continue to excite collectors to this day. As one of the largest sets produced during the peak of the 1980s card boom, it exemplifies the spectacle and interest surrounding the hobby at that time. Featuring sharp photography and vivid designs, it transports fans back to an era when baseball seemed to be around every corner for kids. Over three decades later, this Topps flagship set still holds a special place in the collector community for its memorable rookies, career performances, and window into the late 80s game.Here is a 17,254 character article on 1989 Topps baseball cards:

The 1989 Topps baseball card set was the 58th year of Topps’ decades-long tradition of producing baseball cards. They continued using their classic design style that fans had come to know and love. The set contains 792 total cards including 660 player cards and 132 non-player cards such as managers, coaches, umpires, records, highlights, and advertisements.

Some key things to note about the 1989 Topps set include that it was the final year that Topps had the MLB license exclusively before Score entered the baseball card market in 1990. It was also the penultimate year before the MLB players went on strike in August 1990 which canceled the remainder of the season and World Series.

Topp’s 1989 design style featured a team logo in the foreground with the player’s name and that year’s stats below. On the back was the standard player info box with career stats and a brief bio. What made the 1989 set stand out visually was the vibrant neon colors used prominently throughout the borders and backgrounds. Neon pinks, greens, and blues created a very flashy and eye-catching style compared to previous drabber designs.

Rookie cards that debuted in the 1989 Topps set and went on to have Hall of Fame careers included Barry Larkin, Tom Glavine, Greg Maddux, and David Justice. Other top rookies were Bert Blyleven (HOF), Erik Hanson, Jeff Montgomery, and Chuck Knoblauch. The most valuable and sought-after rookie from 1989 is Ken Griffey Jr. who is arguably the most collectible baseball player ever. PSA 10 Griffey Jr. rookies have sold for over $100,000.

Veteran star players featured throughout the 1989 Topps set included Nolan Ryan (Angels), Wade Boggs (Red Sox), Ozzie Smith (Cardinals), Rickey Henderson (A’s), Dwight Gooden (Mets), Kirby Puckett (Twins), and Roger Clemens (Red Sox). Other notable veterans included Ryne Sandberg, George Brett, Mike Schmidt, Don Mattingly, and Tony Gwynn. The leadoff card is always one of the most popular and the #1 slot went to Ryan in 1989.

Some key statistical records and milestones highlighted in the 1989 Topps ‘Topps Records’ and ‘Topps Highlights’ subset included Nolan Ryan’s record 325th win, Wade Boggs breaking Honus Wagner’s record with his eighth straight batting title, and Roger Clemens’ record 20 strikeouts in nine innings against the Mariners in 1986. The ‘Topps Managers’ subset paid tribute to legends Earl Weaver, Tommy Lasorda, and Whitey Herzog among others.

Rare variations that collectors search for in the 1989 Topps set include any Frank Viola cards without the word ‘traded’ on them as he was dealt from the Twins to the Mets midway through the ’89 season. Other variations include ‘traded’ or ‘rookie cup’ markings, Glossy/Matte finishes, Printing Plate or Proof cards, and error variations like missing signatures, airbrushed logos, or swapped player photos.

The 1989 Topps baseball card release is regarded as one of the most visually appealing designs they ever produced. While not the most valuable set historically, it featured legendary rookie cards, all-time player cards, and commemorated iconic stats and milestones from that era of baseball. The neon colors and classic Topps design make this set stand out from 1988 and previous years. It remains a popular and accessible vintage set for collectors even today.

The 1989 Topps baseball cards maintained Topps’ standard of excellence while introducing some stylish new graphic elements. Rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr. and crime players highlight what was an iconic year in the game. Variations, parallels and the ever-popular base set cards all come together to represent a truly memorable season and create one of the most visually striking issues in the long history of Topps baseball cards. Whether collecting for enjoyment or investment, the 1989 Topps set endures as a classic among collectors.

A ROD BASEBALL CARDS

Leave a reply

Alex Rodriguez, known best as “A-Rod”, had a legendary 22-year career in Major League Baseball that spanned from 1994-2016. As one of the most talented and prolific players of his generation, A-Rod amassed over 3,000 hits, 700 home runs, and 3 MVP awards during his time with the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. His incredible on-field accomplishments have made his baseball cards some of the most popular and valuable in the hobby. Let’s take a deeper look at A-Rod’s career and some of his most noteworthy baseball cards.

A-Rod was selected with the first overall pick in the 1993 MLB Draft by the Seattle Mariners. He made his MLB debut the following year at just 18 years old, becoming the youngest player in the league. His rookie card from 1994 Fleer is one of the key early cards for collectors. While it holds value due to his stardom, the card is fairly common as it was produced during the junk wax era of the 1990s when print runs were enormous. Still, an autographed version of this card in mint condition could fetch over $1,000.

In 1996, A-Rod’s talent was becoming undeniable. He blasted 36 home runs and drove in 123 runs on his way to finishing third in AL MVP voting, despite playing most of the season as a shortstop who was just 20 years old. This breakout season is memorialized in his 1996 Bowman’s Best Refractor parallel card, of which only 10 were inserted per case. High-grade versions of this ultra-rare refracting parallel can sell for over $10,000, making it one of the true holy grails for A-Rod collectors.

After the 1997 season, A-Rod became a free agent and signed the richest contract in baseball history at the time with the Texas Rangers, worth $252 million over 10 years. His first card as a member of the Rangers came in 1998 Upper Deck, which remains one of the more common A-Rod cards available. Collectors love parallel and autographed versions of this iconic image of him in the Rangers uniform.

The 2000s saw A-Rod reach the peak of his powers. In 2001, he led the American League with 52 home runs and 147 RBI en route to winning his first AL MVP award as a shortstop for Texas. The 2001 Topps Traded card featuring this award-winning season is a highly sought after card in the hobby. An autographed version would be worth thousands.

Prior to the 2004 season, A-Rod was traded to the New York Yankees in a blockbuster deal. He immediately helped the team win their first World Series title in nearly a decade. The 2004 Topps card showing A-Rod in pinstripes for the first time is a pivotal moment captured in the set. Numbered parallels and autographs of this design continue to gain value with time.

A-Rod put together perhaps the finest individual season in baseball history in 2007. Batting primarily as a third baseman, he smacked 54 home runs with 156 RBI and a .314 batting average en route to capturing his third career AL MVP award. The 2007 Topps card highlighting these unreal stats is undoubtedly one of the most important modern A-Rod cards in existence. In pristine mint condition, it can sell for over $1,000.

In 2009, A-Rod passed the 500 home run milestone with two blasts on June 1st against the Orioles. The 2009 Topps Total card featuring this historic achievement remains one of the more popular modern A-Rod cards on the secondary market a decade later. Autographed and memorabilia versions are true collector treasures.

While PED use and subsequent suspensions marred the later stages of A-Rod’s career, he continued producing at an elite level. In 2015, he passed Willie Mays on the all-time home runs list, finishing his career with 696 dingers. The 2015 Topps Update card honoring this accomplishment serves as an important final chapter in A-Rod’s Hall of Fame caliber playing days.

In retirement, A-Rod has embraced his role as a baseball analyst and remains one of the most polarizing figures in the sport’s history. The cards chronicling his incredible 22-year MLB journey, from rookie to star to controversial home run king, will remain some of the most coveted in the industry for years to come. For collectors, A-Rod’s legendary career on and off the field lives on through the many incredible baseball cards he has left behind.

1991 BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY TOPPS

Leave a reply

The 1991 Topps baseball card set is considered one of the most valuable issues from the junk wax era of the late 1980s and early 1990s. While most cards from sets released during this time period are worth just a few cents, there are still several standout rookie cards and stars from the 1991 Topps set that can fetch hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most valuable 1991 Topps baseball cards worth money for collectors.

One of the true gems from the 1991 Topps set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best player rookie cards of all time, the Griffey Jr. card is still highly sought after by collectors decades after its original release. In pristine mint condition, Griffey’s rookie now sells for well over $1,000 and can reach up to $3,000 or more in gem mint 10 grade. Even in well-worn condition, this iconic rookie commands over $100. The card was ahead of its time by featuring Griffey Jr. during his early days with the Seattle Mariners when he was already establishing himself as a future superstar.

Another highly valuable rookie from 1991 Topps is the Chipper Jones card. As the #1 overall pick in the 1990 draft, Jones made his MLB debut in 1991 and had a strong rookie season with the Atlanta Braves. His Topps rookie in near-mint to mint condition can sell for $400-600. Like Griffey, Jones went on to have a Hall of Fame career that spanned over two decades, making his rookie one of the more desirable cards from the set.

Two other notable rookies that can still fetch over $100 are Bobby Bonilla’s and David Justice’s rookie cards. Bonilla had established himself as a solid player by 1991 with the Pirates, while Justice was just starting to break out in his first full season with the Braves. Both players enjoyed long, productive big league careers. Their rookie cards remain quite collectible, especially in higher grades.

Of course, no discussion of valuable 1991 Topps cards would be complete without mentioning superstar shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. While not a rookie card, Ripken’s base card from the 1991 set consistently sells for $50-100 due to his iconic status as one of baseball’s true iron men. His record-breaking 2,632 consecutive game streak captured the nation’s attention and cemented his place in Cooperstown. Any Ripken card from his early collecting days with the Orioles holds value.

Two other veteran superstars who command money for their 1991 Topps base cards are Kirby Puckett and Barry Bonds. Puckett was a six-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer with the Twins, while Bonds was already establishing himself as one of the game’s best players in his early Pirates days. Both cards can reach $50-75 in high grades. The popularity of these future Hall of Famers continues to drive collector demand.

The 1991 Topps set also featured several stars in the midst of historic seasons. For example, Rickey Henderson’s card from his record-setting 1990 campaign with the A’s—when he stole 119 bases and won the AL MVP—sells for $30-50. Dennis Eckersley’s card from his first season after being traded to the A’s—when he won the Cy Young and MVP as a closer—also fetches $30-50. And Jose Canseco’s card from his 40-40 season with the A’s can reach $25-40.

In terms of team card subsets, the 1991 Topps Traded set featured an ultra-rare Frank Thomas rookie card that was only available through a mail-in offer. Graded examples have sold for over $10,000. The Griffey Jr. Traded card also holds value at $200-400. The flagship set included “Team Leaders” inserts that highlighted individual club stats from 1990. The Nolan Ryan strikeout leader card regularly sells for $50-75 due to his popularity.

While the junk wax era produced massive print runs that hurt the long-term value of many modern cards, savvy collectors have still found valuable gems within the 1991 Topps baseball set. Three decades later, the iconic rookie cards of Griffey, Jones, Bonds and others continue to be strong sellers. The superstar cards of Ripken, Puckett, Henderson and more also retain collector interest. For those willing to hunt through boxes and collections, the 1991 Topps issue can still uncover high-priced hits.