Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

SUPERSTAR BASEBALL CARDS LONG JOHN SILVER’s

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The Baseball Card Craze and Long John Silver’s Promotions

During the late 1980s and early 1990s, baseball cards were all the rage among kids and collectors alike. Nearly every place kids frequented seemed to offer baseball cards as promotions or prizes. One such establishment taking advantage of the baseball card craze was the Long John Silver’s seafood chain.

Long John Silver’s realized that kids loved baseball cards and would flock to any establishment giving them away. So throughout the late 80s and early 90s, the chain rolled out numerous baseball card promotions sure to attract young customers. Some promotions included including packs of cards with kids’ meals, running contests where entry was a baseball card, and even whole sets given away with a certain amount of purchases.

Baseball cards were the perfect promotional tie-in for Long John Silver’s. The nostalgia and collectability aspect attracted kids, while the fairly low production costs meant the chain could give away packs or full sets profitably. All the while, kids would associate Long John Silver’s with fun baseball prizes and be more likely to stop in frequently. The marketing strategy proved very successful for the chain.

Some notable Long John Silver’s baseball card promotions from the era included:

1988 “Kids Eat Free” Contest – To promote its new kids’ meal options, LJS ran a summer-long contest where kids could mail in the front of a 1988 Topps baseball card for a chance to win free kids’ meals for a year. Dozens of local winners were chosen.

1990 All-Star Game Set Giveaway – In conjunction with the 1990 MLB All-Star Game held in Chicago that year, Long John Silver’s distributed complete sets of 1990 All-Star Game commons to customers who purchased a kids’ meal. Each set included 24 red-bordered cards.

1991 Rookie Cups Promotion – To highlight the best rookie players, LJS offered baseball card attached to the outside of kid’s drink cups featuring the Top 50 rookie prospects as voted by baseball experts. Cards could also be redeemed for food prizes.

1992 World Series Champs Inserts – When the Toronto Blue Jays won the 1992 World Series, LJS distributed special green-bordered Champions insert cards of Blue Jays players to first 250 customers each day for a month afterwards.

1993 Home Run Kings Sweepstakes – Touting the home run prowess of stars like McGwire and Bonds, LJS ran a season-long contest where entries were the 1993 Topps Home Run Kings subset cards. Grand prizes included sets autographed by sluggers.

The clever Long John Silver’s promotions introduced new kids to the hobby while satisfying existing collectors. For parents, the added baseball card perks meant satisfied kids more likely to enjoy their meal. And the promotions were a winner for LJS, keeping the chain’s brand fresh in kid customers’ minds yearly through the cards.

While the promotions mostly centered around mainstream Topps issues of the time, LJS sometimes partnered with regional or independent card companies too. The Gateway Grizzlies, a Midwest minor league team, even produced exclusive “Shrimpboat” caricature cards for giveaways at select coastal Long John Silver’s locations one summer.

By catering campaigns to yearly sporting events, new product releases, and baseball milestones, Long John Silver’s managed to sustain its baseball card promotions for several seasons running. The strategies introduced baseball memorabilia to a new generation of fans who fondly remember collecting at their local Long John’s. Even after the earlier baseball card boom faded, the promotions left a lasting impact linking the chain to childhood summer pleasures for many.

Long John Silver’s creative use of the immense baseball card popularity was a textbook example of attracting kids to restaurants through clever prizes doubling as collectibles. The strategies brought in customers both young and old during baseball’s peak collecting years. Decades later, the promotions remain fondly remembered as a unique piece of sports and fast food history from the late 20th century.

1972 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS DATABASE

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The 1972 Topps baseball card set was issued by Topps during the 1972 baseball season. The complete set contains 792 cards and was the first Topps set to break the 700 card mark. One of the most fascinating aspects of the 1972 Topps set is the extensive database that card collectors and researchers have compiled containing information and statistics on each player and card in the set.

This 1972 Topps database tracks key details like individual player statistics from the 1971 season that would have been known when the cards were designed and produced in late 1971/early 1972. It also documents information printed directly on the cards such as positions played, batting and pitching stats, rookie or star status. Beyond the basics, the extensive research done on the 1972 set over the decades has uncovered many interesting facts and anomalies within the numbered statistics.

One example is the case of pitcher Diego Segui, who is listed on his 1972 Topps card as having an ERA of 2.70. Researchers know that his actual ERA for the 1971 season was 2.79, meaning Topps printed an incorrect stat. In another case, reliever Jack Aker’s win-loss record is listed as 6-6 on his card but he actually finished 1971 at 7-6. Minor errors and discrepancies like this scattered among the hundreds of player stats provide a real curiosity for those obsessively scrutinizing the 1972 database.

In addition to statistics, other key details tracked in the database include photo variations, errors, omissions, stage of career, and tragic eventualities like premature death. The 1972 set is also known for featuring rookie cards of future Hall of Famers like George Brett, Dave Parker, Tommy John, Rich Gossage, Paul Molitor and #1 overall draft pick David Clyde. Tracking which cards depicted a player’s rookie season versus a photo from a later year offers important context.

For example, researcher have discovered that Reds’ second baseman Joe Morgan’s 1972 Topps card shows him with the Houston Astros, even though it was issued after he was traded to the Reds in November 1971. The database also notes how Morgan’s rookie season was actually 1965, but he didn’t receive a true rookie card until his appearance in the 1968 Fleer and Topps sets. Cataloging details like this uncovers interesting facts beyond just statistics.

The 1972 database is also enhanced by the inclusion of information about errors, omissions and anomalies in the production process that year. A notable error saw Joe Torre’s first name mistakenly spelled “Jerry” on his Cardinals manager card. Rangers prospects Mike Hargrove and Bert Blyleven were accidentally left out of the set entirely despite making their MLB debuts in 1971. Documenting production errors or player exclusions from the issued checklist adds another layer of intrigue.

Another area tracked extensively in the 1972 Topps database is the countless variations that existed in the photo and design process that year. For example, researchers have identified at least 7 different photo variations of Johnny Bench’s card alone. Even more have been cataloged for other players across the set. Noting photo or design changes between early and late print runs deepens understanding of the manufacturing intricacies behind the scenes.

As with any vintage sports card set, the 1972 edition also memorializes players who passed away long before their time. Sadly, the database has expanded over the decades to include notes about players like Duane Josephson and Tom Burgmeier, who both had promising careers cut short by tragic accidents in the early 1970s. Their inclusion in the set takes on extra historical significance in light of their untimely deaths.

The incredible depth of detailed information chronicled about each player and card within the 1972 Topps baseball set over the past 50 years represents an incredibly comprehensive undertaking. It allows for a richer appreciation of the statistical context behind the cards at the time of issue as well as the many anomalies, variations and unique stories that enhance our understanding of the set and memorialization of players from that era. No other vintage release has perhaps had its history, nuances and footnotes documented as thoroughly as the 1972 edition.

SHOULD YOU GET YOUR BASEBALL CARDS GRADED

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Getting your baseball cards professionally graded is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. There are advantages and disadvantages to consider, so it is important to understand the grading process and how it can impact the value and preservation of your collection.

One of the main reasons collectors consider grading is to verify the condition and authenticity of valuable cards. A professional grading company will examine the card under high-powered magnification and assign it a grade on the industry-standard 1-10 scale. This gives buyers confidence in exactly what kind of shape the card is in without having to inspect it themselves. Receiving a high grade from a reputable service like PSA or BGS can significantly boost a card’s worth, especially for rare and iconic cards that are in pristine condition.

The grading process itself comes at a cost. Major companies charge fees of $10-20 per card on average, with express or bulk order options that may lower that amount slightly. For a collector with dozens or hundreds of cards, those fees can add up quite quickly. There is also the risk that a card you believe is in mint condition could come back with a grade of 8 or lower. This means the card’s value may not increase as much as anticipated to justify the cost of submitting it.

Another factor to weigh is how a graded card’s value changes over time compared to raw, ungraded cards. High-end vintage cards have historically held their value well or increased if they receive top Gem Mint 10 grades from services like PSA. But for modern cards, there is no guarantee a PSA 10 will command a premium over a raw near-mint copy in 5-10 years as the bubble could burst on certain players or sets. The market is always shifting, so grading is not a sure-fire path to future profits.

Protecting the condition of valuable cards long-term is a key selling point for grading advocates. Snap-fits holders and stamped certification help deter tampering and authenticate the card years later. Raw cards are at much higher risk of damage from handling, moisture, heat exposure, and accidental alterations. But acrylic cases can also potentially damage cards over decades if they develop cracks or lose a perfect seal around the edges. Outer boxes, binders, and custom storage methods offer graded-level protection without grading fees.

For collectors grading only their true prize possessions, like rare vintage rookies, the cost is often worth the verification and preservation benefits. But for teams sets, modern parallels, and cards in average overall condition, raw storage in custom binders and fitting sleeves may suffice. As a general guideline, most experts say to only submit cards valued at $100 or more raw to grading unless authenticity or condition assurance is paramount. Below that, the fees are often not worthwhile for the average collector.

The exploding popularity of graded cards on the secondary market has also led to a new issue – the potential of “regraded” cards. Unscrupulous dealers may submit the same card to multiple grading services, hoping for a single high grade that can then be marketed as though it came directly from the grading company. Legitimate collectors often prefer cards that still have originalSubmission Authentication stickers intact to prevent regraded deception. Grading services are aware of the issue and implement anti-tamperingfeatures, but buyers still need to do diligence.

Card grading makes the most sense when the potential upgrade in value clearly outweighs fees for high-dollar cards, prized rookies, or collectibles being sold long-term. But for team sets, modern parallels, and average quality vintage, raw storage remains a prudent alternative. Collectors should carefully weigh the pros and cons based on their individual needs around condition verification, value increases, and preservation before deciding to submit prized pieces to the grading process. An educated approach is required to maximize returns in this evolving marketplace segment.

1990 LOONEY TUNES BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1990 Topps Looney Tunes Baseball Cards were a set of trading cards produced by Topps featuring characters from the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies animated cartoons. Released as part of Topps’ flagship series in 1990, the cards were highly popular among collectors both young and old. While not Stratospherically valuable today, the cards retain appeal for fans of the vintage cartoons.

The idea behind the set was to pair beloved Looney Tunes characters with Major League Baseball players in a fun, lighthearted way. Each card featured a Looney Tunes character Photoshopped into action shots from baseball cards of current MLB players. Characters were assigned positions on an imaginary “Looney Tunes” team. For example, Bugs Bunny was the team’s catcher paired with catcher Gary Carter’s photo. Road Runner was the team’s pinch runner mixed with Rickey Henderson’s action shot.

Topps produced a 198 card base set plus additional chase cards that were inserted randomly in wax packs. Standouts from the base set include rare parallel “black border” variations of select cards. These are highly sought after by collectors today. The chase cards consisted of subsets highlighting individual Looney Tunes characters. These included “Spielberg directed” 11 card inserts honoring Steven Spielberg, who was producing new Looney Tunes animated shorts at the time for Warner Bros.

While produced as a mainstream set by Topps rather than as high-end memorabilia, the cards developed a strong cult following over the decades with both cartoon and sports card aficionados. They tap into great nostalgia for the classic Looney Tunes characters which were such a big part of many collectors’ childhoods. Even individuals who didn’t collect cards as kids recognize and appreciate the characters paired with legendary MLB players from the late 80s-early 90s era.

In the ensuing years since the set’s 1990 release, the secondary trading card market developed greatly online. This allowed the Looney Tunes cards to find new collectors and appreciation. While the common cards in raw near mint condition typically sell for $1-5, there is strong demand for pristine graded examples which can fetch $10-25. The chase cards such as the “Spielberg” inserts have an even wider pricing range depending on grade – from $15-50 for low-graded to $100-250 for gem mint copies.

The true prizes of the set which can sell for hundreds or even over $1000 are the scarce “black border” parallel cards, especially of the most iconic characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Elmer Fudd. Only a small number of these were produced and obtaining high-quality pristine examples today is quite challenging. In 2014, a PSA 10 graded black border Bugs Bunny card sold for an astounding $1250, showing the immense interest when true key items from the set surface on the market.

While mass-produced trading cards from the early 90s will never reach the prices of true vintage sports cards, the enduring popularity and visual creativity of the 1990 Looney Tunes set ensures strong collector interest long-term. Younger fans are also discovering the characters through streaming and re-releases, bringing new collectors into the hobby. For dedicated Looney Tunes or sports card collectors, full raw or graded sets in top condition can sell for $150-250, a relatively modest amount considering it combines two beloved collecting genres into one fun product.

While the 1990 Topps Looney Tunes Baseball Cards may lack the investment grade status of acknowledged vintage sports cards, their combination of cartoon nostalgia and MLB all-star subject matter has produced a lively cult following. Even over 30 years later, seeing Bugs Bunny on the pitcher’s mound or Tweety Bird in centerfield brings a smile. This ensures the set will hold relevance and commerce on the collecting market for many years to come, especially in high qualityPresentation suchas professional grading. While expensive keys are understandably scarce, the set as a whole provides an affordable entry into two classic fandoms.

BASEBALL CARDS SOMERSET NJ

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Baseball cards have been a beloved hobby for collectors across the United States for over a century. In Somerset County, New Jersey, baseball cards remain a popular pastime for both casual fans and serious collectors alike. The area around Somerset has a rich history with the sport and memorabilia dating back to the earliest days of professional baseball. Whether browsing local card shops or connecting with other collectors, Somerset County continues to foster communities of people passionate about America’s pastime on cardboard.

Some of the earliest organized baseball in Somerset County dates back to the 1890s when semi-pro teams like the Somerville Grays played local games. As baseball grew in popularity nationwide in the early 20th century, cards featuring major leaguers became widely available through tobacco products. Many lifelong Somerset residents still fondly remember trading and collecting cards as kids in the 1950s and 60s, amassing collections featuring stars like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays. Today, those vintage cards remain highly sought after by collectors both locally and internationally.

In the 1970s, the rise of the hobby industry led to the opening of dedicated card shops in Somerset County mall areas like Bridgewater Commons. Stores like Monmouth Cards offered the latest wax packs alongside supplies for collectors like binders, magazines, and price guides. Throughout the 80s and 90s, the area saw a boom in youth leagues and card trading, with shops hosting popular weekend events that drew collectors from across New Jersey. Even as the industry consolidated in the late 90s/early 2000s, a strong local collector base supported dedicated hobby stores in Somerset well into the new millennium.

Today, Somerset County continues to be home to passionate baseball card communities. Local shops like Monmouth Cards have been fixtures for decades, catering to collectors of all ages and interests. Stores stock the latest releases and hold events centered around releases, giveaways, and contests that draw crowds. Beyond browsing for new cards, shops also offer supplies and a place for collectors to connect, trade, and discuss the hobby. Online groups on Facebook additionally foster local card connections, with members regularly meeting up for shows, group breaks, and collections discussions.

For serious collectors, the Somerset area also features opportunities to buy, sell, and trade high-end vintage and modern cards. Annual multi-day card shows are held at locations like the Bridgewater Marriott, bringing in hundreds of dealers with extensive vintage and graded card inventory at competitive prices. These events are a major draw for collectors up and down the East Coast looking for key cards to complete sets or start new collections. Regional auctions by companies like Robert Edward also feature consignments of valuable local collections several times a year.

Beyond shops and shows, Somerset County’s public libraries additionally support baseball card communities. Branches in towns like Bound Brook, Somerville, and Bridgewater hold regular card trading events and educational seminars open to all. Programs teach the history of the hobby, best collecting practices, and card valuation methods. Children’s sections also promote the hobby through baseball-themed book collections and starter trading card packs. Local little leagues and high school teams further foster card traditions, with players often collecting cards of themselves and teammates.

With its rich baseball history and passionate collector communities, Somerset County continues to be a hub for the baseball card hobby in New Jersey and beyond. Whether discovering vintage treasures or following today’s stars, the area offers card fans plentiful opportunities to share their passion. From dedicated local shops to major collector events, Somerset ensures the timeless appeal of America’s pastime lives on in cardboard form for generations to come.

1991 IMPEL BASEBALL CARDS WORTH MONEY

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The 1991 Impel baseball card set is one of the more obscure sets from the early 1990s. Impel was a Japanese trading card company that produced cards for both American and Japanese sports leagues. Their 1991 baseball card set focused entirely on Major League Baseball players and managers. While not as widely collected as sets from Topps, Fleer, or Donruss, the 1991 Impel set can contain some valuable and desirable cards for collectors.

One of the top cards from the 1991 Impel set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Griffey was already establishing himself as a superstar outfielder in his early years with the Seattle Mariners. His rookie card from Impel is quite scarce and in high demand from Griffey collectors. A PSA 10 Gem Mint Griffey rookie in pristine condition could fetch over $5,000. Even well-centered near mint copies in PSA 8 or 9 condition sell for $300-500. Griffey rookie cards were not included in the main Topps or Fleer sets that year, making his Impel card the true rookie.

Other star players from the early 1990s with valuable Impel rookie cards include Chuck Knoblauch, Jeff Bagwell, and Frank Thomas. Knoblauch was coming off an AL Rookie of the Year award with the Twins in 1991 and his Impel rookie has maintained strong collector interest. A PSA 10 Knoblauch rookie could bring in over $1,000, with PSA 8s reaching $200-300. Bagwell’s star power rose quickly with the Astros and his scarce Impel rookie from the team’s 1991 return to respectability is highly sought after. Pristine PSA 10 Bagwell rookies sell for $800-1,000, with mint PSA 9s going for around $350. Frank Thomas debuted with the White Sox in 1990 but his Impel rookie from 1991 is the true first card appearance. A perfect gem quality PSA 10 Thomas rookie would sell for at least $750-1,000.

While rookie cards tend to drive the high values from the 1991 Impel set, some star veteran cards can also hold substantial collector value. A near mint condition Kirby Puckett who was in his prime with the Twins in 1991 usually sells for $100-150. The impressive mustached brothers of Oakland, slugger Jose Canseco and pitcher Dennis Eckersley, normally fetch $75-100 each in PSA 8-9 condition. Nolan Ryan, even at age 44 during his final season with the Rangers in 1991, maintains strong demand and his Impel can sell for $50-75 graded PSA 8. More accomplished veterans like Wade Boggs, Ozzie Smith, and Roger Clemens range from $40-60 a piece in top graded gem mint condition.

Aside from star players, the 1991 Impel set also contains a few desirable manager and team checklist cards that collectors seek out. The Atlanta Braves were coming off a surprise NL West division title in 1991 led by manager Bobby Cox in his first full season. His Impel manager card rarely surfaces on the secondary market and could command $150-250 in mint condition to the right Braves collector. The set also features team cards for all 26 MLB franchises at the time. The Blue Jays, Twins, and Braves team cards tend to be the most expensive at $75-100 each graded PSA/BGS 9-10 due to the popularity and success of those franchises in the early 1990s.

While the 1991 Impel set lacks the distribution and mainstream recognition of the major American trading card producers, it can still contain some valuable and hard-to-find gems for baseball collectors almost 30 years later. With stars like Griffey, Knoblauch, Bagwell, and Thomas appearing in their true rookie card forms mixed amongst accomplished veterans, the set holds plenty of desirability. With scarce population reports from grading services and fewer unopened Impel packs surviving to this day, mint condition graded examples command strong secondary market prices. For dedicated baseball card collectors seeking out obscure early 90s rookies and stars, the 1991 Impel set deserves a closer look.

WORTH OF BASEBALL CARDS CALCULATOR

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Determining the Worth of Baseball Cards

Baseball cards have been collected by fans and enthusiasts for over a century. While cards were originally produced primarily as marketing tools and incentives for things like gum and candy, they grew to become a cultural phenomenon in their own right. Today, a sizeable industry has emerged around collecting, grading, buying, selling and trading baseball cards. With so many factors influencing a card’s value, how can you tell what an individual card or collection might be worth? Here are some key aspects to consider when trying to calculate the worth of your baseball cards.

Baseball card values are influenced by numerous things including the year and set the card is from, the player featured, the player’s accomplishments and notoriety, the physical condition and grade of the card, and market supply and demand forces. One of the most important factors is the year the card was printed, as older cards tend to be worth more due simply to their scarcity and historical significance. Within a given year or set, the players featured can also dramatically impact value. Star players, Hall of Famers, rookie cards and unique cards command higher prices than backups or less noteworthy players.

Additional things like autographs, rare variations, special serial numbers and unique characteristics can also multiply a card’s value. The physical condition is critical too, as even minor flaws or wear can decrease worth significantly. Professionally grading your cards from services like PSA, BGS or SGC can assure buyers of their quality and help command top dollar. Grade also plays a role, as higher numerical grades of NM-MT 8 or Gem Mint 10 fetch the best prices in the marketplace. Condition is especially important for the most valuable vintage cards from the 1910s-1950s, as the survivors from that era are few and far between.

When calculating card values, it’s also important to consider trends in the marketplace. Like any collectible industry, the baseball card market experiences cycles. Prices tend to fluctuate up and down depending on overall interest and enthusiasm from collectors. Booms often coincide with important anniversaries, new product releases, playoff/World Series performances by star players and other factors stoking renewed collecting passion. Bust periods see values deflate somewhat until the next surge of interest. Understanding these larger economic forces at work provides helpful context when assigning price estimates.

Pricing single cards also requires examining recent sales data for comparable items. Sites like eBay allow you to search “sold listings” to view exactly what similar cards in the same condition, autographs, etc. have actually sold for, rather than just listed asking prices. Resources like PSA’s online price guide, Beckett Price Guides, Trading Card DB and 130 Point also publish estimated valuations you can reference as starting points, but real sales histories are best.

For full collections, a different process is typically used that values cards individually but then applies collection premiums or discounts depending on other attributes. For example, a complete vintage set in top condition could carry a 20-30% premium over individual estimated prices. But a disorganized collection of random cards in lower grades may garner a 10-20% discount versus individual values.

When it comes to properly calculating a baseball card’s worth, thorough research, understanding the intricacies of supply and demand, and examining verified recent sale comps are key. Professional grading, maintaining condition, andfactorssuch as star players, rookie cards and autographs significantly Impact worth.Card values are living, breathing things that change overtime based on collector interest and the constantly evolving marketplace. With diligent work, you can arrive at well-supported price estimates to understand the true value of your baseball card collection. Whether choosing to ultimately sell your cards or keep them, knowing their worth is an insightful part of engaging as a collector in this enjoyable hobby.

BEST BASEBALL CARDS IN 1987

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The 1987 baseball card season was one of the most memorable in the modern era. Led by superstar rookies like Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire, the ‘87 crop featured many iconic rookie cards and memorable moments captured on cardboard. With the rise of the junk wax era in full swing, production numbers were through the roof. But several standout rookie cards and key veterans from the period have stood the test of time.

Perhaps the most coveted rookie card from 1987 is none other than Barry Bonds of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Bonds would go on to have one of the greatest careers in MLB history and his rookie is still highly sought after today. Sporting Pirates powder blue and famous number 25, the Bonds rookie highlighted his impressive physique and smooth left-handed swing. While production numbers were high for ‘87 cards overall, the Bonds rookie remains one of the most valuable modern rookie cards on the market. Graded mint condition copies can fetch thousands.

Another huge star rookie card from 1987 was Mark McGwire of the Oakland A’s. Big Mac blasted onto the scene with 49 home runs in his first full season, foreshadowing his record-breaking power displays later in his career. McGwire’s rookie card from Donruss showcases his muscular build and demonstrates why he was already being dubbed one of the premier power hitters in the game. High-grade versions can still demand over $1000. Both the Bonds and McGwire rookies are must-owns for any serious baseball card collector.

While rookies often drive the hobby, legendary veterans remained highly sought after as well. One of the most iconic cards from 1987 was the Nolan Ryan Express card from Score. At age 40, Ryan was still blowing away batters with 100 mph heaters for the Houston Astros. The Express card captured Ryan mid-windup, muscles straining as he prepared to unleash another blistering fastball. Over 30 years later it remains one of the most visually striking baseball cards ever produced.

Another standout veterans card was the Cal Ripken Jr. card from Fleer. Featuring a clean-shaven Ripken in an Orioles batting stance, it highlighted his smooth lefty swing during his MVP 1987 season. Ripken would go on to break Lou Gehrig’s famed consecutive games played record, making any card from his early years that more historically significant. Higher grade copies of the ‘87 Fleer Ripken have also cracked the $1000 price point.

Rookies and veterans weren’t the only storylines that year. Donruss captured perhaps the most iconic baseball card image ever with its Ozzie Smith Backflip card. The snapshot perfectly captured the Wizard of Oz mid-backflip after making an acrobatic play in the field. It’s a testament to Smith’s otherworldly defensive skills and highlight reel plays that have made him a fan favorite for generations. High-grade versions remain a grail card for many collectors.

While the 1987 Donruss and Fleer sets are most remembered today, other notable issues from the period included Topps, Score, and Upper Deck. The flagship Topps set that year featured future Hall of Famers like Wade Boggs, Rickey Henderson, and Roger Clemens. Score provided creative photography and die-cuts. Upper Deck also emerged on the scene with their premium cardboard and sharper photography. Each offered memorable rookie cards and snapshots from that memorable MLB season.

While 1987 marked the peak of the junk wax era in terms of production, several truly iconic cards were also produced that have stood the test of time. Rookie cards of Bonds, McGwire, and veterans like Ripken, Ryan, and Smith remain highly coveted by collectors decades later. Their memorable images and connection to baseball history have cemented them as some of the most important cards from the modern era. For those seeking cards from one of the hobby’s most recognizable seasons, 1987 delivers on several fronts.

1981 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS CHECKLIST

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The 1981 Topps baseball card set is one of the most iconic issues in the company’s storied history. Issued during a time of transition as baseball’s “Golden Era” of the 1970s was coming to a close, the 1981 checklist remains a fascinating snapshot into the sport during that period.

The set features 660 total cards including 652 base cards, 2 manager cards, 4 league leader cards, and 2 checklist cards. Some of the biggest player attractions of the era like Nolan Ryan, George Brett, and Steve Garvey grace the front of many packs. The 1981 roster also showcases future Hall of Famers and stars-in-the-making during their early career seasons.

Speaking of rising talents, the 1981 issue marks rookie cards for players like Fernando Valenzuela, Rollie Fingers, Brett Butler, Dave Stieb, and Gary Ward. “FernandoMania” was in full swing as the Mexican fireballer took Los Angeles and baseball by storm in his first big league campaign. His iconic rookie introduces collectors to one of the premier pitchers of the 1980s.

Veteran hurlers like Phil Niekro, Gaylord Perry, Don Sutton, and Tom Seaver all receive standard base cards as well after achieving countless milestones throughout their careers. Seaver’s presence in particular is notable after his blockbuster trade from the “Mets” to the Reds prior to the 1977 season. Other pitching greats like Tom Terrific, J.R. Richard, Bruce Sutter, Dave Righetti and Rick Sutcliffe also made their Topps debuts in 1981.

On the position player side, slugging sensations like Mike Schmidt, Dave Kingman, Reggie Jackson, Andre Dawson, and Tony Armas Jr. fueled lineups across the sport. Schmidt’s dominance as the NL’s premier third baseman was unparalleled as he won his third MVP award in 1981. Elsewhere, Rod Carew, Pete Rose, Robin Yount, Darrell Porter and Garry Templeton held down the everyday lineup slots.

A handful of managers also received special spotlight cards separate from the base set. These include Dick Williams of the Seattle Mariners, Bobby Cox of the Atlanta Braves, and Dallas Green of the Philadelphia Phillies, among others. Iconic skippers Gene Mauch and Earl Weaver round out the managerial representation in the issue.

The league leader subset awards the top performers in several key statistical categories from 1980. The honorees were Steve Carlton (“NL” wins leader), Mike Schmidt (“NL” home runs leader), Dave Revering (“AL” batting average leader), and Eddie Murray (“AL” RBI leader). These parallel accomplishments remain some of the most memorable individual efforts of their respective careers.

Two grand checklist cards featuring the teams and players encompass the entire set at the conclusion. Topps creative design choices truly shined through on these summary frames that conveniently organized rosters for collectors. The checklists presented a complete overview of the 1981 baseball season frozen in cardboard form.

In terms of production and numbering, the standard 652 baseball cards run from 1-652 without any breaks in between. The two checklist cards come in at numbers 653 and 654. Numbers 655 and 656 are assigned to the AL and NL leader cards, with 657 and 658 going to the manager cards. Overall set registry totals 660 different items to acquire.

Condition census data shows the 1981 Topps issue maintained strong survival rates compared to other 1970s/1980s releases. Many factors likely contributed such as larger initial print runs, widespread distribution through hobby shops/retailers, and the modern visuals that didn’t quickly date the designs. Top graded rookies from the set especially like Fernando Valenzuela still trade hands frequently in pristine condition.

While perhaps not as highly regarded in terms of historical significance compared to some earlier decades, the 1981 Topps checklist perfectly captured a dynamic baseball world in transition. Emerging young talents, veteran mainstays and statistical leaders took center stage alongside classic ballpark portraits. The cards preserved the past and present of America’s pastime during one of its most entertaining and competitive eras.

BIG NAME IN BASEBALL CARDS NYT

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The New York Times recently published an article highlighting one of the biggest names in the baseball card collecting industry today – Ken Goldin. As the founder and chairman of Goldin Auctions, Ken Goldin has revolutionized the sports memorabilia marketplace and helped shatter records for some of the most valuable baseball cards ever sold.

Goldin got his start in the baseball card business in the late 1980s after working as a broker on Wall Street. Seeing an opportunity in the growing collecting market, he decided to leave his job and focus full-time on buying, selling, and auctioning vintage sports cards and memorabilia. In 1991, he founded Goldin Auctions with the goal of bringing transparency and legitimacy to a sector that had traditionally been shrouded in secrecy.

Prior to Goldin, most high-end baseball card sales were conducted privately through dealers with no real record of the final price. But Goldin brought the auction process online, allowing collectors from all over the world to participate. He also insisted on third-party authentication of items and full disclosure of any condition issues, setting a new standard. This helped build trust with the collecting community and allowed true market values to be established.

Over the next few decades, Goldin Auctions disrupted the sports collecting industry and shattered numerous world records. In 2007, they sold a 1909 Honus Wagner T206 card, one of the rarest in the world, for $2.8 million. It remained the most ever paid for a single baseball card. Then in 2016, they one-upped themselves by selling the same Wagner card for $3.12 million, setting a new auction record.

A year later, Goldin Auctions made headlines again when a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card received a winning bid of $2.88 million. This was not only a new record for a Mantle rookie but the highest price ever achieved for any post-war baseball card. Both the Wagner and Mantle sales demonstrated Ken Goldin’s ability to attract serious, deep-pocketed collectors to his auctions.

In addition to record-breaking individual card sales, Goldin Auctions has facilitated some of the largest sports memorabilia collections ever sold. In 2015, they auctioned the famed Barry Halper Baseball Collection, which contained over 5,000 cards and netted over $20 million. Two years later, the Dan Ilisyn Collection crossed the block, comprising over 10,000 pre-war tobacco cards and selling for $31.1 million.

Goldin has also been instrumental in expanding the collector base internationally. In the late 1990s, he started traveling overseas for card shows and auctions in Europe and Asia, helping expose new audiences. Today, bidders from over 50 countries regularly participate in Goldin Auctions’ online-only sales. This globalization of the market has only served to further inflate card values.

While Goldin has had tremendous success selling ultra-high-end vintage cards, his company has also worked to make the hobby more accessible. In recent years, they have conducted “Heritage Auctions” that focus on mid-range post-war rookies and stars with price points under $1,000. This has allowed newer collectors to more reasonably build sets and collections.

Beyond his auction house, Ken Goldin has become one of the most prominent spokespeople for the sports memorabilia industry. He is frequently interviewed by major news outlets and appears at card shows worldwide, where he gives seminars on collecting trends, highlights important pieces coming to market, and shares advice for investors. Goldin also publishes an annual price guide cataloging record sales to help collectors value their collections.

There is no doubt that Ken Goldin has left an immense mark on the baseball card collecting world. Through his groundbreaking auction platform and unmatched promotional efforts, he has helped transform the once niche hobby into a billion-dollar industry. And as values continue climbing to new stratospheric levels, Goldin Auctions will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, shattering records and making headlines with their next historic sale. For all he has done to grow the business of sports cards and influence collectors globally, Ken Goldin truly stands out as one of the biggest names in the entire industry today.