Category Archives: BASEBALL CARDS

1968 HOLOGRAM BASEBALL CARDS

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In 1968, Topps released what is considered the first modern hologram trading card as part of its regular baseball card collection for that year. While holograms had been developed in the late 1940s and early 1950s, Topps was the first trading card company to apply this new technology to cards featuring athletes on a large scale for the mass consumer market. The inclusion of this innovative hologram on one of the 1968 cards marked a major breakthrough in trading card design and manufacturing.

As hologram technology continued advancing through the 1960s, Topps executives were looking for new ways to provide baseball card collectors with novel inserts or special featured cards that would garner attention. In 1967, as they were finalizing plans for the 1968 set design, Topps began cautiously exploring the potential of incorporating a hologram image on one of the cards as a bonus item within the larger collection. After proving the concept could successfully work within the restraints of card production, it was decided a hologram card would be included as a one-of-a-kind exclusive for the upcoming season.

For the card subject, Topps selected Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Mets pitchers Roger Craig and Jerry Koosman, respectively. Both were established veteran left-handed starting pitchers who were having solid seasons in 1968 and would be recognizable names for collectors. The card was designed with a front image showing Craig and Koosman in action on the mound, with their individual statistics and team logos depicted as well. The truly unique aspect was that instead of a standard rear photo or graphic, the entire back of this card contained a reflective hologram layer.

When viewed at different angles while tilting the card back and forth, the hologram image embedded within would display alternating still photos of either Craig or Koosman pitching. It was among the earliest applications of hologram technology within a mass-produced consumer product and reflected how far the field of holography had progressed by the late 1960s. For baseball card collectors and fans at the time, it delivered an amazing visual experience unlike anything seen before in the hobby.

Naturally, due to its one-of-a-kind nature and groundbreaking inclusion of hologram technology never replicated on any other Topps baseball card issue, high-grade specimens of this 1968 Roger Craig/Jerry Koosman card have become among the most valuable and desirable in the entire history of the hobby. In the years since, as millions upon millions of traditional cardboard and paper baseball cards have entered the collectibles marketplace, only a small number of the hologram cards are believed to still even exist in an unaltered near-mint condition.

While exact production print runs were never officially reported, experts estimate less than 500 copies of this pioneering hologram card were distributed by Topps in 1968 packs and sets before being pulled. As the years went by and information about its innovative design spread, demand and prices paid for high-quality specimens continued increasing exponentially among the most avid collectors. A PSA-graded NM-MT 8 copy was privately sold in 2001 for a then-unheard of amount of $35,000, demonstrating its legend and sought-after status.

As more advanced hologram applications were adopted by other industries throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Topps themselves would not incorporate another hologram image until 1991. That example paled in comparison to the unprecedented landmark that was the 1968 Roger Craig/Jerry Koosman dual hologram card that started it all. Despite decades having passed, it remains one of the most discussed and desirable examples of any brand of trading card due to its groundbreaking concept and application of emerging hologram technology for the mass consumer market during a pivotal time in both the fields of sports and collectibles.

Among paper memorabilia, only the ultra-rare 1909-11 T206 Honus Wagner and 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle rookie cards are considered to have greater historical sports collectibles significance. Each tiny surviving piece of the approximately 500 total copies of the 1968 Topps hologram card represents a crucial junction where the future possibilities of sports collectibles crossed paths with innovative technology. Its legendary status has only grown stronger with time, ensuring this pioneering one-year wonder from Topps’ 1968 set will continue captivating the imaginations of baseball card collectors for generations to come.

1989 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS VALUE LIST

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The 1989 Upper Deck baseball card set was the company’s first release and revolutionized the baseball card industry. The higher quality cardboard stock and attention to detail made Upper Deck cards a hot commodity when they were released over 30 years ago. While the excitement over Upper Deck has cooled since its debut, many of the rookie cards and stars from the 1989 set still hold significant value today.

One of the most valuable cards from the ’89 Upper Deck set is the Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card. Widely considered one of the best prospect phenoms in baseball history, Griffey lived up to the hype with a Hall of Fame career. His iconic Upper Deck rookie card in a PSA 10 Gem Mint condition can fetch over $10,000. Even well-centered Near Mint copies in PSA 9 holders sell for $2,000-3,000. Griffey was featured prominently in the initial packaging and marketing of Upper Deck cards, helping spur early interest and demand.

Other star rookie cards that still rank among the most valuable from 1989 Upper Deck include Frank Thomas, Jeff Bagwell, and Mark McGwire. All three players went on to have prolific MLB careers and earn spots in the Hall of Fame. A PSA 10 Gem Mint McGwire RC sells for around $3,500. Thomas and Bagwell gems around $2,000 apiece. In top grades of PSA 9 or BGS 9.5, their rookie cards trade hands for $800-1,200. Fellow future Hall of Famer Barry Larkin also had his rookie card debut in the ’89 Upper Deck set. High-grade Larkin RCs demand $400-600.

Two of the most expensive cards overall from 1989 Upper Deck are the Kirby Puckett and Nolan Ryan inserts. Only 50 copies of each were produced, making them true short-prints. A Puckett “Turn Back The Clock” insert in pristine condition sold at auction in 2018 for $18,660. High-end Nolan Ryan “No-Hitters” inserts reach $5,000-8,000. The base versions of Puckett and Ryan are still valued highly as well. Puckett is $150-250 in PSA 9 and Ryan $100-150.

Other star players whose base rookie or traded cards hold onto meaningful value include Roger Clemens ($150 PSA 9), Andy Van Slyke ($75 PSA 9), and Bryn Smith ($50 PSA 9). For Clemens, Van Slyke and Smith, their cards remain quite collectible as rare “pre-rookie” or true rookie cards issued prior to their more common 1990 releases. Gregg Olson, whose 1989 Upper Deck RC was the first card issued of the reliever-turned-starter, fetches $40-65 in top condition.

Beyond rookies, several key refractors and inserts carry four-figure valuations as well. The “Diamond Kings” parallels of Willie Mays, Hank Aaron and Ted Williams are each $1,000-1,500 gems. A Mike Schmidt “Record Breakers” refractor sold on Ebay last year for over $2,000. The “League Leaders” subsets highlighting batting champs Wade Boggs and stolen base king Vince Coleman can reach $800-1,200 pristine.

Many stars of the late 1980s and 1990s have collectible base cards too despite not being rookies in the ’89 Upper Deck set. A PSA 10 Griffey traded card sells for $150-250 depending on the uniform depicted. RCs aside, well-centered mint condition copies of Bo Jackson, Jose Canseco, Rickey Henderson, and Ozzie Smith command $50-100 each. For players more established then like Wade Boggs, Don Mattingly, and George Brett, their base cards earn $25-40 in top grades.

Lower-tier rookie cards that increased in popularity and price over the past decade include Tim Belcher ($20 PSA 9), Daryl Boston ($15 PSA 9), and Felix Jose ($10 PSA 9). Also finding new collector interest are the short-printed rookie variations like the black-bordered Frank Viola and off-center cut Tom Gordon, which can fetch $60-80 gems. The autographed cards inserted throughout packs at approximate 1-in-36,000 odds each sell between $300-500 when certified authentic.

While certain ’89 Upper Deck stars and short-prints inevitably dropped in value over the past 30+ years, the debut release remains one of the most important issues in the modern collecting era. Prices for Griffey, McGwire, Thomas, and others may never reach the peaks they saw during the 1990s Bull Market. But as one of the original ultra-premium baseball sets, 1989 Upper Deck cards—especially those housed in impeccable condition—continue holding significant monetary worth for informed collectors. Savvy investors would be wise keeping an eye on rookies, inserts and parallels from this groundbreaking cardboard pioneer.

91 92 UPPER DECK BASEBALL CARDS VALUE

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The 1991 and 1992 Upper Deck baseball card sets were groundbreaking issues that changed the hobby forever. Produced by the then fledgling Upper Deck company, these sets featured sharp photography, quality card stock, and innovative security features that made them stand out from Topps and Donruss offerings of the time. Due to their superior product and business model, 1991 Upper Deck became the best selling baseball card set of all-time.

While the glut of production from the early 1990s damaged the long-term value of the era’s cards overall, 1991 and 1992 Upper Decks still hold significance for collectors and have retained respectable values for their most desirable stars. Understanding the rarity and demand for different players from these classic sets can help you determine which cards are worth holding onto and potentially increasing in worth over time.

Let’s take a look at some of the top stars and their card values from the ’91 and ’92 Upper Deck sets to get an idea of what certain examples may be worth today if graded and preserved in high condition:

Ken Griffey Jr.: As one of the most iconic players and set cover athletes of the early ’90s Upper Deck era, Griffey Jr. rookie and base cards from 1991 are highly sought after by collectors. PSA 10 examples of his rookie card routinely sell for $1,000-2,000. Even well-centered PSA 9 copies can fetch $500-800. His ’92 base card holds value as well, with PSA 10s selling in the $150-300 range.

Barry Bonds: Bonds was already establishing himself as one of the game’s best players by 1991. His rookie card from that year remains quite valuable in top grades, with PSA 10 copies selling between $400-800. PSA 9 examples typically sell for $200-400. His ’92 base card isn’t as valuable but still holds value at $50-100 in PSA 10.

Cal Ripken Jr.: As arguably the biggest star of the early ’90s, Ripken’s cards hold steady value. His ’91 Upper Deck rookie card has sold for as much as $500 in PSA 10 condition, with PSA 9s around $200-300. His ’92 base card in a PSA 10 has sold for $100-200.

Derek Jeter: Jeter’s highly coveted rookie card came in the 1992 Upper Deck set. PSA 10 examples have sold for as much as $2,000, with most bringing between $1,000-1,500. Even PSA 9 Jeter rookies can sell for $500-800. This remains one of the most iconic and valuable modern rookie cards.

Chipper Jones: Jones’ stellar career and likable persona have made his 1991 Upper Deck rookie card a steady riser. PSA 10 examples now sell in the $400-600 range, with PSA 9s bringing $200-300. His ’92 base card holds less value but is still sought after.

Tom Glavine: The Hall of Fame lefty’s rookie card from the ’91 set holds value due to his accomplishments. PSA 10 copies have sold for $150-250, with most PSA 9s bringing $75-150. His ’92 base card is worth $20-40 graded PSA 10.

Other notable stars from the era like Frank Thomas, Greg Maddux, and Tony Gwynn have cards from these sets that can be worth grading and holding long-term if they receive high marks. Unless a card receives a PSA or BGS grade of 9 or 10, the value usually isn’t significant enough to justify the cost of slabbing.

For most common players, even mint condition base cards are only worth a few dollars. But there are exceptions, as error cards, photo variations, serial number parallels and other scarce variations can increase values dramatically depending on the specific card. For example, a serial numbered parallel of Chipper Jones’ rookie in a high grade could be worth hundreds due to its scarcity.

When considering 1991 or 1992 Upper Deck values, it’s also important to factor in the high-grade population reports from services like PSA. Sets from the early ’90s boom era were massively overproduced, so finding examples in pristine condition has become difficult over time. Population data helps determine true rarity. A card with a PSA 10 pop of only 50 copies, for example, would be significantly more valuable than a common parallel with a PSA 10 pop of 500.

While 1991 and 1992 Upper Deck baseball cards may not retain the same lofty values as their counterparts from the late 1980s, the classic rookie cards of stars like Griffey Jr., Bonds, Ripken, Jeter and others as well as select serial numbered and error cards can still hold long-term collecting and potential investment appeal – especially when preserved in top grades. For today’s savvy collector, discerning which specific examples from these groundbreaking sets possess the best combination of player performance, rarity and demand can uncover hidden gems still worth adding to your collection.

1991 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS GLOW BACK

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The 1991 Topps baseball card set was highly anticipated among collectors as it marked the 20th anniversary of the company’s iconic design and featured several star players. One of its most notable aspects was the inclusion of a “glow in the dark” feature for the first time.

Prior Topps releases had focused primarily on the photography and player information, but the 1991 series sought to take collector experiences to new levels with this glow-in-the-dark addition. It added an element of surprise, intrigue and childlike wonder that resonated strongly with both young and older fans. Within the industry, it was seen as an innovative risk that paid off tremendously in popularity and sales.

Topps had experimented with fluorescents previously on a much smaller scale, but wanted to really amp up the glow effect for the milestone 1991 edition. They worked extensively with specialty fluorescent ink suppliers to develop a pigment that would shine brightly under UV or black light exposure. Extensive testing was done on sampling cards to ensure the glow lasted for several minutes after charging and that the ink did not interfere with the cardstock or printing quality.

After many iterations, Topps found a glowing yellow-green formulation that met their requirements. All 792 cards in the base set were then printed with this special fluorescent ink, primarily on the borders but also highlighting certain on-card graphics and stats. The end result was dazzling – when charged, these areas would light up like miniature fireworks in the dark!

Collectors were delighted by the glow back feature, which heightened the card opening and viewing experience after turning off the lights. Kids especially loved hunting through their collections with a mini blacklight, making discoveries in the dark. It inspired imaginations and a sense of wonder about the players and their stats in new illuminated ways.

For Topps, it was also a marketing coup as glowing cardboard spread the word and increased interest. Pre-release teaser ads showed cards “magically” lighting up to stoke anticipation. Glowing samples at card shows wowed potential buyers. And glowing unopened wax packs on shelves beckoned collectors like glittering gems in a mine.

To tap into the 1991 excitement, many counterfeiters rushed to cash in as well. Glow quality, ink formulation and application on fakes were often noticeably inferior. The real Topps cards delivered a clean, even glow that lit up bright green-yellow without spots or streaks. Sketchy aftermarket copies were easy to spot, bolstering the appeal and cachet of the licensed product.

While initially planned as a one-year novelty, glowing borders proved so popular that Topps implemented variations of the concept for several subsequent seasons. The 1992 cards had smaller but still luminescent player names, numbers and logos. 1993 moved glowing to borders and gold foil stamping on premium cards. Later years incorporated more subtle glow accents.

The ’91 glow back phenomenon remained the most iconic of this experiment. Its border glow was the most vibrant, visible and unforgettable of the bunch. To this day, those shining yellow-green 1981 Topps cards retain a mystique among collectors as the originals that started it all. They still glow brightly to transport fans back to childhood nights exploring the cardboard wonders discovered in the dark.

Three decades later, the 1991 Topps set – especially high graded examples with strong intact glow – are highly coveted. They occupy a special place in the hearts of ’80s and ’90s kids who grew up with the bright blinking borders. Condition sensitive collectors prize examples with intact fluorescence above all else. The glow back cards sparked formative baseball memories and joy for so many; their unique luminescence has forever sealed them as one of the standout releases in collectibles history.

While fluorescent parallels and inserts now appear across modern sports product, the ’91 Topps edition was truly groundbreaking as the first glowing mainstream release. It took collector experiences to an entirely new level through an exciting technological innovation that changed the game. The bright glowing borders ignite fond nostalgia and still delight adults decades later, a testament to both Topps’ creative vision and the magic those phosphorescent cardboard slabs of history continue to hold.

BASEBALL CARDS BEAUMONT TX

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The History of Baseball Cards in Beaumont, Texas

Baseball cards have long been a part of American culture and a window into the past. In Beaumont, Texas, baseball cards trace the history of the sport in the region from the early 20th century to present day. While baseball has been played in Southeast Texas since the late 1800s, it was the advent of mass-produced baseball cards in the early 1900s that helped grow the popularity of the national pastime on a local level in Beaumont.

Some of the earliest baseball cards produced featured players from the minor leagues, giving Southeast Texas baseball fans their first glimpses of potential big leaguers who had played for local teams. In the early 1900s, Beaumont was home to minor league affiliates of major league clubs like the St. Louis Cardinals, Boston Red Sox, and New York Giants. Cards from sets like T206 and T207 immortalized players who had suited up for Beaumont teams in the Texas League during this era. Names like Mordecai Brown, Eddie Plank, and Rube Waddell still resonate with longtime Beaumont baseball historians thanks to their early baseball card appearances.

As the first half of the 20th century progressed, baseball cards mirrored the rise and fall of professional baseball teams in Beaumont. Sets from companies like Goudey, Play Ball, and Topps featured future Hall of Famers like Dizzy Dean and Ted Williams who spent time in their early careers in the minors with Beaumont clubs. Local card collectors could track hometown heroes through their progression up the minor league ladder with each new season and series of cards released. The decline of minor league baseball in Beaumont during World War II was reflected in fewer card selections of local alumni during that period.

In the post-war era as Beaumont began to boom economically thanks to the oil industry, minor league baseball returned to the area. The Beaumont Exporters of the Texas League in the late 1940s and 1950s rekindled local fans’ passion for America’s pastime. Iconic card sets like 1951 Bowman and 1953 Topps featured future major leaguers like Nellie Fox and Don Zimmer who played for Beaumont. As baseball cards became mainstream collectibles for kids across the United States, Southeast Texas youths added Exporters stars to their collections alongside icons like Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays.

Through the 1950s and 1960s, baseball cards chronicled Beaumont’s minor league squads and the major league stars of yesteryear who often spent their offseasons residing in the area. Icons like Satchel Paige and Roy Campanella were regularly seen at local ballfields coaching or playing in offseason exhibition games. Their familiar cardboard faces in sets maintained a local connection. When the Exporters and other Beaumont pro teams ceased operations by the late 1960s, baseball cards were some of the only remaining links to the city’s rich minor league history for aging local fans.

In the 1970s, baseball cards underwent a renaissance in popularity thanks to the rise of the hobby’s modern golden era of production from Topps and others. Icons of that decade like Nolan Ryan and Jeff Bagwell, both Texas natives, cut their teeth in the minor leagues with affiliates located throughout the Lone Star State, keeping Southeast Texas players and collectors engaged. Ryan’s early minor league cards in particular remain highly sought after by Beaumont-area card aficionados today.

Through the 1980s and 1990s, baseball cards continued chronicling major and minor leaguers with Southeast Texas ties, from Jeff Kent and Lance Berkman to hometown heroes like Little League World Series standout Danny Almonte. Modern rarities like the infamous 1989 Ken Griffey Jr. rookie card kept the baseball card collecting spark alive for a new generation of fans in Beaumont, passing the hobby’s torch. Today, vintage local card shows attract collectors seeking remnants of Beaumont’s rich baseball history, while present-day stars like Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa keeping area fans invested in the cardboard treasures still being produced.

After over a century since their inception, baseball cards remain inextricably tied to the story of America’s pastime in Beaumont, Texas. Through booms and busts, the cards have maintained recollections of local heroes and memories from a community’s love of baseball through thick and thin. Whether tracking past Exporters through dog-eared T206s or pulling a shiny Jose Altuve rookie from a fresh pack, baseball cards in Beaumont continue showcasing the present while preserving a rich history for future generations to enjoy.

THE MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM THE 1980s

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The 1980s were a transformative decade for baseball cards. Following a major resurgence in interest and skyrocketing values in the late 1970s, the 1980s saw the hobby explode in popularity. Speculation ran rampant, as thousands rushed to open unopened packs in hopes of hitting the next big rookie card. Major stars like Rickey Henderson, Roger Clemens, and Dwight Gooden burst onto the scene and their rookie cards immediately commanded premium prices.

While hundreds of iconic cards came out of the 1980s, some stand out as being significantly more valuable than others. Which 1980s baseball cards can fetch the highest prices today? Here are some of the most valuable and sought-after cards from the decade:

1986 Fleer Michael Jordan Baseball Card: While not strictly a baseball card, the Jordan baseball rookie is arguably the single most valuable card from the entire 1980s. Issued during Jordan’s short stint in minor league baseball before focusing fully on his NBA career, the Fleer card captured Jordan as a promising young prospect. Just over a decade later, Jordan had become a global icon and interest in his curious baseball past grew exponentially. In near-pristine condition, the ’86 Fleer Jordan has sold for over $100,000, making it one of the highest valued sports cards ever.

1988 Score Griffey Jr. Rookie: Arguably no player was more hyped as a prospect than Ken Griffey Jr. Coming up through the Mariners system. His rookie cards were snapped up immediately and interest has only grown over time. The 1988 Score is considered the premier Griffey rookie and has always commanded a premium due to its photo-quality looks. High-grade copies have sold for $40,000-50,000 in recent times, though condition-sensitive collectors are willing to pay more for pristine specimens.

1985 Fleer Update Roger Clemens Rookie: While the 1986 Fleer Clemens is his true rookie card, the ’85 Fleer Update is much scarcer due to a far smaller print run. Featuring a clean iconic photo of the Rocket’s windup, it captures Clemens in the midst of his breakout 1984 season. In near-mint to mint condition, examples have sold for $25,000-30,000. Even well-centered EX-MT copies command $10,000+. Scarcity and Clemens’ legendary career make this an elite card.

1989 Upper Deck Ken Griffey Jr.: Released during Griffey’s sophomore season, this stunning Upper Deck issue shows off the skills that would make Griffey a superstar. Its beautifully photographed horizontal format, sharp focus on Griffey, and the magic of the fledgling Upper Deck set it apart. High grades have sold for $15,000 and up. Those willing to settle for EX-MT condition can find cards in the $5,000 range.

1984 Donruss Joey Cora Rookie: Not a true superstar name, but the Cora rookie is notable for its massive scarcity. Only 10-20 packs of 1984 Donruss are believed to exist unopened today, making any intact rookies extremely rare. Cora showed promise early in his career too. As one of the rarest modern baseball cards in existence, examples have sold for over $10,000 when they surface.

1987 Topps Mark McGwire Rookie: When McGwire emerged with his massive home run prowess in the late 1980s, collectors scrambled to grab his elusive Topps rookie. High-grade copies remain extremely scarce and demand hasn’t waned due to McGwire’s place in history. Near-mint 87 Topps McGwires have topped $15,000 at auction. Even well-centered EX-MT condition cards fetch $5,000 or more due to scarcity. Any trace of centering issues causes a steep decline.

1986 Fleer Update Dwight Gooden Rookie: Many consider the ’86 Fleer Dwight Gooden to be the true rookie. But the scarcer Fleer Update issue, showing Gooden pitching for Team USA, yields even stronger prices due to rarity. Both Dwight Gooden’s dominance as one of the game’s best pitchers in the mid-80s and the Ultra-limited quantities of this card make high grades eye-wateringly expensive. Near-mint copies have changed hands for amounts approaching $15,000 when available.

1980 Topps Dave Parker Rookie: One of the premier stars of the late 1970s/early 80s, Parker entered the league in an era before most players had dedicated rookie cards. While the elusive 1979 Donruss Parker rookie is near-mythical, the 1980 Topps issue fulfills rookie card duties for most collectors. In pristine condition it can rival most true star rookies from the decade, with gem mint 10s bringing $4,500+. Even lower graded copies command $1,000+ due to Parker’s career success and the card’s scarce supply.

1988 Donruss Barry Bonds Rookie: Produced during Bonds’ ascendance into one of the game’s all-time great sluggers, his rookie cards never stayed on shelves long. The tougher-to-grade Donruss issue leads the way financially. High-end Mint 9 or Gem Mint 10 Bonds rookies have topped $3,500. Even well-centered Near Mint 8.5s find buyers around $1,500 today due to his hallowed home run records.

These represent some of the highest valued and most desirable baseball cards to emerge from the speculator frenzy of the 1980s. Many other stars had iconic rookie issues too, like Bo Jackson, Tom Glavine, and Randy Johnson. But the positional scarcity, captured players’ talents or the allure of unfulfilled potential puts the above cards into a class of their own for serious vintage collectors. While values have ebbed and flowed over the decades, strong cards from stars’ early years will likely always be in high demand.

TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS 2022 SERIES 1

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Topps Baseball Cards 2022 Series 1 – A Breakdown of the Highlights

Topps unveiled their 2022 Series 1 baseball card set in late January, kicking off another year of collecting the iconic cardboard. As the first major release of the new year from the legendary trading card manufacturer, Series 1 sets the tone for the rest of 2022. With 349 total cards and inserts, the set offers baseball fans both veteran and newcomers alike plenty to choose from. Let’s take a deeper look at some of the biggest highlights and chase cards from Topps Baseball Cards 2022 Series 1.

Rookie Phenoms

Every Series 1 set is anticipated for the talented crop of rookie cards it debuts. 2022 was no exception, headlined by Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco. Considered one of the top prospects in baseball, Franco is already making a strong case as a future superstar at just 21 years old. His prizm refractors and autographed parallels from Series 1 are among the most sought after new cards on the hobby market.

Joining Franco are rookies such as Detroit Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson and Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Gabriel Moreno. Torkelson was taken first overall in 2020 and looks ready to deliver on that lofty draft position. Moreno turned heads in his brief MLB audition late last season and figures to play a big role for Toronto going forward. Another notable rookie is Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Daulton Varsho, who put himself on the map with an impressive 2021 campaign.

Veteran Stars and Franchise Greats

While the rookies create excitement, no baseball card release would be complete without nods to the established stars and all-time greats currently in the game. Topps spotlighted the usual crop of superstars like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Ronald Acuña Jr. on their base cards. Veterans like Clayton Kershaw, Max Scherzer and Mookie Betts also received standard issue cards after strong 2021 seasons.

When it comes to honors parallels, Topps paid homage to Miguel Cabrera who crossed the 3,000 hit threshold last year. The Detroit Tigers slugger received three special “3,000 Hit Club” parallel card variations. Hall of Famers with career milestones in 2021 like Albert Pujols and Yadier Molina received similar Milestone Moment variations as well. Icons of the past like Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays made appearances through retro inserts too.

Short Prints and Popular Inserts

All modern baseball card sets come with a bevy of inserts focusing on different themes and variations. Series 1 was no exception as Topps blanketed the release with several popular inserts sure to excite collectors. Among the notable short prints and inserts were:

Hometown Heroes: Pays tribute to hometown stars through die-cut cards with embedded 3-D statues.

Golden Moments: Highlights iconic playoff performances frozen in gold parallels.

Tall Boys: Vertical card format highlights individual stats and accomplishments.

Decades Best: Pays homage to the greatest players of the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s in mini card form.

Stadium Club: High-end photorealistic parallels recreating iconic MLB ballparks.

Rainbow Foil Parallels: Select base cards receive a flashy multi-colored foil treatment.

Retired Numbers: Honors franchises’ all-time greats through numbers in the rafters design.

Diamond Kings: Fantasy-style parallels spotlight stars in fully illustrated uniform designs.

1992 Design: Celebrates the brand’s most iconic design through a 30th anniversary parallel insert.

Chase Cards and Parallels

To create intrigue at every collector level, Topps loaded 2022 Series 1 with several scarce parallel insert chase cards sure to tantalize the hobby. Some of the most coveted include:

Wander Franco Rainbow Foil Auto /199
Bobby Witt Jr. Negative /75
Julian Merryweather Auto Black /10
Miguel Cabrera Gold Legacy /70 (3,000 Hit Variation)
Steve Carlton Photo Negative Auto /99
Aaron Judge Marvel /50
Jesse Winker Blue Velvet /35
Max Scherzer Vault Variations Mini /15
Brandon Lowe Drawing Material Drawing Variation Auto /5

In addition, Topps continues to incorporate new technologies with subsets like Lenticular, Diamond, and Prism parallels incorporating flashy 3-D effects, refractors, and dimensional surfaces adding to 2022 Series 1’s array of premium chase cards.

Final Thoughts

As the standard initial checklist for any modern baseball season, Topps Series 1 offers something for all levels of collectors from casual fans to autograph hounds. With a mix of emerging stars, veteran standouts, franchise legends, and compelling inserts, there are no shortage of cards to choose from when beginning your 2022 collecting journey. While the short prints, specialized parallels and autographs of rookies like Wander Franco carry high price tags, the immense variety ensures there are still affordable cards for any budget. All in all, Topps delivered another stellar starting point for the upcoming campaign with 2022 Series 1.

So in summary, Topps Baseball Cards 2022 Series 1 served as an exciting introduction highlighting rookies ready to make an impact, the game’s superstars still dominating on the diamond, homages to icons of the past, and plenty of inserts old and new to please collectors of any interest or collecting level. With nearly 350 total cards and variations, it provided a bountiful checklist to kick off another year of America’s favorite pastime on cardboard.

EARL BASS BASEBALL CARDS FOR SALE ON COMC

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Earl Bass was an outfielder who played in Major League Baseball from 1953 to 1962. While he didn’t have a long or statistically impressive career, Earl Bass baseball cards have become quite collectible in recent years. One of the best places to find Earl Bass cards for sale is on the website COMC, or Collectors Universe Marketplace.

COMC is an online marketplace where collectors can buy, sell, and trade sports cards and other collectibles. The site has thousands of individual Earl Bass baseball cards available from dozens of different sellers. Bass played for several teams over his decade-long MLB career including the Philadelphia/Kansas City Athletics, Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Cleveland Indians. As a result, there are COMC listings for Earl Bass cards from a variety of card sets representing each team he played for.

Some of the most commonly found Earl Bass baseball cards on COMC include his rookie cards from 1953. In his rookie season with the Athletics, Bass appeared on cards from Topps and Bowman. The Topps 1953 #76 Earl Bass is one of his more famous and sought after rookie cards. In gem mint condition, this card can sell for over $1000. On COMC there are several raw copies available starting at around $30-50 depending on the condition. The 1953 Bowman #277 Earl Bass rookie is also available graded and ungraded.

Beyond his rookie cards, collectors can find Earl Bass’ cards from subsequent seasons as he moved between teams. There are 1954 Topps cards of him as an Athletic and Oriole since he was traded midseason. His 1955 and 1956 Topps cards show him as a member of the Chicago White Sox. Fans of the late 1950s Cleveland Indians can get Earl Bass cards from 1957 and 1958 Topps featuring him in a Tribe uniform. Even his final season cards from 1962 Topps as a Kansas City Athletic are available on COMC in low to high grades.

In addition to his standard rookie and annual issue cards from the 1950s, Earl Bass also has some interesting oddball and minor league issue cards that surface on COMC. One is the 1954 Bowman Color Kings card, which is a subset highlighting players in full color photos on the fronts. Bass received the #C18 card in the set. Other oddball options include various regional tobacco cards from the early 1950s before he reached the majors. Bass even has cards from his time in the minors with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Oakland Oaks organizations.

For collectors looking to build an entire Earl Bass baseball card collection on a budget, COMC provides an efficient way to acquire many of his different cards. Sellers will often have multiple copies of a given Bass card across various conditions, so there are choices at different price points. The site’s search and filter tools also make it simple to find exactly which Earl Bass cards are available at a given time. COMC verifies the authenticity and conditions of all cards too, removing risk for buyers.

Grading and encapsulating also increases certain Earl Bass card values, like his desirable 1953 Topps rookie. On COMC, collectors can find many of his cards already professionally graded by services like PSA and SGC. This protects the card surface and verifies its grade upfront. While a raw card may sell for $30-50, the same card in a PSA 6 holder could be $75-100. Higher grades like PSA 8 could reach $300-400 depending on the card and market at any given time.

Shipping and payment on COMC are also very buyer and collector friendly. Orders are shipped quickly in protective penny sleeves and toploaders. The site accepts all major credit cards, PayPal, and even direct bank transfers for payment. Their buyer protection policies and easy return process further remove risk. For serious Earl Bass collectors, COMC is arguably the best online marketplace to consistently find his complete set and high quality individual cards. With so much inventory from multiple sellers, it allows building a full Earl Bass collection over time.

While Earl Bass didn’t have huge baseball stats himself, his cards have developed quite a following with vintage baseball card collectors in recent years. For fans of the 1950s Athletics, White Sox, Orioles, and Indians, Earl Bass was a role player on their favorite teams. COMC gives today’s collectors access to a wide array of Earl Bass cards to choose from. Whether seeking his famous rookie cards or more obscure issues, COMC is a top resource for finding Earl Bass baseball cards to purchase. The site’s large selection, competitive prices, and buying/selling policies make it an excellent online destination for any Earl Bass card collection.

MOST VALUABLE BASEBALL CARDS FROM 1996

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The 1990s were a transformative decade for the baseball card industry. For the first time, ultra-premium insert sets pulled collector focus away from the standard base sets issued by the major companies like Topps, Fleer, and Upper Deck. In 1996 specifically, several parallel and short-print insert sets gained immense popularity that drives their card prices much higher today.

For collectors of 1996 baseball cards, one of the most coveted and valuable sets is the Upper Deck SP Authentic insert set. SP Authentic featured jersey swatch or memorabilia cards of the game’s top stars. Only one card was inserted per box of packs on average, making these extremely scarce. The rarest and most expensive SP Authentic card from ’96 is the Ken Griffey Jr. swatch card, serial numbered to only 75 copies. In gem mint condition, a Griffey SP Authentic routinely sells for over $10,000 today. Other SP Authentic superstars like Mark McGwire, Greg Maddux, and Cal Ripken Jr. can reach $2,000-5,000 graded and preserved perfectly.

Another ’96 Upper Deck insert series that consistently demands big money is Absolute Memorabilia. This set included dual swatch or autograph relic cards. The draw was that each player was represented by dual-relic parallels, increasing randomness and scarcity. rookie cards exist for Derek Jeter andChipper Jonesfeature dual swatches from their 1994 and 1993seasons. Their Absolute cards numbered under 100 copies sell for around $3,000-$5,000 today. The crown jewel though is arguably the Cal Ripken Jr. dual-relic card serial numbered to only 25 copies. Pristine examples have sold at auction for over $15,000.

For collectors looking at the standard ’96 Topps and Fleer base sets, extremely low-number parallel rookie cards tend to reign as the most valuable. The Alex Rodriguez rookie Pinnacle Refractors parallel from Topps are coveted, limited to only 25 copies each. An A-Rod Pinnacle Refractor in gem mint 10 grade is valued at a cool $10,000 today. Other 1996 rookies that command big dollars include the Chipper Jones Fleer Ultra Refractor (#/100), Derek Jeter Ultra Refractor (#/100), and Nomar Garciaparra Leaf Limited Platinum parallels (#/50). Graded mint examples often trade hands for $3,000-$5,000 each.

Outside of parallels and inserts, exceptionally rare error cards from 1996 also garner incredible collector attention and prices. One such anomaly is the multi-player error card produced by Fleer featuring Derek Jeter,Curtis Pride, and Ramon Martinez on the same card. Originally believed to be variations, experts now agree they were production mistakes. The Fleer multi-player errors are so unusual that mint condition specimens have been privately sold for over $20,000 each.

Perhaps the most unique 1996 releases though were the Private Stock and High Numbers parallel sets both produced by Upper Deck. The Private Stock parallels featured stark white borders and numbering under 100 copies. Key rookie Private Stocks like Nomar Garciaparra (#/99) andDerek Jeter (#/99) are valued around the $1,500-$3,000 range in top grades. But one of the rarest baseball cards ever created also came from Private Stock – theKen Griffey Jr. parallel serial numbered to only 1 copy. Little is known about its current location or valuation given its true one-of-a-kind status.

The Upper Deck High Number cards carried serials beyond the base set and were inserted at an even lower rate than parallels. Rookie High Numbers of Nomar (#707/1,000),Jeter (#621/1,000) and Chipper Jones (#557/1,000) typically sell for$800-$1,500 in pristine condition. But the most valuable ’96 High Number is the error proof Ken Griffey Jr. card numbered 144,151/1,000. It is essentially the final card produced by Upper Deck for that year. In a PSA/DNA Gem Mint 10 grade, it is valued by Beckett at over $10,000 unslabbed.

The insertion subsets, parallels, and production errors from the 1996 baseball card season created a new category of ultra-premium cards. While base rookies remain strong, it is the rarest parallel, swatch, and error cards involving stars like Griffey, Ripken, McGwire and prospects like Jeter and Nomar that bring the biggest money today – often in the range of $1,000 to well over $10,000 for pristine specimens. The scarce subsets like SP Authentic and Absolute Memorabilia elevated demand, while errors like the multi-player Fleer card added mystique. Overall, 1996 expanded what defines a highly valuable modern-era baseball card.

1997 TOPPS BASEBALL CARDS PRICING

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The 1997 Topps baseball card set was released at the start of the 1997 MLB season and contains cards for players and managers from all 30 major league teams. The set totals 792 cards including base cards, parallel inserts, rookie cards, and special parallel subsets. Over 25 years since its original release, the 1997 Topps set has developed a strong collector interest and cards from the set can sell for significant prices depending on player, rarity, and condition. Let’s take a closer look at the different categories of cards from the 1997 Topps set and examine typical current pricing.

The base card set consists of cards #1-792 depicting players, managers, and team checklists. Most base cards in near-mint to mint condition can be acquired for under $5, though some stars may fetch $10-20. Roster players in played condition often sell for $1 or less. A complete set in mint/near-mint condition on the secondary market usually goes for $150-250 depending on availability. The true value is in the short printed and rookie cards within the base set.

Some of the biggest stars and most valuable base cards from 1997 Topps include #1 Ken Griffey Jr. (est. $50-75 NM/MT), #97 Derek Jeter ($30-50 NM/MT), #250 Mike Piazza ($20-30 NM/MT), and #492 Larry Walker ($15-25 NM/MT). Other stars like Greg Maddux, Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Cal Ripken Jr. have prices in the $10-20 range. The true short prints within the base set command the highest fees. #753 Shane Reynolds and #758 Kevin Brown are notoriously difficult to find and can reach $100+ in top condition owing to their scarcity.

Moving beyond the base cards, the 1997 Topps set includes several parallel and insert subsets that drive interest from collectors. The popular Photo Print run features vibrant image snapshots of players on cards #PP1-PP100 and typically sells for $3-8 each. The Gold Medallion parallel set contains refractor-like parallels on gold card stock for stars. Examples include #GM1 Ken Griffey Jr. ($25-40), #GM4 Derek Jeter ($15-25), and #GM17 Mike Piazza ($10-15).

In terms of rookie cards, the 1997 Topps set featured future Hall of Famers Chipper Jones, Nomar Garciaparra, and Miguel Tejada. Chipper’s rookie #343 often prices near $20-30 in top shape while Tejada (#459) and Nomar (#500) reside more in the $10-15 range. Other notable rookies include Paul Konerko (#580), Jeff Weaver (#590), and Luis Castillo (#654) who command $5-10 each. A real treasure would be the elusive #1 Chipper Jones Gold Medallion rookie parallel, estimated north of $300 for a pristine example.

Another driver of 1997 Topps prices is the coveted refractor parallel subset. Inserted randomly in packs 1-in-every-100 packs or so, the refractors feature translucent images on special card stock and added tremendously to the excitement of the release. Top stars like #141 Ken Griffey Jr. Refractor and #185 Derek Jeter Refractor bring $75-100+ in top condition due to their scarcity and appeal to collectors. Other stars and notables like #40 Cal Ripken Jr. ($50-75), #169 Darren Daulton ($30-50), and #213 Cecil Fielder ($20-30) round out the premium refractor pricing.

Beyond the base set, parallels, and refractors, 1997 Topps featured several special subsets that garner collector interest. The Farewell Tribute subset focuses on retired Hall of Famers like #FT1 Nolan Ryan ($5-10), #FT6 Ozzie Smith ($4-8), and #FT12 Kirby Puckett ($3-6). The Medieval subset features players in knight-like armor across cards #M1-M100 with star parallels like Gold Medallion, Photo Print, and Refractor highly sought after. The Turn Ahead the Clock subset imagines players uniforms and technology of the future across #TAC1-TAC100 packs early adopter enthusiasm.Prices for these futuristic visuals fall in the $3-8 range per base card.

True star power, scarcity, and parallel inserts drive the high-end prices of 1997 Topps. Complete base sets, stars, and popular rookies can be acquired fairly inexpensively while short prints, refractors, and premier parallels command heavy premiums. The combination of popular players, innovative inserts, and decades of nostalgia have cemented 1997 Topps as a revered and valuable release for collectors old and new. With prices only forecast to appreciate over time, the 1997 Topps set remains an enticing investment for those seeking affordable vintage cardboard riches.